Research Associate in Agricultural Systems Modelling

University of Reading; Reading; Hybrid; GBP 28,000 - 35,000; Part time

Job summary

The University of Reading is seeking a part-time Research Associate in Agricultural Systems Modelling for a 24-month UKRI-funded project. This role involves collaborating with stakeholders to develop innovative modelling tools that support sustainability in farming. Candidates should possess strong modelling skills and a relevant postgraduate degree.

Benefits

Flexible and remote working

Qualifications

• PhD (or near completion) in a relevant field is required.
• Strong skills in LCA and LP methods essential.
• Experience in communicating complex ideas to non-specialists.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with stakeholders to design models for farm and policy decisions.
• Apply LCA and LP methods for trade-off simulations across goals.
• Contribute to workshops, publications, and funding proposals.

Skills

Modelling skills

Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)

Linear Programming (LP)

Software proficiency (R, Python, GAMS)

Complex idea communication

Education

PhD or postgraduate degree in relevant field

Job description

This is a Part time, Fixed term role. Closing date: 23:59 on 30th June 2025.

Applications from job seekers who require sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications. However, non-UK candidates who do not already have permission to work in the UK should note that by reference to the applicable SOC code for this role, sponsorship will not be possible under the Skilled Worker Route. There is further information about this on the UK Visas and Immigration Website.

Join our world-leading School of Agriculture, Policy and Development and help shape sustainable futures in food and farming.

We are seeking a Research Associate in Agricultural Systems Modelling (0.5 FTE, fixed-term for 24 months) to join the Agri-Food Economics and Marketing department. This exciting UKRI-funded role will support the Grassland Resilience for Net Zero project, co-developing innovative modelling tools that combine Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Linear Programming (LP) with participatory research approaches.

You will:

• Collaborate with diverse stakeholders to co-design robust models that inform farm and policy decision-making;
• Apply Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Linear Programming (LP) methods to simulate trade-offs and synergies across environmental, economic, and social goals;
• Contribute to workshops, publications, and the future funding pipeline.

You will have:

• A PhD (or near completion) or postgraduate degree in a relevant field;
• Strong modelling skills (e.g., LCA, LP, systems modelling) and software proficiency (e.g. R, Python, GAMS);
• Experience communicating complex ideas to non-specialist audiences and working across disciplinary boundaries.

This role offers flexible and remote working, access to professional

Interview date: TBC

Contact Name: Laurence Smith

Contact Job Title: Associate Professor in Agricultural Systems

Contact Email address: [e-mail]

Alternative Contact Name: Tom Staton

Alternative Contact Job Title: Postdoctoral Research Associate in Agroforestry Systems

Alternative Contact Email address: [e-mail]

The University is committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce, supports the gender equality Athena SWAN Charter and the Race Equality Charter, and champions LGBT+ equality. We are a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2). Applications for job-share, part-time and flexible working arrangements are welcomed and will be considered in line with business needs.