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- Tasks: Conduct innovative research on air-conditioning demand and its socio-technical impacts.
- Company: Join a leading university committed to diversity and sustainability.
- Benefits: Flexible working arrangements, part-time hours, and a supportive research environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in tackling climate change through cutting-edge research.
- Qualifications: Near or completed PhD with strong research skills in energy use.
- Other info: Collaborate with experts and contribute to a vital project for the future.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
Overview
Part time, Fixed Term (6 months)
Closing date: 23:59 on 5th October 2025
Interview date: 13th October 2025
Applications from job seekers who require sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications. However, non-UK candidates who do not already have permission to work in the UK should note that by reference to the applicable SOC code for this role, sponsorship will not be possible under the Skilled Worker Route. There is further information about this on the UK Visas and Immigration Website.
We are seeking to appoint a Post Doctoral Research Associate (PDRA) for the Residential Air-conditioning Demand Futures (RADFutures) project funded by the Energy Demand Research Centre (EDRC), supported by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC). The position would be suitable for an experienced PDRA or a near completed PhD writing up or undertaking post-viva corrections.
Climate change is already impacting the UK. By 2040, extreme and prolonged periods of heat will become normal summer events. This is expected to drive an unprecedented rise in cooling energy demand, creating a substantial challenge for an affordable, clean, resilient and equitable future UK energy system. The aim of the RADFutures project is to understand the socio-technical characteristics of UK households that have already installed Air Conditioning (AC) and the pathways driving AC adoption. The project will conduct the first socio-technical study of AC in UK homes providing data to understand current and future domestic cooling demand.
The appointee is expected to:
- Undertake quantitative and qualitative research and participate in project reporting and dissemination activities.
Qualifications
- Near or completed PhD or equivalent research experience
- Quantitative and Qualitative research skills
- Knowledge of energy use in buildings
Contact details
Contact Name Dr Rory Jones
Contact Job Title Associate Professor
Contact Email address r.v.jones@reading.ac.uk
Alternative Contact Name Dr Alba Fuertes
Alternative Contact Job Title Associate Professor
Alternative Contact Email address a.fuertes@reading.ac.uk
The University is committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce, supports the gender equality Athena SWAN Charter and the Race Equality Charter, and champions LGBT+ equality. We are a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2). Applications for job-share, part-time and flexible working arrangements are welcomed and will be considered in line with business needs.
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Post Doctoral Research Associate for Residential Air-conditioning Demand Futures (RADFutures) projec employer: University of Reading
Contact Detail:
University of Reading Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Post Doctoral Research Associate for Residential Air-conditioning Demand Futures (RADFutures) projec
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in academia and industry, especially those involved in energy research. A friendly chat can lead to opportunities you might not find on job boards.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into the RADFutures project. Understand its goals and challenges, and think about how your skills can contribute. Show them you’re not just a candidate, but the perfect fit!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After your interview, drop a thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your enthusiasm for the role. It keeps you fresh in their minds.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Post Doctoral Research Associate for Residential Air-conditioning Demand Futures (RADFutures) projec
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Post Doctoral Research Associate role. Highlight your relevant experience in quantitative and qualitative research, and don’t forget to mention any knowledge you have about energy use in buildings!
Show Your Passion: Let us see your enthusiasm for tackling climate change and understanding domestic cooling demand. Share any personal projects or experiences that demonstrate your commitment to this field – it’ll make your application stand out!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We want to understand your qualifications and motivations 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 we receive all your details correctly and can consider you alongside other candidates. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Reading
✨Know Your Research
Make sure you’re well-versed in the RADFutures project and its objectives. Familiarise yourself with the socio-technical aspects of air conditioning in UK households, as well as current trends in energy demand. This will show your genuine interest and understanding of the role.
✨Prepare for Questions
Anticipate questions related to both quantitative and qualitative research methods. Be ready to discuss your previous research experiences and how they relate to the project. Practising your responses can help you articulate your thoughts clearly during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Highlight your knowledge of energy use in buildings and any relevant experience you have. Bring examples of past projects or research that demonstrate your skills and how they align with the requirements of the position.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
Don’t forget that interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the project, team dynamics, and future directions. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the role is the right fit for you.
