At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a team developing urban microsimulation models to impact health and wellbeing.
- Company: Loughborough University, a vibrant community focused on innovation and societal solutions.
- Benefits: Generous holiday allowance, hybrid working, and support for personal development.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a dynamic, inclusive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in urban health while collaborating internationally with leading experts.
- Qualifications: Strong modelling skills and a passion for urban health challenges.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
Application Closing Date: Wednesday, 10 June 2026
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.
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, as well as contributing to the development of entirely new methods and applications.
This is not a narrowly defined role. We are looking for someone who combines strong modelling and simulation skills with genuine intellectual curiosity about the big questions facing cities:
- How do urban environments and transport systems shape the health and wellbeing of populations?
- How can integrated microsimulation help us understand the cascading effects of climate change, economic shocks, and policy decisions on cities and the people who live in them?
- How can we build tools that are not just technically sophisticated but genuinely useful to those making decisions?
You will bring your own ideas, help shape the direction of the programme, build collaborations, including with our international partners at TU Munich, TU Graz, the University of Utrecht, ISGlobal, and TU Berlin, and help to mentor the next generation of researchers in the group.
The School of Sport Exercise and Health Sciences (SSEHS) is a multi-disciplinary school committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive academic community. It upholds the highest standards of excellence in research, innovation, and pedagogy across the full spectrum of disciplines within sport, exercise, health and wellbeing.
Your 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.
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.
Informal enquiries should be directed to Professor James Woodcock.
We are happy to consider any reasonable adjustments that candidates may need during the recruitment process. If there are additional adjustments, you would like to request please contact us.
Our benefits are designed to support your life inside and outside of work, helping you to thrive and feel valued as part of our community. Examples of our benefits include: Time off - generous holiday allowance, including 14 university closure days.
Senior Research Associate or Fellow in Microsimulation employer: Loughborough University
Loughborough University is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation. With a strong commitment to employee growth, you will have the opportunity to develop your own research agenda while working alongside leading experts in the field. The university provides generous benefits, including a substantial holiday allowance and flexible working arrangements, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and impactful employment in a supportive environment.
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 landing the role. Personal connections can give you insights that you won't find in the job description.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into the latest research and trends in microsimulation and urban health. Show us your passion and knowledge during the interview – we love candidates who are genuinely curious and engaged with the field!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your presentation skills! You might need to present your ideas or past work during the interview. Make sure you can clearly communicate complex concepts in a way that's easy to understand. We want to see how you can make your research accessible to decision-makers.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows us that 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 microsimulation and urban health, 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 is seen by the right people and keeps everything organised on our end.
How to prepare for a job interview at Loughborough 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.
✨Understand the Big Questions
Familiarise yourself with the key issues facing cities today, such as climate change and public health. Prepare to articulate how your research can contribute to solving these problems. This demonstrates your intellectual curiosity and aligns with the role's focus on impactful research.
✨Collaborative Spirit
Highlight your experience in building collaborations, especially if you've worked with international partners. Be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to the team dynamic and mentor others, as this is a key aspect of the role.
✨Tailor Your Application
When applying, clearly indicate whether you're aiming for grade 7 or grade 8. Tailor your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific requirements of the position, showcasing your relevant skills and experiences that align with the job description.
