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- Tasks: Conduct cutting-edge research on AI and environmental sustainability, co-author publications, and track global governance standards.
- Company: Join Bath Spa University, a leader in innovative research and sustainable practices.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, a strong pension scheme, and various employee discounts.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on AI policy while collaborating with industry experts and shaping sustainable futures.
- Qualifications: PhD in a relevant field with research experience in AI, environmental sustainability, and policy governance.
- Other info: This is a full-time, 30-month fixed term contract based in beautiful Bath, Somerset.
The predicted salary is between 38249 - 42882 £ per year.
Research Associate in AI and the Environment (Fixed term)
Application Deadline: 13 August 2025
Department: School of Writing Publishing & Humanities
Employment Type: Fixed Term – Full Time
Location: Bath, Somerset – Newton Park
Compensation: Grade Ac2- starting from GBP 38,249 – rising to GBP 42,882 per annum
Description
We are seeking a Research Associate in AI and the Environment to join the AHRC BRAID project Sustainable AI Futures. This role offers the opportunity to conduct cutting-edge research, influence policy and practice, and collaborate with academic and industry partners to build more sustainable AI futures. (This is a full-time, 30-month fixed term contract).
About the Role
Within the role you will explore the intersection of responsible AI and environmental sustainability. You will conduct cutting-edge research through literature reviews and expert interviews, co-author academic publications, toolkits, and policy papers, and track global AI governance standards (ISO, ITU, IEEE) to ensure our work remains relevant and impactful.
You\’ll also help build a thriving community of practice, contributing to workshops, symposia, and other high-profile activities that shape the future of AI and the environment.
About You
- Completed PhD in a relevant discipline
- Research experience in at least one relevant domain, specifically:
a) environmental sustainability and/or climate change
b) Artificial Intelligence (e.g. AI policy, AI ethics, responsible AI, or critical AI studies)
c) policy and governance, particularly relating to science, technology, or the environment
- Strong analytic and communication skills, with evidence of producing high-quality outputs (e.g. publications, toolkits, standards, policy papers, reports)
- Excellent collaboration and interpersonal skills, which could be evidenced through activities such as conducting interviews or fieldwork, building relationships with stakeholders, helping to cultivate a community of practice, conducting campaigns or driving change, or in other ways
- Independent and proactive, capable of working flexibly individually and as part of a team
- Experience engaging with legislation, policy, technical standards, or governance frameworks, including any work related to responsible AI (e.g. ISO, IEEE, OECD, BSI, or internal industry frameworks)
- Experience of working with partners from outside academia (e.g. industry, NGOs, policymakers, cultural or creative organisations), and/or delivering impact outside academia
- Research experience in more than one relevant domain (see point 2 under \’essential\’ criteria)
For further information on the essential and desirable skills we\’re looking for, please refer to the attached Job Description.
Additional Information
Salary: Grade Ac2, starting from GBP 38,249 rising to GBP 42,882 per annumThe salary range shows the potential maximum pay progression in addition to any annual inflationary increase to your pay. Please note that our default position is to appoint into the lower end of the range, unless there are exceptional circumstances.This is a 30 month, fixed term contract.
Depending upon the research project this role may be subject to Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks.
Staff Benefits
We offer a wide range of great benefits at BSU, including
- Generous pension scheme (Local Government Pension Scheme/Teacher\’s Pension Scheme). This is a defined benefit pension scheme which pays members a secure income for life, post-retirement
- Enhanced paid leave – 41 – 46 days depending on the role (Full Time) – more details here: https://apphub.bathspa.ac.uk/StaffBenefits
- Family friendly policies including hybrid working, flexible work environment, on-site nursery, and a sector-leading enhanced maternity scheme
- Employee Assistance Programme which offers access to on-demand GP appointments, wellbeing support and advice, and access to counselling
- Transport schemes including Electric Vehicle Scheme and Cycle to Work
- Wide range of discounts and financial benefits, accessed through and easy-to-use app
For further details about all our staff benefits, have a look at our rewards page: https://www.bathspa.ac.uk/work-at-bath-spa/rewards-and-benefits/
We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible. #J-18808-Ljbffr
Research Associate in AI and the Environment (Fixed term) employer: Bath Spa University
Contact Detail:
Bath Spa University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate in AI and the Environment (Fixed term)
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the fields of AI and environmental sustainability. Attend relevant conferences, workshops, or webinars to meet potential collaborators and gain insights into current trends and challenges in the industry.
✨Tip Number 2
Engage with online communities and forums focused on responsible AI and environmental issues. This can help you stay updated on the latest research and policy developments, as well as connect with like-minded individuals who share your interests.
✨Tip Number 3
Consider reaching out to current or former employees of the organisation to gain insights into their experiences. This can provide you with valuable information about the work culture and expectations, which can be beneficial during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your research experience in detail, particularly how it relates to both AI and environmental sustainability. Be ready to share specific examples of your work and how it has contributed to policy or practice in these areas.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate in AI and the Environment (Fixed term)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your research experience in AI and environmental sustainability. Include specific projects or publications that demonstrate your expertise in these areas.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, explain why you are passionate about the intersection of AI and environmental sustainability. Mention any relevant collaborations with industry partners or contributions to policy papers that align with the role.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Emphasise your strong analytic and communication skills. Provide examples of high-quality outputs you've produced, such as publications or toolkits, to showcase your ability to contribute effectively to the project.
Showcase Collaboration Experience: Detail your experience working with stakeholders outside academia. Highlight any successful partnerships or community-building activities that demonstrate your interpersonal skills and ability to drive change.
How to prepare for a job interview at Bath Spa University
✨Showcase Your Research Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous research projects in detail, especially those related to environmental sustainability and AI. Highlight any publications or toolkits you've co-authored, as this demonstrates your ability to produce high-quality outputs.
✨Demonstrate Collaboration Skills
Since the role involves working with various stakeholders, share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with partners outside academia. Discuss any workshops or symposia you've contributed to, showcasing your interpersonal skills.
✨Understand Relevant Policies and Standards
Familiarise yourself with global AI governance standards such as ISO, ITU, and IEEE. Be ready to discuss how these frameworks relate to responsible AI and environmental sustainability, as this knowledge will be crucial for the role.
✨Prepare for Questions on Flexibility and Independence
The role requires a proactive approach and the ability to work independently. Think of examples where you've taken initiative in your research or adapted to changing circumstances, as this will demonstrate your suitability for the position.