Research Fellow - School of Chemical Engineering - 906365 - Grade 7

Energy Vault; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 36,000 - 46,000; Part time

Job summary

A leading university seeks a part-time Research Fellow to drive research in AI applications for renewable energy systems. This role is part of a vibrant community focused on cutting-edge research, collaboration with policymakers, and promoting sustainable energy technologies.

Qualifications

• Experience in applying and developing machine learning algorithms.
• A track record in research publications is expected.
• Ability to communicate complex information clearly.

Responsibilities

• Plan and carry out research using appropriate methodologies.
• Develop research objectives and proposals.
• Disseminate research findings through publications.

Skills

Analytical skills

Machine learning algorithms

Team working

Communication skills

Education

PhD or equivalent in relevant research area

Job description

Description

Position Details

School of Chemical Engineering

Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UK

Full time starting salary is normally in the range £36,130 to £45,413 with potential progression once in post to £48,149

Grade: 7

Part time (7.5 hours per week)

Fixed Term contract up to May 2026

Closing date:15th June 2025

Background

We are seeking an ambitious Research Fellow to work on renewable energy systems and AI. You will join the Birmingham Energy Institute, a vibrant community of colleagues working on cutting edge research. This is an opportunity to drive excellent research in AI applications, which enable greater use of renewable energy into the UK energy systems.

Role Summary

This is a part time role, 0.1FTE. The activities of this role will support development of future proposals for funding, into AI for renewable energy.

You will consider ways in which the integration of machine learning algorithms might support the wider integration of, and uptake of, renewable energy technologies for particular use cases and considering a variety of perspectives (technical/policy/social/economic).

You will have the opportunity to work with renowned experts across various disciplines related to the UKRI-funded Supergen Network Plus on AI for Renewable Energy (SuperAIRE). You will also collaborate with different regional and national policymakers and stakeholders, including renewable energy operators, utilities, Tyseley Energy Park, OFGEM, and DESNZ.

The experience you gain in the role will give you awareness of the current and future needs of AI and renewable energy, including technical, business, and regulatory aspects.

You are expected to work closely with other research staff working within the SuperAIRE, particularly the Early Career Researcher community. You will also be required to communicate with the external project partners (including senior policy makers), and to collaborate on the development of future directions for this research activity. You will need to ensure delivery of outputs such as a future proposal, scientific journals, as well as activities which lead to impact.

Main Duties

To plan and carry out research, using appropriate methodology and techniques. This will include:

• Develop research objectives and proposals, with assistance of a mentor if required
• Analyse and interpret data and models, including contribution to new techniques and methods
• Present high quality findings in publications and conference proceedings, and to project partners
• Supervise students on research-related work
• Contribute to the research-related activities, and administration, across the School, and Birmingham Energy Institute
• Promote equality and value diversity, by acting as a role model, and by fostering an inclusive working culture
• Contribute to writing bids for research funding
• Apply knowledge in a way which develops new intellectual understanding
• Disseminate research findings for publication, research seminars etc
• Contribute to developing new models, techniques and methods
• Undertake management/administration arising from research
• Contribute to enterprise, business development and/or public engagement activities of manifest benefit to the College and the University, often under supervision of a project leader

Person Specification

• A PhD (or equivalent) relevant to the research area
• A growing track record of research publications
• Experience of communicating complex information clearly
• Experience of team working, particularly to co-ordinate own work with others in the team, to avoid conflict or duplication of effort
• Competency in applying and/or developing and devising machine learning algorithms in an energy context
• Ability to assess research resource requirements, and use resources effectively, to plan and manage research activity
• Strong analytical skills
• Understanding of, and ability to contribute to, broader management/administration processes
• Knowledge of how to actively ensure that those with protected characteristics are treated equally and fairly

Informal enquiries to Claire Moran, email: [e-mail]

We believe there is no such thing as a 'typical' member of University of Birmingham staff and that diversity in its many forms is a strength that underpins the exchange of ideas, innovation and debate at the heart of University life. We are committed to proactively addressing the barriers experienced by some groups in our community and are proud to hold Athena SWAN, Race Equality Charter and Disability Confident accreditations. We have an Equality Diversity and Inclusion Centre that focuses on continuously improving the University as a fair and inclusive place to work where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. We are also committed to sustainability, which is a key part of our strategy. You can find out more about our work to create a fairer university for everyoneon our website.