Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Support innovative research on low-carbon communities and power distribution networks.
- Company: Join Newcastle University, a global leader in research and inclusivity.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, generous holidays, and health initiatives.
- Other info: Collaborate with industry partners and contribute to groundbreaking projects.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the transition to a net-zero economy.
- Qualifications: Degree in engineering or related field; PhD preferred.
The predicted salary is between 33951 - 46049 ÂŁ per year.
Salary: Research Assistant - ÂŁ33,951 to ÂŁ35,608 per annum; Research Associate - ÂŁ36,636 to ÂŁ46,049 per annum.
Newcastle University is a great place to work, with excellent benefits. We have a generous holiday package; plus the opportunity to buy more, great pension schemes and a number of health and wellbeing initiatives to support you.
Closing Date: 14 May 2026
The Role
To enable the societal transition to a net‑zero economy, electrical power systems are rapidly decarbonising supply whilst electrifying carbon‑intensive demand. This is accelerating the integration of low‑carbon technologies (LCTs), such as solar photovoltaics (PV), electric vehicles, heat pumps and storage systems, into distribution networks. Delivering this transition requires coordinated innovation across both active distribution networks and renewable‑integrated buildings and communities.
To increase operational efficiency, reduce losses, and extend the useful life of electrical equipment in LV distribution networks, power electronic devices (PEDs) are widely used. However, ensuring effective electrical protection for such an innovative LV network design remains critical.
In this role, you will contribute to Newcastle University’s efforts to address the above challenge by supporting the development of advanced tools and models for the design and operation of active low‑carbon communities and PEDs‑rich LV distribution networks. The position forms a key part of the flagship D‑Suite project, led by UK utility SP Energy Networks, as well as the SOLACE project in collaboration with Newcastle City Council. Working as a member of Newcastle’s Power Systems research group, and supported by the University’s Research Software Engineering team, you will advance the development and enhancement of modelling and dynamic simulation frameworks for the integration of diverse PEDs and LCTs into distribution networks and buildings across both D‑Suite and SOLACE. Therefore, your research will focus on understanding electromagnetic transient processes (EMTP) in modern distribution networks and developing tools for the optimal integration of PEDs/LCTs and the design of effective classical and AI‑based protection concepts.
Your core responsibilities will also include contributing to broader research activities on power‑electronics‑based power systems within the Electrical Power Group. In addition, you will have the opportunity to contribute to the £15m EPSRC‑funded Energy Demand Research Centre (EDRC), working collaboratively across a network of 14 leading universities throughout the UK. Further opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration and research will be available through the Centre for Energy.
Given the focus of the role, we are particularly keen to appoint researchers who are motivated to undertake collaborative research with industry partners. We seek to apply innovative methods to address real‑world challenges whilst delivering significant academic contributions.
The post is full‑time and fixed‑term for 24 months. You will be based in the newly renovated Stephenson Building. We aim to hold interviews in the second half of March. Candidates invited to interview will be asked, in advance of the interview, to complete a half‑day task within a window of at least 10 days. A start date of May or early June 2026 is preferred, although later start dates may be considered.
Key Accountabilities
- Support development and documentation for the D‑Suite and SOLACE projects.
- Formulate and solve optimisation and protection coordination problems, developing algorithms which have appropriate accuracy, precision, and speed.
- Write up and present results from own research activity and provide input into the project’s dissemination (technical reports, conference and journal papers in appropriate outlets).
- Contribute ideas, including enhancements to the technical or methodological aspects of the projects.
- Co‑ordinate own work with that of others, deal with problems which may affect the achievement of research objectives and contribute to the planning of the projects.
- Collect, analyse, and interpret research data and draw conclusions on the outcomes.
The Person
Knowledge, Skills and Experience
- Knowledge of the structure of power distribution networks and the impact of PEDs and LCTs on distribution networks and buildings.
- Experience in developing high‑fidelity models of PEDs/LCTs and implementing them in EMTP‑type dynamic simulations to understand the distribution of fault currents during different types of faults in LV networks.
- Understand principles of power system protection and protection coordination.
- Knowledge in developing AI‑based applications for advanced LV network protection and operation.
- Experience in formulating optimisation problems and solving them using appropriate methods.
- Understanding of the potential use‑cases of network operator‑owned active power electronics solutions.
- Ability to present complex information effectively to a range of audiences with clarity.
- Experience of working collaboratively with colleagues.
- The ability to use personal initiative and creativity to solve research problems.
- Experience of presenting research at conferences and/or in high‑quality publications.
- Evidence of potential to publish journal articles with research of international significance.
Desirable
- Experience in active network design and flexibility assessment using PowerFactory/DIgSILENT software package.
- Experience in running EMT‑type dynamic simulations and fault studies.
- Experience working with Matlab Simulink and/or PSCAD software packages.
- Experience in building‑level performance and techno‑economic modelling using EnergyPlus or IESVE.
- Experience working with high‑resolution electricity consumption and renewable generation data.
- Knowledge of socio‑economic considerations supporting equitable LCT deployment.
- Experience working with Distribution Network Operators or Utilities on research, innovation or consulting projects.
- Experience working with Python, Git, and/or Object‑Oriented Programming.
Attributes and Behaviour
- Commitment to working positively as a member of a research team.
- Ability to communicate work to a range of audiences, including researchers, engineers, and the general public.
- Ability to prioritise competing responsibilities and to work to deadlines.
- Commitment to continued professional development.
- Understanding of and commitment to good practice in equality, inclusion and diversity (EDI) in line with Newcastle University’s EDI principles.
Qualifications
- Research Assistant: First degree in engineering or numerate subject (e.g., mathematics, physical sciences, computer science); PhD close to completion in the field of Power Systems, Smart Grids, Power Electronics and Control, or related discipline (upon PhD completion, will transition to Research Associate).
- In addition for Research Associate: PhD awarded in the field of Power Systems, Smart Grids, Power Electronics and Control, or related discipline.
Newcastle University is a global University where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. As a University of Sanctuary, we aim to provide a welcoming place of safety for all, offering opportunities to people fleeing violence and persecution.
We are committed to being a fully inclusive university which actively recruits, supports and retains colleagues from all sectors of society. We value diversity as well as celebrate, support and thrive on the contributions of all of our employees and the communities they represent. We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer and encourage applications from individuals who can complement our existing teams, we believe that success is built on having teams whose backgrounds and experiences reflect the diversity of our university and student population.
In addition, we are a member of the Euraxess initiative supporting researchers in Europe.
Research Assistant/Associate in Designing Active Low-Carbon Communities in Newcastle upon Tyne employer: Newcastle University
Contact Detail:
Newcastle University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Assistant/Associate in Designing Active Low-Carbon Communities in Newcastle upon Tyne
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at Newcastle University or in the power systems field. Use LinkedIn or professional groups to connect and ask about their experiences. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for that interview task! Since you'll need to complete a half-day task before your interview, start brushing up on your skills now. Familiarise yourself with EMTP simulations and optimisation problems so you can impress them with your knowledge.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your passion for low-carbon technologies! During interviews, share your thoughts on the latest trends in renewable energy and how they relate to the role. This will demonstrate your enthusiasm and commitment to the field.
✨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 you’re serious about joining the team at Newcastle University.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant/Associate in Designing Active Low-Carbon Communities in Newcastle upon Tyne
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant skills and experiences that align with the role. We want to see how you can contribute to our projects, so don’t hold back on showcasing your expertise in power systems and low-carbon technologies!
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for research and innovation shine through in your application. We’re looking for candidates who are genuinely excited about contributing to the transition to a net-zero economy, so share your motivation and any relevant projects you've worked on.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to explain your qualifications and experiences, as we appreciate clarity and directness. Remember, we want to understand your journey and how it fits with our goals!
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 into the right hands. Plus, it shows us that you’re serious about joining our team at Newcastle University.
How to prepare for a job interview at Newcastle University
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of power distribution networks and low-carbon technologies. Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in PEDs and LCTs, as well as the specific projects like D-Suite and SOLACE. This will show that you're genuinely interested and prepared for the role.
✨Prepare for the Task
Since candidates will be asked to complete a half-day task before the interview, take this seriously! Review the example task provided and practice similar problems. This will help you feel more confident and ready to showcase your skills during the interview.
✨Show Your Collaborative Spirit
This role emphasises collaboration with industry partners, so be ready to discuss your past experiences working in teams. Share examples of how you've contributed to group projects and how you can bring that collaborative mindset to Newcastle University.
✨Communicate Clearly
You’ll need to present complex information effectively, so practice explaining your research or technical concepts in simple terms. Think about how you would communicate your ideas to different audiences, from engineers to the general public, and be prepared to demonstrate this during the interview.