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- Tasks: Develop modelling tools to analyse the UK's building stock for climate change solutions.
- Company: Join the University of Cambridge's innovative BuildZero project focused on sustainable building practices.
- Benefits: Enjoy a collaborative environment with potential for extension and impactful research opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in climate change mitigation while working with leading experts in the field.
- Qualifications: PhD (or near completion) in Engineering or related field; modelling and analytical skills preferred.
- Other info: Full-time position for 1.5 years, with collaboration across multiple universities.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
One Research Assistant/Associate position is available as part of the BuildZero project (https://www.eng.cam.ac.uk/news/study-explore-if-circular-economy-can-meet-needs-uks-buildings).
BuildZero is a five-year project funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (UKRI) and will undertake transformative research on the UK’s building sector, aiming to work towards zero material extraction, zero carbon, and zero waste. The UK has one of the oldest and least efficient building stocks. Yet, little is known about the existing building stock and what interventions will be required to provide our future building needs while meeting our climate targets.
The successful candidate will develop new modelling tools and approaches to characterise the existing building stock in the UK. This should combine a physical characterisation of buildings, including material composition and retrofit requirements, with their patterns of use and energy performance. These modelling approaches should enable the identification of pathways for material circularity and climate change mitigation for UK buildings. By the end of the project, the role-holder will have identified and prioritised key interventions in the UK building sector and its supply chain that lead to a faster reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and material demand.
We seek to appoint one candidate with a PhD (or close to obtain) in Engineering or other relevant technical field, and who are motivated to contribute to the impact of the BuildZero research output on climate change mitigation and material circularity. Modelling and analytical skills, and experience working with tools of Industrial Ecology will be beneficial. The candidates should be able to work effectively in interdisciplinary environments, and both with industrial and academic partners.
The successful candidate will be working directly with Dr André Cabrera Serrenho and Prof Jonathan Cullen, and will be based in the Department of Engineering of the University of Cambridge. They will participate fully in the activities of BuildZero. This will imply a close collaboration with all other researchers in this project in the Universities of Sheffield, Bath, Cardiff, and Manchester.
This post is full-time and is being offered for one and a half years in the first instance, but with a possibility end of the five-year BuildZero project. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview, which is expected to take place in August 2025. Appointment at Research Associate level is dependent on having a PhD. Those who have submitted but not yet received their PhD will be appointed at Research Assistant level, which will be amended to Research Associate once the PhD has been awarded.
Informal enquires about this post can be made to Dr André Cabrera Serrenho (ag806@cam.ac.uk).
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Postdoc in Building Stock Modelling employer: International Society for Industrial Ecology
Contact Detail:
International Society for Industrial Ecology Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoc in Building Stock Modelling
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the BuildZero project and its objectives. Understanding the project's goals around zero carbon, zero waste, and material circularity will help you articulate how your skills and experiences align with their mission during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or past researchers involved in similar projects. Engaging with professionals in the field can provide insights into the research environment and expectations, which can be invaluable when preparing for interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your modelling and analytical skills through practical examples. Be ready to discuss specific tools or methodologies you've used in previous projects that relate to building stock modelling or industrial ecology.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare thoughtful questions about the interdisciplinary nature of the project. Demonstrating your interest in collaboration with both academic and industrial partners will highlight your ability to work effectively in diverse teams.
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoc in Building Stock Modelling
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Project: Familiarise yourself with the BuildZero project and its objectives. Highlight your understanding of the UK’s building sector challenges and how your skills can contribute to achieving zero carbon and zero waste.
Tailor Your CV: Ensure your CV reflects relevant experience in engineering, modelling, and analytical skills. Emphasise any previous work related to industrial ecology or building stock analysis, and make sure to include your PhD status.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that outlines your motivation for applying, your relevant skills, and how you plan to contribute to the BuildZero project. Be specific about your interest in climate change mitigation and material circularity.
Prepare for the Interview: If shortlisted, prepare for the interview by reviewing potential questions related to your research experience and how it aligns with the project goals. Be ready to discuss your collaborative experiences with both academic and industrial partners.
How to prepare for a job interview at International Society for Industrial Ecology
✨Understand the BuildZero Project
Familiarise yourself with the goals and objectives of the BuildZero project. Be prepared to discuss how your skills and experiences align with their mission to achieve zero material extraction, carbon, and waste in the UK building sector.
✨Showcase Your Modelling Skills
Highlight your experience with modelling tools and approaches relevant to building stock analysis. Be ready to provide examples of past projects where you developed or used similar tools, especially in the context of energy performance and material circularity.
✨Demonstrate Interdisciplinary Collaboration
Since the role involves working with both academic and industrial partners, be prepared to discuss your experience in interdisciplinary environments. Share specific examples of how you've successfully collaborated with diverse teams to achieve research goals.
✨Prepare Questions for Your Interviewers
Think of insightful questions to ask Dr André Cabrera Serrenho and Prof Jonathan Cullen about the project and their expectations. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the position aligns with your career goals.
