Research Associate for Circular Economy and Bioenergy Innovation

Location: Imperial South Kensington Campus

About the role:

This role will work within the CSSBOOST project, which focuses on developing Circular Systemic Solutions (CSS) within a digital ecosystem for regions and cities, and the CRONUS project, which emphasizes bioenergy innovation with carbon capture and utilization techniques. Both projects aim to enhance EU decarbonization and circular economy goals.

What you would be doing:

This role is designed for a researcher dedicated to advancing circular economy systems and bioenergy innovation through the CSSBOOST and CRONUS projects. You will contribute to frameworks for circular systemic solutions and sustainable bioenergy within virtualized and bio-based ecosystems, leveraging advanced digital tools, lifecycle assessments, and environmental impact metrics.

What we are looking for:

• Hold a PhD in sustainability, environmental engineering, circular economy, mechanical engineering, environmental economics, industrial engineering, environmental science or a closely related discipline, or equivalent research, industrial or commercial experience*
• Practical experience in research focused on circular economy, bioenergy systems, or resource-efficient technologies.
• Demonstrable expertise in lifecycle assessment (LCA) and greenhouse gas (GHG) metrics, particularly in the context of circularity and sustainability frameworks.
• Ability to conduct a detailed review of recent literature
• Ability to communicate complex concepts effectively to diverse audiences, including policymakers and industrial partners.

What we can offer you:

• The chance to work on pioneering projects like CSSBOOST and CRONUS, tackling real-world challenges in circular economy, bioenergy innovation, and sustainable industrial systems.
• The opportunity to be part of a dynamic and multidisciplinary team at Imperial College London, engaging with experts across environmental engineering, digital tools, and lifecycle assessments to drive impactful research.
• A vibrant and inclusive workplace culture that promotes innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning, with ample opportunities for professional growth.
• Development of project management and leadership skills through coordinating small research teams, managing project milestones, and collaborating with a diverse group of stakeholders from academia, industry, and government.
• Access to state-of-the-art facilities and digital technologies, including hybrid digital twins, cognitive digital ecosystems, and advanced analytics for environmental monitoring and decision support.
• High-level involvement in EU-funded projects, offering extensive networking opportunities and international exposure to multidisciplinary, cross-sectoral research partnerships.
• Opportunities to publish in leading academic journals, present findings at international conferences, and contribute to decision-support frameworks that influence policy and industry standards.
• A sector-leading salary and remuneration package, extensive training programs, and career development resources to help you achieve your professional goals.

Further Information

Please refer to the job description for full details and essential requirements for the post.

This is a fixed term post for 1 year.

For informal enquiries about the post please contact:

Professor Evina Katsou on   e.katsou@imperial.ac.uk.

For queries regarding the recruitment process please contact:

Briony Webb on b.webb@imperial.ac.uk.

*Candidates who have not yet been officially awarded their PhD will be appointed as Research Assistant.

We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applications from all backgrounds and disabilities. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable adjustments to participate in the interview process and to perform crucial job functions, as well as other support including staff networks. Please contact us to request accommodation.

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