Research Assistant or Research Fellow in Digital Twin Data Engineering(UK Visa Sponsorship)

Job Description

About the Role

UCL’s Bartlett Faculty of the Built Environment invites applications for a Research Assistant or Research Fellow in Digital Twin Data Engineering, based at the Bartlett School of Sustainable Construction. The successful candidate will contribute to the BLUEPRINT project, developing cutting-edge digital solutions for the built environment.

This role involves research, teaching, and programme administration with a focus on Digital Twin system architecture, building and infrastructure operations modelling, and simulation. Core frameworks include Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Geographic Information Systems (GIS).

This position is an excellent opportunity to collaborate across UCL and engage with academic, public, and industrial stakeholders on sustainable construction and smart city solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead or contribute to research in digital twin data engineering for buildings and infrastructure.
• Develop and implement data architecture, simulation, and modelling frameworks for digital twin systems.
• Generate high-quality publications and communicate research outcomes to academic and non-academic audiences.
• Participate in collaborative research and enterprise activities across UCL and external partners.
• Support departmental and faculty events, outreach initiatives, and student engagement.
• Contribute to continuing professional development, training, and mentoring within the project team.

Candidate Profile

Essential Qualifications and Experience

• PhD in Digital Engineering, Computer Science, Data Science, Civil/Construction Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Experience in applied research and project delivery in a relevant field.
• Strong track record of research publications and, for Research Fellow level, evidence of securing research funding.
• Expertise in Digital Twin technologies, BIM, GIS, and data-driven modelling.
• Excellent stakeholder engagement and collaboration skills.
• Ability to work in a diverse, multicultural academic environment.

Research Assistant Option

• Candidates close to completing a PhD may apply as Research Assistant (Grade 6B): starting salary £39,148 including London Allowance.
• Appointment to Research Fellow can be backdated upon successful PhD completion.

Eligibility & Visa Information

• Research Fellow: eligible for Skilled Worker Visa or Global Talent Visa – Skilled Worker Visa
  , Global Talent Visa
• Research Assistant: eligible for Global Talent Visa.
• UCL encourages international applicants requiring sponsorship.

Benefits

• 41 days annual leave (27 days + 8 bank holidays + 6 closure days) with option to purchase 5 extra days.
• Defined Benefit Pension Scheme (CARE) – Public Sector Pensions Guidance
• Cycle-to-Work Scheme – gov.uk Cycle-to-Work Scheme
• Season ticket loans for public transport
• On-site nursery and gym facilities
• Enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption pay
• Employee Assistance Programme and discounted medical insurance
• Flexible working and job-share arrangements where feasible

About The Bartlett Faculty of the Built Environment

• The Bartlett is UCL’s globally recognised faculty for the built environment, ranked #1 worldwide in Built Environment studies.
• Houses 12 Schools, Centres, and Institutes delivering education and research across construction, architecture, urban planning, and sustainable infrastructure.
• The faculty is committed to integrating technology, sustainability, and social impact in all research and teaching initiatives.

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

UCL values diversity and inclusivity and encourages applications from groups underrepresented in STEMM fields, including:

• Black, Asian, and ethnic minority candidates
• Disabled applicants
• LGBTQI+ and gender-diverse individuals
• Women in senior academic roles
• Athena SWAN Silver recognition: Advance HE Athena SWAN

Application Process

• Upload a current CV and complete the online application form.
• Include a cover letter addressing how you meet the essential criteria of the person specification.
• Only submit requested documents; additional files will not be considered.