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- Tasks: Lead innovative modelling for clean energy investment and integrate natural capital approaches.
- Company: Join a top research team at the University of Strathclyde, renowned for energy systems.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, academic freedom, and impactful research opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the energy transition while advancing your academic career.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant field and strong analytical skills.
- Other info: Collaborate with industry leaders and contribute to sustainable energy solutions.
The predicted salary is between 37694 - 46049 ÂŁ per year.
FTE: 1 (35 hours/week)
Term: Fixed Term (18 months)
Salary: Grade 7: £37,694 – £46,049 Grade 8: £47,389 – £58,225
Closing date: 30/03/2026
Realisation of a resilient low carbon energy system at least cost depends on where energy conversion facilities such as electricity generation or hydrogen manufacture are developed to make use of different resources and on the development of shared infrastructure to enable energy users’ access to those resources. However, it also depends on physical facilities being specified and built in such a way as to respect natural environments and local communities’ priorities for landscapes.
Together, these objectives add up to a complex and challenging optimisation problem encompassing how to prioritise new investment in clean energy production and transmission infrastructure to meet growing demand for electricity as part of satisfying legislated carbon budgets at lowest cost whilst respecting constraints on land use and taking account of natural capital.
A project being undertaken by an inter-disciplinary team through the UK Energy Research Centre’s research theme on “Delivering Energy Infrastructure” postulates that fast, clear signalling of energy system options and development needs and facilitation of understanding of the impacts of uncertainty can be achieved by novel, scalable modelling that is approximate but nevertheless takes account of a wide range of factors. Moreover, it builds on prior work by the contributing teams: energy system modelling at University of Strathclyde, and modelling of natural capital and ecosystem services at University of Exeter and Plymouth Marine Lab.
A Post-Doctoral Research Fellow or Associate is sought to join the research team at University of Strathclyde led by the holder of the Scottish Power Chair in Future Power Systems, Prof Keith Bell, and lead the development of new energy system investment modelling and integration of collaborators’ approaches to representation of natural capital.
The Research Fellow or Assistant will join one of the UK’s leading electrical energy and power systems research groups, part of an internationally recognised department at Strathclyde that has both strong links with industry, government and regulators, and excellent academic credentials. This position therefore offers not only the freedom to express curiosity and generate and share knowledge in an academic research career but also the opportunity to make a difference to industrial practice and policy and to further the energy transition in a material way.
Formal interviews for this post will be held in April 2026.
Informal enquiries about the post can be directed to Prof Keith Bell, Scottish Power Professor of Future Power Systems (keith.bell@strath.ac.uk).
Find out more and apply.
Post-doctoral Research Associate/Fellow: practical methods for spatial energy system planning employer: UK Energy Research Centre (UKERC)
Contact Detail:
UK Energy Research Centre (UKERC) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Post-doctoral Research Associate/Fellow: practical methods for spatial energy system planning
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the energy sector, especially those involved in spatial planning and energy systems. Attend conferences or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have a lead on your dream job!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio or presentation that highlights your research and projects related to energy systems. This can be a great conversation starter during interviews and shows you’re serious about making an impact in the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your responses. Focus on articulating how your background aligns with the goals of the research team at Strathclyde, especially regarding low carbon energy systems.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got a streamlined application process that makes it easy for you to showcase your qualifications. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to join a leading research group – get your application in before the deadline!
We think you need these skills to ace Post-doctoral Research Associate/Fellow: practical methods for spatial energy system planning
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience in energy system modelling and natural capital. We want to see how your skills align with the specific needs of the role, so don’t hold back!
Showcase Your Research Skills: In your application, emphasise your research background and any previous projects that relate to clean energy production or optimisation problems. We’re looking for someone who can demonstrate their ability to tackle complex challenges.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to convey your ideas and avoid jargon unless necessary. We appreciate clarity as much as complexity!
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 seen by the right people. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at UK Energy Research Centre (UKERC)
✨Know Your Research
Dive deep into the specifics of the project and the research team's previous work. Familiarise yourself with the energy system modelling techniques used at the University of Strathclyde and how they relate to natural capital. This will show your genuine interest and understanding of the role.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions that assess your knowledge of spatial energy system planning and optimisation problems. Brush up on relevant methodologies and be ready to discuss how you would approach complex modelling tasks, especially in relation to clean energy production and infrastructure.
✨Showcase Your Collaboration Skills
This position involves working with an inter-disciplinary team, so be prepared to discuss your experience in collaborative projects. Highlight any past work where you integrated different approaches or worked with diverse stakeholders, as this will demonstrate your ability to contribute effectively to the team.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the research direction, team dynamics, and how your role will impact the energy transition. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the team and project align with your career goals.