At a Glance
- Tasks: Research the political economy of net zero and analyse decarbonisation pathways.
- Company: Join the Environmental Change Institute at Oxford University.
- Benefits: Engage in impactful research with opportunities for academic publications and policy influence.
- Other info: Fixed term until May 2029, full-time role with collaborative research environment.
- Why this job: Shape the UK's transition to net zero and contribute to a sustainable future.
- Qualifications: PhD/DPhil in a relevant field with strong analytical and research skills.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
Join a major UKRI Future Leaders Fellowship project exploring how the UK can deliver a fair and effective transition to net zero. Based at the Environmental Change Institute, this role focuses on rethinking the political economy of decarbonisation across key sectors including energy, housing, transport, and food.
Working with Dr Donal Brown, you will play a central role in delivering a core work package examining how ownership structures, governance systems, business models, and value logics shape the outcomes and public legitimacy of the net zero transition. Your research will combine political economy, economic history, sociology, and sustainability studies to analyse current decarbonisation pathways and explore alternative models capable of delivering more equitable social and environmental outcomes.
You will undertake mixed‑methods research, including literature and policy analysis, interviews with policymakers and industry stakeholders, and the development of conceptual frameworks around a “new political economy of net zero.” You will contribute to high‑quality academic publications and policy‑relevant outputs, and engage in wider debates on sustainability transitions.
You will hold, or be close to completion of, a PhD/DPhil in a relevant field and bring strong analytical and research skills, including experience with qualitative methods and interdisciplinary work. The ability to communicate complex ideas clearly to both academic and policy audiences, and to work collaboratively within a research team, is essential.
Candidates should submit a CV (including key publications) and a two‑page cover letter outlining how their background and experience make them suitable for the role, and how they would conceptualise the political economic challenges facing the UK’s net zero transition.
This is an opportunity to contribute to a high‑profile research programme shaping how the UK navigates the social, economic, and political challenges of achieving net zero. This post is fixed term until 31 May 2029 and offered on a full time basis (1 FTE / 37.5 hours).
Postdoctoral Researcher in the Political Economy of Net Zero employer: UK Energy Research Centre
The Environmental Change Institute at the University of Oxford offers an exceptional work environment for a Postdoctoral Researcher in the Political Economy of Net Zero, fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation. With access to world-class resources and a commitment to impactful research, employees are encouraged to grow professionally through interdisciplinary projects that address pressing global challenges. Located in the vibrant city of Oxford, this role not only provides a platform for meaningful contributions to sustainability transitions but also allows for engagement with leading experts and policymakers in the field.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Researcher in the Political Economy of Net Zero
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those connected to the Environmental Change Institute. Attend seminars, workshops, or conferences where you can meet potential collaborators and mentors. Remember, it’s all about who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into the political economy of net zero. Familiarise yourself with current debates and challenges in decarbonisation. We want you to showcase your knowledge and passion during those crucial conversations!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply; engage! When you submit your application through our website, follow up with a friendly email expressing your enthusiasm for the role. It shows initiative and keeps you on their radar.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your interdisciplinary skills! Highlight any experience you have that combines political economy, sociology, and sustainability studies. We want to see how you can bring diverse perspectives to the table in tackling the net zero transition.
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Researcher in the Political Economy of Net Zero
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role. Highlight your relevant experience in political economy, decarbonisation, and any mixed-methods research you've done. We want to see how your background aligns with our project!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should be a two-page masterpiece! Clearly outline how your skills and experiences make you a perfect fit for this role. Don’t forget to discuss your thoughts on the political economic challenges of the net zero transition.
Showcase Your Research Skills:We’re looking for strong analytical and research skills, so be sure to mention any qualitative methods you’ve used. If you’ve published any papers or contributed to projects, let us know – it’ll make your application stand out!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at UK Energy Research Centre
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the political economy of decarbonisation. Brush up on current literature and policy debates related to net zero, especially in sectors like energy and transport. This will help you demonstrate your expertise and show that you’re genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
Be ready to discuss your previous research experiences, particularly any mixed-methods work you've done. Highlight how your analytical skills and familiarity with qualitative methods can contribute to the project. Prepare examples that illustrate your ability to tackle complex issues and develop conceptual frameworks.
✨Communicate Clearly
Practice explaining complex ideas in simple terms. You’ll need to convey your thoughts effectively to both academic and policy audiences. Consider preparing a few key points or anecdotes that showcase your ability to communicate your research findings clearly and engagingly.
✨Collaborative Spirit
Emphasise your experience working in teams and your collaborative approach to research. Be prepared to discuss how you’ve successfully worked with others in the past, and how you plan to engage with Dr Donal Brown and other team members to achieve the project’s goals.
