Senior Research Economist - Multi-Scale Economic Modelling

NICS; Belfast; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A government research body in Belfast is seeking a qualified researcher to lead projects in agricultural and environmental economics. The role involves developing economic models, securing funding, and collaborating with various stakeholders to inform policy development. Candidates should possess a PhD in Economics, experience in research publication, and strong communication skills. The position offers opportunities for professional development and contribution to international research networks.

Qualifications

• A PhD in Economics or related field with post-doc experience in agricultural or environmental economics.
• Demonstrable funding acquisition skills and experience working with various funders.
• Experience in publishing peer-reviewed research articles.

Responsibilities

• Lead and support research projects on agricultural policy challenges.
• Develop economic models for policy evaluation.
• Communicate research findings through reports and conferences.

Skills

Economic modelling

Research communication

Leadership

Collaboration with stakeholders

Education

PhD in Economics

Degree in Economics

Job description

Researchers within the Economics Research Branch investigate a wide range of topics related to food production, natural capital resources and the rural economy drawing on several socioeconomic disciplines, and utilising quantitative and qualitative methodologies. Outputs, advice and engagement inform agricultural, environmental and rural policy development, and industry decision-making. Research is executed across cross-cutting programmes providing complementary perspectives on key challenges facing the food system (including producer and consumer behaviour change), economic linkages across sectors and regions, international trade, farm business and household dynamics, and the natural environment.Research undertaken in the branch is supported by a variety of funding sources, including AFBI’s sponsor department DAERA, as well as UK Research Councils and European research programmes.We are actively involved in cross-disciplinary work through collaboration with other science branches in AFBI in areas such as animal production, agri-environment, aquatics and animal and plant health. We collaborate nationally and internationally with a range of partners and are active participants in leading research networks.

Responsibilities

• To lead and support research projects contributing to a programme of research in areas related to agricultural, environmental, and rural policy challenges.
• To undertake applied economic research to support policy development and/or evaluation.
• To further develop a suite of economic models, establishing a platform to support the transition to agricultural systems aligned with climate, water quality and biodiversity outcomes.
• The post holder will be expected to provide leadership in conceptualising, planning, and delivering model design, documentation, analysis, and dissemination.
• To secure funding and work with funders.
• To contribute to writing applications to secure research funding from government (such as DAERA, DAFM, DEFRA), EU, industry funders, and other funders, as appropriate, and to help establish and maintain good relationships with these funders.
• To manage research projects and contracts. To ensure that allocated budgets are handled in a fully auditable manner, compliant with AFBI procedures, and to supply appropriate financial data to project funders when required.
• To establish and maintain linkages with other research groups.
• To collaborate with colleagues across AFBI, the Co-Centre for Climate and Biodiversity and Water and build relationships for future collaboration with researchers and stakeholders in universities, NGOs, government bodies and industry, as appropriate.
• To lead on the delivery of reports (e.g. press articles and other material) as required to ensure effective technology transfer of relevant results, and to meet the contractual requirements of research projects.
• To publish and present outputs in appropriate formats including, research reports, policy briefs and stakeholder presentations. This will necessitate the job holder to have a high standard of skills in both writing and verbal communication.
• To communicate research results and findings to peers by participating in international conferences, publishing in peer reviewed academic journals, and delivering internal and external invited seminars and presentations.
• To manage staff, resources and facilities,
• To provide leadership and manage research economists and other staff as appropriate, in compliance with all relevant AFBI health and safety and staff management practices.
• To contribute to the management of resources, ensuring they are utilised to greatest effect and properly maintained.
• To provide technical, professional and practical support and mentoring to colleagues within the Economics Research Branch.
• To undertake continuous professional development.
• To maintain an up-to-date knowledge of relevant economic literature and demonstrate personal development in all relevant areas of research management.
• To follow current issues impacting on agriculture, the natural environment and regional economies.
• This list is not exhaustive, and the successful candidate will be required to carry out other duties as allocated by management.

Skills and Qualifications

• A PhD in Economics or a closely related subject AND 2 years’ demonstrable post-doc experience related to agricultural economics or environmental economics AND (c) 2 peer reviewed articles in relevant publications.
• OR A Degree in Economics or a closely related subject, equivalent or higher AND 4 years' post qualification demonstrable experience related to agricultural economics or environmental economics AND 2 peer reviewed articles in relevant publications.
• Demonstrable experience in the application of economic modelling or programming methods that could be utilised to investigate the impacts of agricultural and environmental policies across different groups or places.
• Demonstrable experience of undertaking research that informs UK or European agriculture or environmental policy.
• Please refer to the Candidate Information Booklet for further information on the Eligibility Criteria.

Further Information

NICS Application form only, Vacancy closing date Friday 30th January 2026 at 12 noon.Location: AFBI Newforge.

Application Information

Visit the recruitment service website www.nicsrecruitment.org.uk (Please quote reference number: IRC321686)

Area: All of Northern Ireland
Closing date: 09 Jan 2026