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- Tasks: Lead projects on the environmental impacts of AI and improve sustainability reporting.
- Company: Join the Cambridge Service Alliance, a leader in sustainable computing research.
- Benefits: Flexible working options, opportunities for teaching, and access to cutting-edge research tools.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on AI's environmental footprint while collaborating with top scientists.
- Qualifications: PhD or equivalent experience in computer science, AI, or sustainability required.
- Other info: Position available for 2 years; apply by 16th September 2025.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 £ per year.
Research Associate*/Research Assistant in Sustainability of AI (Fixed Term)
Join to apply for the Research Associate*/Research Assistant in Sustainability of AI (Fixed Term) role at Cambridge Service Alliance
Research Associate*/Research Assistant in Sustainability of AI (Fixed Term)
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Join to apply for the Research Associate*/Research Assistant in Sustainability of AI (Fixed Term) role at Cambridge Service Alliance
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An exciting opportunity has arisen for a talented researcher to join our team as part of the Green Algorithms Initiative, one of the leading academic teams in the field of sustainable computing. The post will suit researchers interested in tackling one of the most pressing issues in tech today: improving our understanding and mitigating the environmental impacts of artificial intelligence and data centres.
Role
Your primary role will be to lead projects improving how computing environmental impacts are currently estimated and reported and investigate the impacts of high-impact computational tools in AI. The appointed researcher will have research interests aligned with those of our group and the freedom to develop their own ideas for new research. Initial possibilities for research projects include:
- Studying the environmental impacts of AI tools expected to become (or continue to be) prominent in research in the coming years.
- Taking a global view on the impacts of data centres and AI, encompassing environmental sustainability, human health, and perspectives from the Global South.
- Exploring ways to better integrate life-cycle analyses in impact estimates and expanding environmental impacts beyond carbon footprint, with a focus on water usage in particular.
This research will be a key component of making computing more sustainable by drastically improving the reporting of AI impacts and shedding light on the multiple facets of the issue. If needed, you will be trained to obtain the required level of expertise in AI, green computing and environmental sustainability. Your work is expected to lead to first author high-impact publications. It is a particularly timely position at a moment when the environmental impacts of AI are being increasingly discussed, and the post holder will be able to contribute significantly to the debate internationally.
The Green Algorithms Initiative, led by Dr Loïc Lannelongue, is a world-leading project in the field of green computing focusing on quantifying and reducing the environmental impacts of computational science. The tools and frameworks developed and maintained by the group are used internationally and include the popular Green Algorithms online calculator, server-specific monitoring tools, and the GREENER Principles for Environmentally Sustainable Computational Science. The group has a strong commitment to making all tools available open access to the computing community. The Green Algorithms Initiative has received both nominations and awards for its contributions to environmentally sustainable research (e.g. HDR-UK Impact Award).
You will be part of the Lannelongue group and work in close conjunction with the senior scientists in the Green Algorithms Initiative, including Dr Loïc Lannelongue and Professor Michael Inouye. You will also work closely with other members of the Department and scientific collaborators based in other institutions. In particular, there will be links with the Department of Computer Science and Technology in Cambridge. The post-holder will be expected to work with our wider teams and develop collaborations with local and international groups. Opportunities to develop supervision and teaching skills will be provided.
The preferred candidate will have a PhD (or equivalent experience) in computer science, machine learning/AI, sustainability, or other related subject. They will have a strong interest in the intersection between computing, science and environmental sustainability. They should have an ability to communicate and present results to other scientists along with excellent verbal and written communications skills and strong organisational skills.
As a group, we value and encourage applications from a diversity of backgrounds and experiences to contribute to the highly interdisciplinary research programme. We strongly value and encourage Equity, Diversity and Inclusion as well as a flexible working environment.
Click the \’Apply\’ button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.
The funds are available for 2 years in the first instance from commencement in post.
This is a full-time position or part-time of no less than 70% FTE
Location – Victor Phillip Dahdaleh Heart & Lung Research Institute, Biomedical Campus, Papworth Road, Trumpington, Cambridge CB2 0BD or (approx 2 miles south of city centre)
Informal enquiries are welcome and can be made to Dr Loïc Lannelongue ( ).
Applicants must have (or be close to obtaining) a PhD.
Appointment at Research Associate level is dependent on having a PhD. Those who have submitted but not yet received their PhD will initially be appointed as a Research Assistant (Grade 5, Point 38 £34,132) moving to Research Associate (Grade 7) upon confirmation of your PhD award.
Please ensure that you upload a covering letter and CV in the Upload section of the online application. The covering letter should outline how you match the criteria for the post and why you are applying for this role. If you upload any additional documents which have not been requested, we will not be able to consider these as part of your application.
Please include details of your referees, including email address and phone number, one of which must be your most recent line manager.
Closing date: 16th September 2025
Interview date: Between the 29th September 2025 and 17th October 2025
Please quote reference RH46944 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
Apply online
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Research Associate*/Research Assistant in Sustainability of AI (Fixed Term) employer: Cambridge Service Alliance
Contact Detail:
Cambridge Service Alliance Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate*/Research Assistant in Sustainability of AI (Fixed Term)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest research and developments in sustainable computing and AI. This will not only help you understand the field better but also allow you to engage in meaningful conversations during interviews, showcasing your genuine interest and knowledge.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the sustainability and AI sectors. Attend relevant conferences, webinars, or workshops where you can meet researchers and industry experts. Building these connections can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your own research ideas that align with the Green Algorithms Initiative's goals. Think about how your background and interests can contribute to their projects, and be ready to present these ideas clearly and confidently during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on the environmental impacts of AI and data centres by following relevant publications and news sources. Being well-informed will enable you to articulate your thoughts on current issues and demonstrate your commitment to sustainability in your discussions with the hiring team.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate*/Research Assistant in Sustainability of AI (Fixed Term)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Covering Letter: Make sure your covering letter specifically addresses how your skills and experiences align with the role of Research Associate/Research Assistant in Sustainability of AI. Highlight your interest in sustainable computing and any relevant research you've conducted.
Showcase Relevant Experience: In your CV, emphasise any previous research experience related to AI, sustainability, or environmental impacts. Include specific projects or publications that demonstrate your expertise in these areas.
Highlight Communication Skills: Since the role requires excellent verbal and written communication skills, provide examples in your application of how you have effectively communicated complex ideas to diverse audiences, whether through presentations, publications, or collaborative projects.
Include Referees Wisely: When listing your referees, choose individuals who can speak to your research capabilities and teamwork skills. Ensure one is your most recent line manager, and provide their contact details accurately to facilitate easy communication.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cambridge Service Alliance
✨Understand the Green Algorithms Initiative
Familiarise yourself with the goals and projects of the Green Algorithms Initiative. Knowing their focus on sustainable computing and the environmental impacts of AI will help you align your answers with their mission during the interview.
✨Prepare Your Research Ideas
Think about potential research projects you could propose that align with the role. Be ready to discuss how your ideas can contribute to improving the understanding of AI's environmental impacts, as this shows initiative and creativity.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since the role requires excellent verbal and written communication skills, practice explaining complex concepts in simple terms. This will demonstrate your ability to present research findings effectively to both scientific and non-scientific audiences.
✨Highlight Your Interdisciplinary Approach
Emphasise your ability to work across different fields, especially between computing, science, and sustainability. Discuss any past experiences where you've collaborated with diverse teams, as this is crucial for the interdisciplinary nature of the research programme.
