Research Fellow in Market Design for Citizen-led Flexibility

University of Salford (Personnel); Salford; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative educational institution in the UK seeks a talented Postdoctoral Research Fellow to drive research on sustainable energy systems. This role involves designing local energy markets, conducting data analysis, and collaborating across the UK and EU. Candidates should hold a PhD in a relevant field and possess strong research skills in areas like blockchain and local energy communities. Benefits include a competitive salary, excellent pension scheme, and a flexible working environment.

Benefits

Competitive salary and pension scheme

32 days leave plus holidays

Flexible working options

Qualifications

• Strong track record in local energy and flexibility markets research.
• Experience with blockchain applications and the sharing economy.
• Knowledge of microeconomic theory and market structures.

Responsibilities

• Lead design of local energy markets tailored to community needs.
• Conduct simulation and data-driven analysis.
• Manage research activities and contribute to outputs.

Skills

High-quality research

Interdisciplinary research

Communication skills

Project management

Programming (Python, MATLAB)

Education

PhD in Electricity Markets, Economics, Electrical Engineering, or related field

Job description

Salford Business School is seeking a talented and motivated Postdoctoral Research Fellow to join our interdisciplinary research team working at the forefront of sustainable energy systems. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a high-impact project focused on flexibility modelling and grid impact optimisation, supporting the transition to sustainable cities and societies.

You will be part of a vibrant, international research environment that values innovation, collaboration, and real-world impact. Working under the leadership of Professor Vahid Vahidinasab, Chair in Sustainability, you will play a key role in shaping the research agenda of the Salford Centre for Research on Self-sustaining Systems and Societies. This is a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of energy transition, supporting the development of citizen-led solutions that harness the potential of grid-edge technologies such as bidirectional electric vehicles, V2X systems, and demand-side flexibility. You will be part of a collaborative, interdisciplinary team working across the UK and EU, with access to real-world pilot sites and a network of academic, industry, and community.

The Role:

As a Research Fellow, you will lead and support the design, development, and deployment of local energy and flexibility markets tailored to community and neighbourhood needs. Your responsibilities will include conducting simulation and data-driven analysis, managing research activities, and contributing to both academic and non-academic outputs. You will represent the project in technical discussions and international meetings, ensuring effective knowledge exchange and impact delivery.

We hope you will bring :

We are looking for a highly motivated researcher with a PhD in Electricity Markets, Economics, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a closely related field. You should have a strong track record in high-quality research, particularly in areas such as local energy and flexibility markets, blockchain applications, and the sharing economy. Experience in interdisciplinary research, working with external stakeholders, and conducting evaluation studies is essential.

You will bring demonstrable knowledge of microeconomic theory, market structures, game theory, and programming skills (e.g. Python, MATLAB), alongside a deep understanding of policy and market issues related to local energy communities in the UK and EU.

We value individuals who can communicate complex ideas clearly to diverse audiences, work both independently and collaboratively, and are willing to travel internationally. Strong project management skills and a commitment to inclusive, impactful research are key to success in this role.

What's in it for you?

• Competitive salary and excellent pension scheme.
• An impressive 32 days leave, plus bank holidays, additional time off at winter break, and the opportunity to buy even more!
• Flexible working - we support a culture of flexible and agile working, to help you find the right balance.

Interviews will be held on 12th, 15th and 16th December 2025.

JOB DESCRIPTION