Research Fellow in Energy and Transport Modelling(UK Visa Sponsorship)
Job Description
About the Research Environment
The UCL Energy Institute hosts a globally recognised research group dedicated to the decarbonisation of the shipping sector. The group brings together expertise in energy systems modelling, big data analytics, and social science to address the technical, commercial, and policy challenges of transitioning global shipping to a zero-emissions future.
The group’s work is grounded in robust modelling and high-quality data, enabling three core strengths:
- Using large-scale shipping data to identify the drivers of maritime emissions
- Developing system-level models to explore pathways towards zero-emission shipping
- Translating technical research into actionable insights for policymakers and industry leaders
- This research directly supports the Institute’s mission to accelerate the transition to an equitable and globally sustainable energy system.
About the TransiT Programme
UCL is a core partner in TransiT, a major UK research hub focused on digital twinning for transport decarbonisation. Funded through UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and industry investment totalling £46 million, TransiT brings together eight leading universities and more than 60 industry partners.
As one of the UK’s largest strategic investments in digital twinning, TransiT plays a central role in building national capability for modelling and simulation of critical transport networks and services.
About the Role
We are seeking a Research Fellow in Energy and Transport Modelling to lead the digital twin modelling of maritime transport (freight and passenger) as part of the TransiT consortium.
Based within the Shipping and Oceans Research Group at the UCL Energy Institute, you will play a key role in designing, developing, and implementing digital twin models that support maritime decarbonisation. The role combines technical leadership with collaboration across a diverse, multi-university research network.
You will work closely with researchers, software developers, policymakers, and industry partners to ensure that digital twin tools are robust, scalable, accessible, and maintainable. In addition, you will contribute to ongoing modelling work on shipping emissions and, where appropriate, support commercial and policy consultancy projects.
The role is funded until 31 December 2027, with the potential for further funding.
Key Responsibilities
In this role, you will:
- Lead the development of digital twin models for maritime transport decarbonisation
- Design and implement software architectures that enable large-scale simulation and scenario analysis
- Contribute to shipping emissions modelling and system-level energy analyses
- Collaborate across disciplines, including engineering, data science, economics, and social science
- Communicate complex modelling outputs to academic, policy, and industry audiences
- Support MSc teaching and PhD supervision within the shipping research group
- Work to agreed milestones and deliver high-quality research outputs within consortium timelines
About You
You will be a motivated and technically skilled researcher who thrives in collaborative environments. You will have:
- A PhD in energy systems, engineering, data analytics, quantitative methods, mathematics, or a related discipline
- Strong programming experience (e.g. Python, R, MATLAB, or similar)
- Experience with simulation, optimisation, or system modelling
- Advanced data handling skills, including statistics or machine learning techniques
- The ability to integrate knowledge across disciplines and work effectively in large research teams
- Strong organisational skills, with the ability to meet deadlines while maintaining research quality
International Applicants and Visas
UCL holds a licence to sponsor eligible international applicants under UK Visas and Immigration regulations. This role may be eligible for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa, subject to meeting the relevant criteria.
Global Talent visa (research route)
Working in the UK – right to work guidance
What We Offer
UCL offers a competitive and comprehensive benefits package to support your professional and personal wellbeing, including:
- 41 days’ leave (annual leave, bank holidays, and closure days)
- Option to purchase up to 5 additional days’ annual leave
- CARE defined-benefit pension scheme
- Cycle to Work scheme and season ticket loan
- Immigration loan support
- Relocation assistance for eligible posts
- On-site nursery and gym facilities
- Enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption pay
- Employee Assistance Programme (Staff Support Service)
- Discounted medical insurance
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
As London’s Global University, UCL is committed to fostering a fair, inclusive, and welcoming environment where diverse perspectives are valued. We actively encourage applications from individuals who are underrepresented in higher education and research, including Black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates, disabled people, LGBTQI+ individuals, and women in senior roles.
The department holds an Athena SWAN Silver Award, recognising sustained progress in advancing gender equality.
How to Apply
A full job description and person specification are available via the vacancy webpage.
