At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a team tackling sustainability challenges in fisheries through research and innovative financing.
- Company: Heriot-Watt University is a leading institution focused on impactful research and education.
- Benefits: Enjoy 33 days of annual leave, flexible working options, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Potential for contract extension and involvement in diverse interdisciplinary projects.
- Why this job: Make a real-world impact on sustainable business while collaborating with international experts.
- Qualifications: PhD or near completion in Finance, Economics, or related fields; strong research and analytical skills required.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Research Associate in Sustainable Business and Finance
Join to apply for the Research Associate in Sustainable Business and Finance role at Heriot-Watt University.
Overview
Research Assistant/ Postdoctoral Research Associate in Sustainable Business and Finance
Location & Contract
Location: Edinburgh Campus
Contract Type: Full Time (1 FTE), Fixed Term for 1.5 years (With potential to extend)
Rewards & Benefits
- 33 days annual leave, plus 9 buildings closed days (and Christmas Eve when it falls on a weekday) for all full time staff
- Value of benefits available via Heriot-Watt University total rewards calculator
- Flexible working patterns, including part-time working and job share options
The Role
We are looking to appoint up to two exceptional researchers to join our UKRI Ayrton Challenge Programme project “Sustainable Cooling Infrastructure for Fisheries in Indonesia (SCI-FI)”. SCI-FI is an interdisciplinary initiative that aims to create a deployment blueprint for sustainable cooling infrastructure that expands cold chain access at affordable costs, while enabling a just and inclusive energy transition in small-scale fishing communities. The project brings together leading researchers from University of Birmingham, Heriot-Watt University (HWU), Durham University, and three partner universities in Indonesia including Politeknik Negeri Bali, Universitas Indonesia, and Universitas Pattimura. At Edinburgh Business School, HWU, we are looking for highly motivated researchers to conduct pioneering work at the intersection of sustainable business, finance, and infrastructure innovation. This role offers the opportunity to work within an international, interdisciplinary team tackling real-world sustainability challenges.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
- Collect and analyse quantitative and qualitative data from various sources (e.g., surveys, interviews, secondary datasets)
- Apply advanced analytical techniques (e.g., econometric models; AI tools; MCDA; cognitive mapping) to generate robust, actionable insight
- Design innovative financing channels and business models to advance sustainable cooling infrastructure
- Develop decision-supporting tools to evaluate sustainability outcomes, promote equitable risk-sharing, and profit distribution
- Produce high-quality outputs, including academic publications, industry reports, and white papers focused on sustainable business models, investment behaviours, and financial strategies for sustainable cooling
- Collaborate with academic and industrial partners, contributing to project visits, workshops, and cross-consortium coordination
- Engage with diverse stakeholders, including Indonesian government agencies and international policymakers, to enhance knowledge exchange and policy impact
General & Administrative
- Collaborate effectively with administrative and academic staff in the School and across the University
- Engage in professional development through training programs aligned with project needs and personal aspirations
- Engage with industrial and non-academic stakeholders to determine system requirements and address barriers to implementation
- Assist with supervision of student project work and provide day-to-day support to other researchers
- Support the delivery of teaching as required
- Undertake additional duties as reasonably requested by project leaders, commensurate with the nature and grade of the post
- Regularly report research progress through formal and informal reports and communications
- Attend and contribute to project meetings and stakeholder engagement events
- Assist in developing research proposals and grant applications for follow-on project funding
Education, Qualifications & Experience
- A PhD (or near completion) in a relevant discipline such as Finance; Economics; Business Analytics; Sustainability or related discipline
- Strong knowledge of sustainable finance, green business, and decision support
- Understanding of net zero and/or circular economy concepts
- Proven track record of high-quality publications
- Ability to work independently and conduct high-quality research, with experience analysing complex systems using qualitative and quantitative data
- Familiarity with tools and techniques used in sustainability research and finance
- Experience working effectively in diverse, interdisciplinary teams
Knowledge, Skills & Experience
- Evidence of attracting research grants or external funding and delivering on externally funded projects
- Knowledge to support international collaboration
- Awareness of the regulatory framework
Seniority level
- Mid-Senior level
Employment type
- Full-time
Job function
- Education and Research
Industries
- Research Services
Note: This description reflects current role details and does not include external job postings or unrelated content.
Research Associate in Sustainable Business and Finance employer: Heriot-Watt University
Heriot-Watt University is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration among interdisciplinary teams. With generous benefits including 33 days of annual leave and flexible working options, employees are supported in achieving a healthy work-life balance while engaging in meaningful research that addresses real-world sustainability challenges. The Edinburgh campus provides a unique opportunity to contribute to impactful projects like the SCI-FI initiative, enhancing both personal and professional growth in a dynamic academic environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate in Sustainable Business and Finance
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the field of sustainable business and finance. Attend relevant conferences, workshops, or webinars where you can meet researchers and industry experts. This will not only help you gain insights into the latest trends but also increase your chances of being referred for the position.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the specific methodologies and tools mentioned in the job description, such as econometrics models and AI tools. Consider taking online courses or attending workshops to enhance your skills in these areas, making you a more attractive candidate.
✨Tip Number 3
Engage with the research community by contributing to discussions on platforms like ResearchGate or LinkedIn. Share your thoughts on sustainable finance and cooling infrastructure, which can showcase your expertise and passion for the subject matter.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your previous research experiences and how they relate to the role. Be ready to explain how your work aligns with the goals of the SCI-FI project, demonstrating your understanding of the challenges and opportunities in sustainable cooling infrastructure.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate in Sustainable Business and Finance
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in sustainable business, finance, and research methodologies. Emphasise any previous work with interdisciplinary teams or projects related to sustainability.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:In your cover letter, express your passion for sustainable development and how your background aligns with the goals of the SCI-FI project. Mention specific skills or experiences that make you a strong candidate for this role.
Showcase Research Experience:Detail your research experience, particularly any quantitative and qualitative data analysis you've conducted. Highlight any publications or reports you've contributed to, especially those related to sustainable finance or business models.
Demonstrate Collaboration Skills:Provide examples of how you've successfully collaborated with diverse stakeholders in past projects. This could include working with academic institutions, government agencies, or industry partners, showcasing your ability to engage effectively across disciplines.
How to prepare for a job interview at Heriot-Watt University
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
Be prepared to discuss your previous research experiences in detail. Highlight any quantitative and qualitative data analysis you've conducted, especially if it relates to sustainable finance or business models.
✨Demonstrate Interdisciplinary Collaboration
Since the role involves working with diverse teams, share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others from different disciplines. This will show your ability to contribute to the interdisciplinary nature of the project.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Relevant Tools
Brush up on the analytical techniques mentioned in the job description, such as econometrics models and AI tools. Being able to discuss these tools confidently will demonstrate your technical proficiency.
✨Engage with Sustainability Topics
Stay updated on current trends and challenges in sustainable business and finance. Be ready to discuss how your work can contribute to real-world sustainability challenges, particularly in the context of the project’s goals.
