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- Tasks: Join us to develop cutting-edge optimisation models for renewable energy systems.
- Company: Be part of the University of Edinburgh, a world-leading research institution.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous holidays, and staff discounts.
- Why this job: Contribute to innovative research while collaborating with top universities globally.
- Qualifications: PhD or near completion in relevant fields; experience in energy systems modelling required.
- Other info: Flexible working culture and commitment to diversity and inclusion.
The predicted salary is between 34100 - 40800 £ per year.
Job Description
Grade UE07: £41,064.00 – £48,822.00 per annum
School of Engineering / College of Science & Engineering / Institute for Energy Systems
Full-time: 35 hours per week
Fixed-term: 18 months
We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to join the University of Edinburgh\’s Institute for Energy Systems, contributing to cutting-edge research on digitalised, low-inertia power networks. The role will focus on the development of open-source optimisation models for the GB electricity system with high levels of renewable generation, low system inertia, and increasing offshore integration. The position is initially offered for a fixed term, subject to extension depending on project needs, funding availability, and performance.
The Opportunity:
The successful candidate will focus on developing advanced machine learning and mathematical optimisation frameworks for energy system modelling, particularly under the growing presence of offshore wind energy penetration. The successful candidate will lead the design and implementation of scalable energy system model that enhance grid flexibility, resilience, and economic efficiency.
In parallel, the role will investigate the coordinated management of emerging large and dynamic loads such as data centres, developing strategies to ensure secure and cost-effective integration within modern power networks. The research will incorporate realistic operational constraints, network dynamics, and policy-driven requirements.
The postholder will also benefit from opportunities to visit and collaborate with other world-leading universities and research institutions in the field, enabling further interdisciplinary engagement and international visibility.
This position sits at the interface between power system engineering, artificial intelligence, and mathematical optimisation, and will directly support innovation in the planning and operation of renewable electricity systems. This position is funded by UKRI, as a part of SIF Beta – Network DC Circuit Breakers project.
Your skills and attributes for success:
• A PhD (or near completion) in Electrical Engineering, Control Systems, Data Science, or a related field.
• Proven experience in energy systems modelling, optimisation, or machine learning techniques.
• Publication record appropriate to career stage.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, including cross-disciplinary collaboration.
• Hands-on experience with open-source energy modelling frameworks.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
Click to view a copy of the full job description(opens new browser tab).
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, such as a generous holiday entitlement, competitive pension schemes, staff discounts, and family-friendly initiatives. Check out the full list on our staff benefits page(opens in a new tab) and use our reward calculator to discover the total value of your pay and benefits.
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(opens new browser tab).
The University may be able to sponsor the employment of international workers in this role. This will depend on a number of factors specific to the successful applicant.
Key dates to note
The closing date for applications is 12th September 2025.
Unless stated otherwise the closing time for applications is 11:59pm GMT. If you are applying outside the UK the closing time on our adverts automatically adjusts to your browsers local time zone.
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. In REF 2021 the joint submission from the University of Edinburgh and Heriot-Watt University to General Engineering was ranked 1st in Scotland and 3rd in the UK for quality and breadth of research. The ranking cited is based upon the breadth and quality of research which apply standard formula (as used by the Times Higher Education) to the REF 2021 results.
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.
Further information, including details of undergraduate & postgraduate taught programmes: www.eng.ed.ac.uk #J-18808-Ljbffr
Research Associate in Advanced Energy System Modelling employer: University of Edinburgh
Contact Detail:
University of Edinburgh Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate in Advanced Energy System Modelling
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest advancements in energy systems modelling and optimisation techniques. This will not only help you understand the role better but also allow you to engage in meaningful conversations during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of energy systems and machine learning. Attend relevant conferences or webinars, and connect with researchers from the University of Edinburgh to gain insights and potentially get a referral.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your hands-on experience with open-source energy modelling frameworks by contributing to relevant projects or creating your own. This practical experience can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your publication record and how it relates to the job. Highlight any interdisciplinary collaborations you've been involved in, as this role values cross-disciplinary teamwork.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate in Advanced Energy System Modelling
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in energy systems modelling, optimisation, and machine learning. Use specific examples from your past work or research that align with the job description.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the University of Edinburgh. Discuss how your skills and experiences make you a perfect fit for the position, particularly in developing advanced machine learning frameworks.
Highlight Publications: If you have a publication record, include it in your application. Mention any relevant papers or projects that demonstrate your expertise in energy systems and optimisation techniques.
Showcase Communication Skills: Since excellent communication skills are essential for this role, provide examples of how you've effectively communicated complex ideas in both written and verbal formats, whether through presentations, reports, or collaborative projects.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Edinburgh
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Make sure to highlight your experience with energy systems modelling, optimisation, and machine learning techniques. Be prepared to discuss specific projects or publications that demonstrate your expertise in these areas.
✨Demonstrate Collaborative Spirit
Since the role involves cross-disciplinary collaboration, share examples of how you've successfully worked in teams. Emphasise your ability to communicate effectively with colleagues from different backgrounds.
✨Prepare for Problem-Solving Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills, particularly in relation to energy system challenges. Think about scenarios where you had to develop innovative solutions and be ready to explain your thought process.
✨Research the Institute and Its Projects
Familiarise yourself with the Institute for Energy Systems and its current research projects. Showing knowledge about their work, especially in digitalised power networks and offshore wind energy, will demonstrate your genuine interest in the position.
