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- Tasks: Lead research on sustainable cooling solutions for displaced populations facing extreme heat.
- Company: Join the University of Edinburgh, a world-class institution with a vibrant community.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and comprehensive staff benefits.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on global challenges while developing your career in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in built environment research and teamwork; willingness to learn thermal modelling.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team driving innovative solutions for climate resilience.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 50000 £ per year.
Edinburgh - Kings Buildings, Midlothian, United Kingdom (Hybrid working)
Job Info
- Job Identification: 13902
- Locations: King's Buildings Centre, Edinburgh, EH9 3JF, GB (Hybrid working)
- Organization: Edinburgh University Group
- Department: Institute for Infrastructure and Environment
- Apply Before: 03/25/2026, 11:59 PM
- Contract Type: Fixed Term
- Work Duration: 10 Months
- Job Schedule: Full time
- Grade: UE07
- Number of Openings: 1
- Job Function: Researcher
School of Engineering / Institute for Infrastructure and Environment
Full-time: 35 hours per week
Fixed-term: to 31st December 2026
The SCALA project seeks to accelerate the translation and impact of research to increase the resilience of displaced populations to extreme heat. Building on our track record and latest developments in the sector, the RA will lead work to establish cooling potential of interventions that can be rolled out under the opportunities and constraints of humanitarian and development responses.
Your skills and attributes for success:
- Experience working in the built environment and climate/structure interactions;
- Ability to work collaboratively within interdisciplinary teams;
- Experience using or willingness to learn and employ bespoke building thermal modelling.
This post is full-time (35 hours per week); however, we are open to considering flexible working patterns. We are also open to considering requests for hybrid working (on a non-contractual basis) that combines a mix of remote and regular on-campus working.
As a valued member of our team, you can expect:
- An exciting, positive, creative, challenging and rewarding place to work.
- To be part of a diverse and vibrant international community.
- Comprehensive Staff Benefits, including generous annual leave entitlement, a defined benefits pension scheme, a wide range of staff discounts, family-friendly initiatives, and flexible work options.
Championing equality, diversity, and inclusion.
Prior to any employment commencing with the University, you will be required to evidence your right to work in the UK. Further information is available on our right to work webpages.
On this occasion the University will not consider applicants requiring sponsorship for this role. International workers will therefore only be able to take up this role if they can demonstrate an alternative right to work in the UK.
Key dates to note: The closing date for applications is 25th March 2026.
About Us: As a world-leading research-intensive University, we are here to address tomorrow’s greatest challenges. Between now and 2030 we will do that with a values-led approach to teaching, research and innovation, and through the strength of our relationships, both locally and globally.
About the Team: Engineering has been taught at Edinburgh in one form or another since 1673. In 2002, the present School of Engineering was formed from the previously existing departments of Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electronics and Electrical Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering. Since then, the School has grown from strength to strength, growing rapidly in the last 5 years, now having the largest number of students among the seven Schools in the College of Science and Engineering, offering undergraduate degree programmes across all disciplines and taught Masters courses in niche areas. All of the undergraduate degree programmes are accredited by the relevant professional institutions.
The School of Engineering addresses diverse complex challenges across the entire field of engineering, at the micro- and macro/global scales. At the microscopic scale, its research supports the design and deployment of novel nanotechnology and devices for biological monitoring and medical diagnosis; at the macro/global scale, it optimises the security and sustainability of the built environment and develops engineering solutions to climate change issues.
The School has a strong track record in producing more than 50 technology spin-outs and developing industry links that enable our graduates to build career-long relationships. Current research income in the School was c.£22.0M in 2020/21.
We aim to ensure that our culture and systems support flexible and family-friendly working and recognise and value diversity across all our staff and students. The School has an active programme offering support and professional development for all staff; providing mentoring, training, and networking opportunities.
The School of Engineering holds a bronze Athena SWAN award, in recognition of our commitment to advance gender equality in higher education & research.
Research Associate in Sustainable Cooling employer: The University of Edinburgh
Contact Detail:
The University of Edinburgh Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate in Sustainable Cooling
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, attend events, and connect with alumni from your university. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Understand their values and how your skills align with their goals. This will help you stand out and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to get comfortable with common questions. The more you practice, the more confident you'll feel when it’s time to shine in front of the real interviewers.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate in Sustainable Cooling
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Research Associate role. Highlight your experience in the built environment and any relevant projects that showcase your skills in climate/structure interactions.
Show Your Passion: Let us see your enthusiasm for sustainable cooling and how it aligns with our mission at the University of Edinburgh. Share any personal projects or research that demonstrate your commitment to making a difference in this field.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon unless it's necessary. We want to understand your qualifications without wading through unnecessary fluff!
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 The University of Edinburgh
✨Know Your Research
Before the interview, dive deep into the SCALA project and its objectives. Familiarise yourself with the latest developments in sustainable cooling and how they relate to humanitarian efforts. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you articulate how your skills align with their goals.
✨Showcase Collaboration Skills
Since the role requires working within interdisciplinary teams, prepare examples from your past experiences where you successfully collaborated with others. Highlight how you contributed to team success and how you can bring that collaborative spirit to the University of Edinburgh.
✨Demonstrate Technical Proficiency
Brush up on your knowledge of building thermal modelling and any relevant software tools. Be ready to discuss your experience or willingness to learn these skills. If you have specific examples of projects where you applied these techniques, share them during the interview.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the role, the team, and the future of the SCALA project. This shows your enthusiasm and helps you gauge if the position is the right fit for you. Consider asking about the challenges they face in implementing sustainable cooling solutions and how you could contribute.