At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a vibrant team developing urban microsimulation models to impact real-world policy.
- Company: Loughborough University, a leader in sport, exercise, and health sciences.
- Benefits: Generous holiday allowance, competitive pay, hybrid working, and excellent facilities.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and mentorship from a world-renowned researcher.
- Why this job: Make a difference in urban health while collaborating with international experts.
- Qualifications: Strong modelling skills and a passion for urban health research.
The predicted salary is between 47389 - 56535 € per year.
Package Specialist and Supporting Academic Research grade 7 from £47,389 - £56,535 or grade 8 from £59,966 - £67,468, per annum. Subject to annual pay award.
School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences Full Time (37 hours per week), 3 year fixed‑term contract Hybrid: 3 days in the office and 2 days remote.
Please note, we will appoint either at grade 7 or grade 8, depending on the successful candidate. There is only one vacancy available. Please indicate in your application which grade you wish to be considered for.
About the role
Join us and be part of a vibrant community at Loughborough University.
Key responsibilities and activities:
- We are seeking an ambitious and collaborative researcher to join a team developing and applying microsimulation and agent‑based models of cities, including an integrated land use, transport, and health exposure suite currently applied to Greater Manchester, and the ITHIM health impact modelling framework.
- Contribute to the development of entirely new methods and applications.
- Combine strong modelling and simulation skills with genuine intellectual curiosity about the big questions facing cities.
- Help shape the direction of the programme, build collaborations, and mentor the next generation of researchers in the group.
About the research lead
Professor James Woodcock is a world leader in quantitative modelling for urban health, with an h-index of 98 and a career spanning methods development, large‑scale modelling, and direct policy engagement at national and international level.
His research addresses the full complexity of how transport and the built environment shape population health – integrating evidence on physical activity, air pollution, noise, and traffic injury into tools that are rigorous and policy‑relevant.
The Senior Research Associate or Senior Research Fellow will be joining a programme at a moment of genuine ambition and growth.
Why apply?
This is a rare opportunity to work at the intersection of cutting‑edge urban simulation and real‑world policy impact, within an internationally connected programme and under the direct mentorship of a leading figure in the field.
You will have the chance to develop your own research agenda, build collaborations across Europe and beyond, contribute to a growing team, and work on questions that genuinely matter for the future of cities and the health of their populations.
Whether your background is in transport modelling, urban simulation, spatial analysis, or a related quantitative field, if you are motivated by using models to understand and improve cities, we would love to hear from you.
Adjustments and support
We are happy to consider any reasonable adjustments that candidates may need during the recruitment process. If there are additional adjustments you’d like to request please contact SSEHS-Recruitment@lboro.ac.uk. We also offer reasonable adjustments on the job.
Benefits:
- Time off – generous holiday allowance, including 14 university closure days and bank holidays, with the option to buy extra through our holiday purchase scheme.
- Working environment – access to a range of fantastic facilities with plenty of green space across our 523‑acre East Midlands campus, plus an exciting community at our London campus on the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
- Financial wellbeing – competitive pay, two excellent pension schemes, and everyday savings opportunities.
- Support for you and those close to you – through our range of life event leave policies as well as access to an on‑site nursery at our East Midlands campus, flexible and hybrid working options.
- Health and wellbeing – discounted gym memberships and access to world‑class sporting facilities, including physiotherapy, plus healthcare offers such as eyesight testing and wellbeing support.
- Travel and sustainability – access to our electric vehicle and cycle‑to‑work schemes, as well as a variety of travel offers to support sustainable commuting.
Job details:
- Location: Loughborough, United Kingdom
- Contract type: Full Time, 3 year fixed‑term
Senior Research Associate or Fellow in Microsimulation employer: Karlstad University
Loughborough University is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and collaborative work environment that fosters innovation and intellectual curiosity. With generous benefits including a competitive salary, extensive holiday allowance, and access to world-class facilities, employees are supported in their professional growth and well-being. The opportunity to work alongside leading experts in urban health research and contribute to impactful projects makes this role particularly rewarding for those passionate about improving city living and public health.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Research Associate or Fellow in Microsimulation
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Loughborough University on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for the application process. Personal connections can give you insights that make all the difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into the research led by Professor James Woodcock. Familiarise yourself with his work on urban health and modelling. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you articulate how your skills align with the team's goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your presentation skills! You might be asked to present your previous research or ideas during the interview. Make sure you can clearly communicate complex concepts in a way that's engaging and easy to understand.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our vibrant community at Loughborough University.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Research Associate or Fellow in Microsimulation
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role. We want to see your passion for urban health and microsimulation, so don’t hold back on showcasing relevant projects or research!
Be Clear About Your Grade Preference:Since we’re considering candidates for both grade 7 and grade 8, be sure to specify which grade you’d like to be considered for in your application. This helps us streamline the process and ensures you’re evaluated appropriately.
Show Your Collaborative Spirit:We’re looking for someone who thrives in a team environment. Use your application to demonstrate your collaborative experiences, especially any international partnerships or mentoring roles you've had. It’s all about building connections!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need right there.
How to prepare for a job interview at Karlstad University
✨Know Your Models
Make sure you brush up on your microsimulation and agent-based modelling skills. Be ready to discuss specific projects you've worked on, especially those that relate to urban environments and health impacts. This will show your genuine interest and expertise in the field.
✨Research the Team
Familiarise yourself with Professor James Woodcock's work and the broader research agenda at Loughborough University. Understanding their current projects and how your skills can contribute will help you stand out as a candidate who is not just qualified but also genuinely interested in their mission.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Think of insightful questions to ask during the interview. This could be about the future direction of the research programme or how they envision collaboration with international partners. It shows you're engaged and thinking critically about the role.
✨Show Your Collaborative Spirit
Since this role involves building collaborations, be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully worked in teams before. Highlight your ability to mentor others and contribute to a positive team environment, which is key for this position.