Research Assistant - NNZA IMPACTS

Westfield State University; North East; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research institution in North East England is seeking a motivated researcher to join the IMPACTS project, focusing on AI-driven datacentres and microgrid optimisation. The role requires expertise in power systems and AI applications and offers the opportunity to contribute to impactful research within a collaborative environment. This position is fixed-term for 6 months, with an expected start date of September 1, 2025.

Qualifications

• Expertise in power systems and optimisation.
• Experience with AI applications in energy.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to the IMPACTS project by applying advanced optimisation techniques.
• Support decision-making in microgrid design and operation.
• Assist in the development of research ideas and protocols.

Skills

Optimisation techniques

AI applications in energy

Power systems expertise

Education

PhD in relevant field

Graduate degree

Job description

The Role

We are seeking a highly motivated researcher - either a Grade 7 PhD holder, or a Grade 6 graduate - to join the IMPACTS project, funded by the Northern Net Zero Accelerator. The project addresses the growing energy demands of AI-driven datacentres by developing an intelligent platform for the design and optimisation of resilient, low-carbon microgrids. The role involves applying advanced optimisation techniques and AI-based models to support decision-making in microgrid design and operation.

Working in collaboration with a leading global mission critical firm of engineers, this project offers the opportunity to deliver tangible impact by integrating academic innovation with industrial challenges.

This is an exciting opportunity for a researcher with expertise in power systems, optimisation, or AI applications in energy, to contribute to a high-impact project with strong potential for commercialisation.

In both cases, the post-holder is employed to work on research/a research project which will be led by another colleague. Whilst this means that the post-holder will not be carrying out independent research in his/her own right, the expectation is that they will contribute to the advancement of the project, through the development of their own research ideas/adaptation and development of research protocols.

This post is fixed term for 6 months as the project is time and funding limited.

Successful applicants will, ideally, be in post by 1^st September 2025.