Research Fellow in Energy and Transport Modelling(UK Visa Sponsorship)

Job Description

About the UCL Energy Institute

The UCL Energy Institute hosts an internationally recognised research group dedicated to the decarbonisation of the global shipping sector. The Shipping and Oceans Research Group combines system modelling, large-scale shipping datasets, and social science analysis to understand how policy, markets, and technology interact across maritime transport.

The group’s work focuses on three interconnected areas:

• Using big data to identify the drivers of shipping emissions
• Developing system-level models to explore credible pathways to zero-emission shipping
• Translating complex analysis into insights for policy makers and industry leaders
• This work contributes directly to the Institute’s wider mission of accelerating the transition to an equitable and sustainable global energy system.

About the Programme

UCL is a core partner in TransiT, a major UK research hub focused on digital twinning for transport decarbonisation. TransiT brings together eight leading universities and more than 60 industry partners, supported by a £46 million investment from UK Research and Innovation (UKRI).

As one of the UK’s largest investments in digital twinning, TransiT aims to strengthen national capability in modelling and simulating critical transport networks to support evidence-based decarbonisation strategies.

About the Role

We are recruiting a Research Fellow in Energy and Transport Modelling to lead the digital twin modelling of maritime transport systems within the TransiT consortium.

Based within the Shipping and Oceans Research Group at the UCL Energy Institute, you will play a central role in designing and delivering advanced digital twin and simulation tools for freight and passenger shipping decarbonisation. The role combines technical model development with collaborative research, ensuring that digital twin approaches are accessible, robust, and scalable across the wider consortium.

You will work closely with Dr Tristan Smith and Dr Nishatabbas Rehmatulla, and collaborate with engineers, data scientists, economists, social scientists, industry partners, and policy stakeholders. Where appropriate, you will also contribute to consultancy-style research supporting commercial and policy decision-making, and help mentor MSc and PhD students within the shipping group.

The post is funded until 31 December 2027, with the potential for extension subject to funding availability.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development of digital twin models for maritime transport decarbonisation
• Design and implement simulation and optimisation tools to explore future shipping pathways
• Develop and maintain software architectures that support collaborative, long-term research use
• Integrate emissions modelling with operational, economic, and policy scenarios
• Collaborate across a large, multi-institution research consortium
• Contribute to academic publications, policy outputs, and stakeholder engagement
• Support postgraduate teaching and supervision within the shipping and energy systems domain

About You

You will be a motivated researcher who enjoys working at the interface of data, modelling, and real-world impact.

Essential Criteria

• A PhD in energy systems, transport, data analytics, quantitative methods, engineering, mathematics, or a closely related field
• Strong programming experience using tools such as Python, R, MATLAB, or similar
• Experience with simulation, optimisation, or systems modelling
• Familiarity with advanced data handling techniques, including machine learning or statistical analysis
• Ability to manage deadlines while delivering high-quality research outputs
• Confidence working in multidisciplinary research environments and integrating insights across disciplines

Salary and Benefits

• You will be appointed at UCL Grade 7, with a salary range of £43,981 – £52,586 per annum, inclusive of London Allowance.
• UCL offers an extensive benefits package designed to support wellbeing, career development, and work–life balance.

Benefits include:

• 41 days’ annual leave (27 days annual leave, 8 public holidays, 6 closure days)
• Option to purchase up to 5 additional days’ leave
• Membership of a defined benefit CARE pension schem
• Cycle to Work scheme and season ticket loan
• Immigration loan support
• Relocation assistance for eligible roles
• On-site nursery and gym facilities
• Enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption pay
• Employee Assistance Programme (Staff Support Service)
• Discounted medical insurance

Visa and International Applicants

UCL is licensed to sponsor skilled international researchers under UK Visas and Immigration routes, subject to eligibility

International applicants are warmly encouraged to apply.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

UCL is committed to creating a fair, inclusive, and supportive working environment where diverse perspectives strengthen research and innovation. This commitment aligns with the Equality Act 2010

The department holds an Athena SWAN Silver Award, recognising sustained progress in advancing gender equality. We particularly welcome applications from individuals who are under-represented in academic research, including people from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds, disabled people, LGBTQI+ individuals, and women in senior roles.

How to Apply

Applicants should submit:

• A current CV
• A completed online application form
• A supporting statement outlining how they meet the role criteria