Researcher in Food System Sustainability

This new role as a Researcher in Food System Sustainability will support the ongoing Delivering Sustainable Food Systems project, funded by Research England as part of the South Yorkshire Sustainability Centre's Theme 2: Food Systems & Environmental Restoration. You will work alongside two existing researchers to explore and propose practical interventions that help food companies improve their energy efficiency and overall sustainability.

You will apply systems thinking, sustainability assessment methodologies, and industry engagement approaches to identify key areas for improvement and work with companies to implement viable solutions.

You will have a strong understanding of sustainability in food production, including knowledge of energy efficiency strategies and industrial sustainability interventions. Experience working with food manufacturing businesses and familiarity with data analysis and carbon footprint reduction would be advantageous. Additionally, knowledge of electrical, power, and control engineering or food engineering would be very beneficial.

You will have a master’s degree (MSc) in a relevant discipline such as sustainability science, environmental engineering, food systems, energy management, electrical engineering, or control systems engineering. Candidates with strong analytical, problem-solving, and research skills relevant to the project scope are encouraged to apply.

You will work with colleagues as part of a team to solve real-world challenges in the digitalisation of food manufacturing, contributing to the writing of research papers, reports, grants and bids, and quantitative and/or qualitative data collection and analysis.

This is an excellent opportunity for you to further develop your research skills and gain invaluable, practical research experience working with staff in a varied and vibrant research environment.

The department

Sheffield Hallam emphasises both fundamental and applied research. The University currently has 15 research centres and institutes, many of national and international renown, including the Advanced Food Innovation Centre (AFIC). AFIC is committed to problem-led, collaborative Research, Innovation, and Knowledge Exchange, delivering impactful solutions for sustainable and healthier food systems.

Located at the Olympic Legacy Park, AFIC reflects Hallam’s mission to enable healthier lives through preventative health and drive future economies through knowledge exchange and enterprise.

We offer a diverse range of benefits and opportunities to pursue a rewarding and fulfilling career in a supportive environment. 

You will be contractually enrolled into the Teachers’ Pension Scheme (TPS) – one of the largest and most generous defined benefit pension schemes in the country.

Find out more about the TPS

If you are, or have been, a recent member of the Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS) directly prior to joining us, you can choose to opt out of the TPS and remain in the USS. Please contact the Pensions team to discuss options available.

Sheffield Hallam welcomes applications from all candidates irrespective of age, pregnancy and maternity, disability, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, religion or belief, or marital or civil partnership status.

The role is not eligible for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker route so if you are an international applicant, you will need to ensure you have an appropriate visa to evidence the necessary right to work in the UK.

We welcome applications for job-share, part-time and flexible working arrangements

Accessibility

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