13506- Research Associate in Human-Centred Engineering for Climate Resilience

University of Edinburgh; City of Edinburgh; On-site; GBP 41,000 - 49,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK university is seeking a Research Associate to conduct transdisciplinary research on how engineering can effectively respond to climate change. The role involves collaboration across various disciplines and with external partners to produce research that integrates social values and environmental priorities. Ideal candidates will have a PhD or equivalent experience in relevant fields and a strong research track record. This position is full-time and fixed-term for up to 24 months, offering a dynamic and supportive environment to advance impactful engineering practices.

Qualifications

• PhD in a related field or equivalent industrial experience.
• Experience in climate-related or socially impactful research.
• Ability to engage stakeholders in research.

Responsibilities

• Lead transdisciplinary research on engineering responses to climate change.
• Collaborate with external partners to co-produce impactful research.
• Shape a cutting-edge research agenda within a supportive environment.

Skills

PhD in Engineering, Environmental Science, Social Science or related field

Proven research track record in climate-related fields

Experience working across disciplines

Strong communication skills

Ability to work independently

Job description

Grade UE07: £41,064.00‑£48,822.00 per annum
School of Engineering, College of Science & Engineering
Institute for Infrastructure and Environment
Full time: 35 hours per week
Fixed Term: up to 24 months

The Opportunity

We are looking for a Research Associate to lead transdisciplinary research exploring how engineering can better respond to climate change by integrating social values, lived experience, and environmental priorities into design and decision‑making. You will build on knowledge emerging from Failure Modes of Engineering activities, collaborating across disciplines and with external partners to co‑produce research that advances equitable, resilient, and context‑sensitive engineering practice in response to climate disruptions. You will also join a dynamic, supportive and interdisciplinary environment within Failure Modes of Engineering (FeME). FeME offers opportunities to shape a cutting‑edge research agenda with real‑world impact and to collaborate with researchers, practitioners and communities across the UK and internationally. FeME is a Network Plus project funded by EPSRC, and a collaboration between the Universities of Edinburgh, Glasgow and Heriot‑Watt. We have funding for 3 years to expand and nurture a network for researchers and practitioners working on these important challenges.

Your skills and attributes for success

• PhD in Engineering, Environmental Science, Social Science or related field linked to climate change, or equivalent industrial experience
• Proven research track record in climate‑related, socially impactful, or engineering‑focused fields
• Experience working across disciplines and engaging stakeholders or communities in research
• Strong communication and publication skills, with the ability to reach diverse audiences
• Ability to work independently, manage priorities, and collaborate effectively within a team