At a Glance
- Tasks: Collaborate with community groups and energy advisors to create engaging educational materials.
- Company: Join the University of Edinburgh's innovative Earth Initiative team.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible work options, and access to personal development opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team tackling climate change and promoting equality.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainability while working in a dynamic, creative environment.
- Qualifications: Current PhD student with skills in design, communication, and community engagement.
The predicted salary is between 41064 - 41064 £ per year.
UE07: £41,064.00 Per Annum, Pro Rata (£22.19 per hour). CSG / Edinburgh Earth Initiative and Energy Demand Research Centre. Part Time - 9 hours per week. Fixed-term for 7 months from August 2026.
The School of Sociology and Energy Demand Research Centre are looking for a PhD student to work on a project aimed at bringing together community interest groups with energy advisors to develop novel approaches to learning and communicating about energy. This 7-month project will focus on co-creating a zine with community members and energy advisors.
Please refer to the project brief and the skills listed below when outlining your skills and experience in your application.
Your skills and attributes for success:
- Current University of Edinburgh PhD student in the ‘25/’26 academic year and expecting to continue into the ‘26/’27 academic year.
- Experience in illustration, graphic design and video production, and an interest in applying these skills to support sustainability goals.
- Experience in co-creation and community art work, or in mentoring others to make artwork.
- Confident and approachable communicator, comfortable speaking to individuals and groups from different backgrounds and ages.
- Organised and reliable, with the ability to manage tasks that vary across events, engagement and light communications.
- Experience working in an energy or sustainability context (desirable but not essential).
- Experience in evaluating activities through short surveys and interviews (desirable but not essential).
As an Earth Fellow, you will be joining a diverse, fun and dynamic team of researchers, students and staff all working together to address the global climate emergency. As part of the Earth Fellows programme, you will have access to co-working space, exciting networking and personal development opportunities and opportunities to contribute towards partnerships and solutions for climate change on a global scale.
Earth Fellows work on individual and team-based projects which contribute to the University of Edinburgh and Edinburgh Earth Initiative’s work on climate change research-led impact, innovation, engagement, and teaching.
As a valued member of our team, you can expect:
- A competitive salary.
- 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. The University of Edinburgh holds a Silver Athena SWAN award in recognition of our commitment to advance gender equality in higher education. We are members of the Race Equality Charter, and we are also Stonewall Scotland Diversity Champions, actively promoting LGBT equality.
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 11 June 2026. Unless stated otherwise, the closing time for applications is 11:59 pm (UK time).
Earth Fellow: empowering energy advice in Edinburgh employer: University of Edinburgh
The University of Edinburgh offers a unique opportunity for PhD students to engage in meaningful work as an Earth Fellow, contributing to innovative projects that address climate change. With a vibrant and diverse community, comprehensive staff benefits, and a commitment to equality and inclusion, this role provides not only competitive remuneration but also invaluable networking and personal development opportunities in a supportive environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Earth Fellow: empowering energy advice in Edinburgh
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the team and the project! Before your interview, do a bit of research on the Edinburgh Earth Initiative and the specific goals of the Earth Fellow role. This will help us see your genuine interest and how you can contribute.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your creative side! Since this role involves co-creating a zine, bring examples of your graphic design or illustration work to the interview. We love seeing how you can apply your skills to sustainability!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! As a confident communicator, you'll need to engage with diverse groups. Try role-playing common interview questions with friends to get comfortable expressing your ideas.
✨Tip Number 4
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 the University of Edinburgh.
We think you need these skills to ace Earth Fellow: empowering energy advice in Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Project Brief:Before you start writing, make sure to read the project brief thoroughly. It’s packed with info on what we’re looking for, so tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the project goals.
Show Off Your Skills:Don’t be shy! Use your application to showcase your experience in illustration, graphic design, and community art work. We want to see how you can bring your creative flair to the table, so give us examples of your past work!
Be Yourself:We’re all about diversity and inclusion, so let your personality shine through in your application. Share your passion for sustainability and energy advice, and don’t forget to mention any unique perspectives you can bring to our team.
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of everything, and we want to make sure your application gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Edinburgh
✨Know Your Project Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the project brief and the goals of the Earth Fellow role. Familiarise yourself with the key tasks and deliverables, as well as how your skills in illustration, graphic design, and community engagement can contribute to the project.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a confident and approachable communicator, be prepared to discuss your experiences in engaging with diverse groups. Think of examples where you've successfully communicated complex ideas or facilitated discussions, especially in a community or sustainability context.
✨Demonstrate Your Organisational Skills
The role requires managing various tasks across events and communications. Be ready to share specific instances where you've effectively organised projects or events, highlighting your reliability and ability to juggle multiple responsibilities.
✨Emphasise Your Passion for Sustainability
Express your genuine interest in sustainability and energy issues during the interview. Share any relevant experiences or projects that showcase your commitment to these areas, and how you envision contributing to the University of Edinburgh's climate change initiatives.
