Research Associate (P-LNZ systems modelling) (KP13311)

University of Bath; Bath; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution in Bath seeks a Research Associate to develop a people-led approach to Net Zero. The role involves creating system models, engaging with stakeholders, and publishing research findings. Ideal candidates will have a PhD or equivalent experience, possess strong communication skills, and be familiar with systems modelling. The position offers various benefits, including professional development opportunities and a family-friendly workplace.

Benefits

Free counselling services

Cycle to work scheme

Electric vehicle salary sacrifice scheme

Staff discount at Team Bath gym

Generous pension schemes

Discretionary annual leave

Professional development opportunities

Relocation allowance

Visa reimbursement

Qualifications

• Hold a PhD or equivalent experience.
• Familiarity with qualitative, quantitative, and/or mixed systems modelling.
• Understanding of Net Zero and its implications.

Responsibilities

• Create system models for partner organizations.
• Contribute to research publications and grant applications.
• Collaborate across disciplines to support Net Zero goals.

Skills

Systems modelling

Communication skills

Interdisciplinary collaboration

Research quality

Fieldwork readiness

Education

PhD in a relevant discipline

Job description

The fundamental question of this project being - how we can develop a people-led approach to Net Zero, to assist with a resilient, fair and enduring transition. Our Vision is to deliver a people-led, practical, systems-based approach, which enables organisations, business and industry to decarbonise quickly, efficiently, and productively. Research to date has demonstrated that people are key to any change, be that digitalisation or net zero. Building on our expertise, where we have created practical, adoptable tools which demonstrate success is powered by people, our research is harnessing this power with a focus on People-Led Net Zero (P-LNZ). The successful candidate will be able to undertake whole life modelling and/or life cycle assessment, and play a part in the people-led transdisciplinary team where our research is co‑created with our end users, to deliver impactful research. The underpinning focus of the research will be on people‑led systems, whether for digitalisation/net‑zero/or both. These are not mutually exclusive. Duties will include.

Responsibilities

• Create system models usable by and for organisations.
• Ability to work across disciplines and create models to be adopted by current and future partners.
• Determine opportunities and empower our partners in achieving their Net‑Zero goals where everyone benefits.
• Write‑up results of research and contribute to the publication.
• Identify sources of funding and aid with preparing research grants.
• As a member of Research Staff at the University of Bath, you will be encouraged to take up a minimum of 10 days professional development pro rata per year.
• A lower grade offer may be made (Grade 6) with comparable reduction in responsibilities and amendment in job title to Research Assistant, if a suitable applicant cannot be found to fill the Grade 7 position. Applicants will need to be within six months of their course completion date and will be promoted to Research Associate once their PhD has been awarded.

This role is offered on a full time (36.5 hours per week) fixed term for 36 months from March 2026.

For an informal conversation about the role, please contact Linda Newnes (Professor) on [e-mail].

Qualifications

• Hold a PhD in a relevant discipline, or have equivalent experience.
• Familiarity with systems modelling – qualitative, quantitative and/or mixed.
• Understanding of Net Zero.
• Experience with working across disciplines; this is a transdisciplinary team with many disciplines working towards a common goal, and a keenness to learn from and work with multiple disciplines is essential.
• Communication skills to engage with internal and external stakeholders. The research has live test cases, and the successful candidate will have to work and communicate with experts and non‑expert stakeholders.
• Research quality is key; we expect applicants to publish in peer‑reviewed journals.
• Evidence of the ability to provide clear, concise reports.
• Be comfortable with presenting your research, vision and activities to a wide range of audiences.
• Ability to travel, with adequate notice and effective support, to undertake test‑case field work, present your work at conferences and engage with Centre meetings. We are inclusive in our approach and recognise people have varying needs and responsibilities – please let us know if you need support.

Benefits

• Free counselling services through Health Assured.
• Cycle to work scheme.
• Electric vehicle salary sacrifice scheme.
• Staff discount at Team Bath gym.
• Staff discounts on postgraduate tuition fees.
• Staff discount on language courses.
• Generous employer contributory pension schemes.
• Generous annual leave allowance with an additional 5 discretionary days.
• A wide range of personal and professional development opportunities including Apprenticeships, LinkedIn Learning and more.
• Free entry to the Holburne Museum in Bath.
• Local discounts and more.
• A family‑friendly workplace.
• An excellent reward package that recognises the talents of our diverse workforce.
• Relocation allowance.
• Visa reimbursement and interest‑free loan to help with the cost of some immigration expenses.

Additional Information

We are committed to continually expanding our benefits to better support you and enhance your experience with us. Find out more about our benefits.