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

Job Description

About the UCL Energy Institute and Shipping Research

The UCL Energy Institute is internationally recognised for research that supports the transition to a low-carbon and socially equitable energy system. One of its flagship research areas is the decarbonisation of maritime transport, where researchers combine large-scale data analysis, modelling, and policy research to inform global shipping reform.

The Shipping and Oceans Research Group applies advanced modelling, big data analytics and social science methods to understand emissions drivers, evaluate zero-emissions pathways, and provide evidence-based insights for policymakers and industry leaders. This work supports international climate commitments, including those aligned with the UK’s Net Zero strategy

About the Transit Programme

UCL is a core partner in Transit, a major UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) funded national hub focused on digital twinning for transport decarbonization. Transit brings together eight universities and more than 60 industry partners, supported by a combined investment of £46 million.

As one of the UK’s largest strategic investments in digital twinning, Transit supports national capability-building in modelling critical transport networks and aligns with UK infrastructure and innovation priorities

About the Role

UCL is seeking a Research Fellow in Energy and Transport Modelling to lead digital twin development for maritime transport decarbonization within the Transit consortium.

Based in the Shipping and Oceans Research Group at the UCL Energy Institute, the post holder will design and develop modelling frameworks that simulate freight and passenger shipping systems under different decarbonization scenarios. The role combines software development, systems modelling, and interdisciplinary collaboration, ensuring digital twin solutions are robust, scalable, and accessible across partner institutions.

You will work under the academic leadership of Dr Tristan Smith and Dr Nishatabbas Rehmatulla, and contribute to both research-led modelling and applied consultancy work supporting policy and industry stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead digital twin modelling for maritime transport decarbonisation
• Design and develop simulation and optimisation models for shipping systems
• Build and maintain software architectures that support collaborative research
• Integrate large-scale shipping datasets using advanced data analytics techniques
• Collaborate across TransiT’s multidisciplinary teams to ensure model usability
• Support research on shipping emissions, energy transitions and scenario analysis
• Contribute to policy-focused and commercial consultancy projects where appropriate
• Support MSc teaching and PhD supervision within the shipping research group
• Ensure research outputs align with UK research governance and innovation standards

Person Specification

Essential Criteria

• PhD in energy systems, engineering, mathematics, data analytics, quantitative methods or a closely related discipline
• Strong research experience involving computational modelling and programming
• Proficiency in one or more programming languages (e.g. Python, R, MATLAB)
• Experience with simulation, optimisation or systems modelling
• Ability to manage complex research tasks and meet project deadlines
• Strong analytical skills and ability to work across disciplinary boundaries
• Excellent communication skills for technical and non-technical audiences

Desirable Experience

• Experience applying machine learning or advanced statistical techniques
• Familiarity with transport, shipping or energy system modelling
• Experience contributing to policy-relevant or industry-facing research
• Understanding of digital twins in infrastructure or transport systems

Contract and Funding

This is a fixed-term post funded until 31 December 2027, with the possibility of extension subject to funding availability. The role will commence on 1 January 2026.

Visa Sponsorship

UCL holds a sponsor licence and welcomes applications from international candidates who require permission to work in the UK, subject to eligibility under UK Visas and Immigration legislation

Salary and Benefits

UCL offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package, including:

• Salary of £43,981 – £52,586 per annum
• 41 days’ annual leave (including bank holidays and closure days)
• Defined benefit CARE pension scheme
• Additional annual leave purchase scheme
• Cycle to Work scheme and season ticket loans
• 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 creating a fair, inclusive and supportive environment where diversity is recognised as a strength. We actively encourage applications from individuals who are under-represented in academia, including people from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds, disabled people, LGBTQI+ individuals, and women in senior academic roles.

The department holds an Athena SWAN Silver Award, reflecting sustained commitment to advancing gender equality. UCL’s approach aligns with the principles of the Equality Act 2010

How to Apply

• Applicants should submit:
• A current CV
• A completed online application

A supporting statement or cover letter addressing the essential criteria