Senior Research Fellow in Spatiotemporal Population Modelling

NERC ETHOS project: Co-developed Environmental Solutions to Mitigate the Impact of Temperature Extremes on Vulnerable Populations

Full Time Fixed Term (12 months)

We are delighted to welcome applications for a research post in the area of spatial and demographic modelling as part of the ETHOS project, funded by the National Environmental Research Council. The new funding is a collaborative project between University of Southampton, University of Newcastle, Kings College London, University of Northumbria and Newcastle, Newcastle Upon Tyne Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, and Forest Research. 

The project is led by Professor Justin Sheffield and aims to improve understanding of temperature–health relationships in vulnerable but under-evidenced population groups and co-develop environmental/community-based interventions that reduce risks under current and future climates. The impacts of extreme temperatures is well-researched in general, but less is known about how impacts differ across the diversity of the UK population, and how this can be expected to change in future due to climate change and demographic shifts.

This post sits within an ETHOS work package which aims to model the population at risk under current and future scenarios. The impact of extreme temperatures depends on the characteristics and geographical location of population affected. Therefore, this work package will estimate and project the size, structure, vulnerability, and location of the UK population at various spatial and temporal scales, such that the current and future risks of extreme temperature events can be better understood. In particular, the post-holder will develop methodology to produce estimates and projections of the UK population by age, sex and health status based on the best available data. 

The work is led by Dr Jason Hilton, Dr Samantha Cockings and Prof Felix Eigenbrod. This research position will be based in the Department of Social Statistics and Demography, but the post holder will develop working relationships with colleagues in the School of Geography and Environmental Sciences. 

To be successful in this role you will have a PhD (or equivalent professional qualifications and experience) with a strong statistical or mathematical component. Essential attributes for the role are: experience in statistical modelling; proficiency in the use of Python, R or other equivalent; the ability to plan work independently and as part of a team; and the ability to write research presentations and papers. Additionally, knowledge and experience of working with high volumes of geospatial data and knowledge of Bayesian statistical methods would be an advantage.

The School of Economic, Social and Political Sciences is committed to promoting equality and diversity and holds an Athena SWAN Bronze award demonstrating this commitment. We strongly encourage applications from candidates from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic communities, people who identify as LGBTQ+, people with disabilities and those from poorer/less educationally advantaged backgrounds.

As part of our commitment to supporting our research community we are open to flexible working. We give full consideration to applicants that wish to work flexibly including part-time and those who have taken a career break. We also are proud to recently have been awarded the Race quality Charter Bronze award, where we have been commended for our commitment to improve race equality across the University community.

Informal enquiries may be addressed to J.D.Hilton@soton.ac.uk.

Interviews: Early March 2025

Position available: 01/04/2025 earliest

Advert information