Research Fellow in Energy and Transport Modelling(UK Visa Sponsorship)
Job Description
About the UCL Energy Institute
The UCL Energy Institute is internationally recognised for research that supports the transition to a low-carbon, equitable, and resilient global energy system. One of its flagship research areas is shipping decarbonisation, where multidisciplinary teams combine energy modelling, big data analytics, and social science to address emissions from maritime transport.
The Shipping and Oceans Research Group leads cutting-edge work on:
- Understanding the drivers of shipping emissions using large-scale datasets
- Modelling pathways to zero-emission maritime transport
- Translating research insights into actionable guidance for policymakers and industry leaders
- This work aligns closely with UK and international climate policy, including the UK’s statutory Net Zero 2050 target
The TransiT Research Hub
UCL is a core partner in TransiT, a national research hub focused on digital twinning for transport decarbonisation, funded through UK Research and Innovation (UKRI). TransiT brings together:
- 8 leading UK universities
- 67 industry partners
- £46 million in combined EPSRC and stakeholder investment
- The hub forms part of the UK’s strategic investment in digital infrastructure and modelling for critical transport systems
About the Role
We are seeking a Research Fellow in Energy and Transport Modelling to lead digital twin development for maritime freight and passenger transport within the TransiT consortium.
Based within the Shipping and Oceans Research Group at the UCL Energy Institute, you will take ownership of modelling approaches that support maritime decarbonisation, while contributing to broader shipping emissions analysis and consultancy-style policy work.
You will work closely with academic researchers, software developers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to ensure digital twin tools are robust, usable, and impactful.
Key Responsibilities
In this role, you will:
- Lead the design and implementation of digital twin models for maritime transport systems
- Develop scalable software architectures to support simulation and scenario analysis
- Apply energy system, transport, and emissions modelling techniques
- Integrate large and complex datasets, including operational and emissions data
- Collaborate across multidisciplinary TransiT research teams
- Contribute to policy-focused and commercial research projects
- Support MSc teaching and PhD supervision within the shipping research group
- Communicate results clearly to academic, industry, and policy audiences
- Your work will directly inform UK and international efforts to decarbonise shipping in line with national transport and climate strategies
Person Specification
Essential Criteria
You will have:
- A PhD in energy systems, transport modelling, engineering, mathematics, data science, or a related discipline
- Strong programming skills in Python, R, MATLAB, or similar languages
- Experience with simulation, optimisation, or systems modelling
- Expertise in advanced data analysis techniques (e.g. statistics, machine learning)
- Ability to work to deadlines while delivering high-quality research outputs
- Experience working effectively in multidisciplinary research environments
- An interest in maritime transport, climate policy, or infrastructure systems is highly desirable.
Visa and Right to Work
UCL is a licensed sponsor and welcomes applications from international candidates who require immigration permission under UK Visas and Immigration rules, including:
Global Talent visa (research route)
All appointments are subject to UK Right to Work checks
Salary and Benefits
UCL offers a highly competitive benefits package, including:
- 41 days’ leave per year (annual leave, bank holidays, and closure days)
- Option to purchase additional annual leave
- Defined benefit CARE pension scheme
- Cycle to Work scheme and season ticket loan
- Immigration loan and relocation support (where applicable)
- On-site nursery and gym facilities
- Enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption pay
- Employee Assistance Programme and wellbeing services
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
UCL is committed to building an inclusive academic community where diverse perspectives drive innovation. Our practices align with the Equality Act 2010, ensuring fair treatment and accessibility for all
We particularly encourage applications from candidates underrepresented in academia, including individuals from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, disabled researchers, LGBTQI+ communities, and women.
How to Apply
Please submit:
- A completed online application form
- A current CV
- A supporting statement outlining how you meet the role criteria
