Lecturer/Associate Professor in Energy Innovation(UK Sponsorship)
Job Description
Role Overview
University College London (UCL) is seeking to appoint an academic leader in Energy Innovation within the UCL Energy Institute, part of the Bartlett School Environment, Energy & Resources (BEAMS).
This role is designed for an experienced researcher with a strong international profile in energy systems, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and innovation. The successful candidate will contribute to shaping the future of energy research and education, particularly at the intersection of digital technologies and sustainable energy transitions.
The role combines leadership in research, teaching, external engagement, and strategic development of energy innovation activities.
Key Responsibilities
You will play a leading role in advancing research, education, and innovation in energy systems, with responsibilities including:
- Leading interdisciplinary research programmes in energy innovation, AI, and data-driven energy systems
Developing and applying advanced machine learning and AI methods to energy challenges
Translating research into real-world applications across industry, government, and NGOs
Securing competitive research funding and managing large-scale collaborative projects
Building and maintaining international research partnerships
Publishing high-impact research in leading academic journals
Contributing to policy-relevant research on energy transition and sustainability
Teaching and supervising students across undergraduate and postgraduate programmes
Developing and delivering MSc and BSc modules in energy systems, AI, and sustainability
UK energy innovation strategy context
About You
You are an established academic with a strong international reputation in energy innovation and AI-driven research.
You will demonstrate:
- A PhD in energy systems, artificial intelligence, data science, innovation studies, or a closely related discipline
Strong research expertise in AI/ML and advanced analytics applied to energy systems
Experience working with large-scale datasets and computational modelling
Proven ability to translate research into real-world energy solutions
Experience in forecasting, optimisation, simulation, or policy evaluation methods
A strong publication record in high-impact peer-reviewed journals
Experience securing research funding and leading multi-partner projects
Experience working with stakeholders in academia, government, industry, or NGOs
Strong commitment to teaching excellence and student mentorship
Academic Level Requirements
Lecturer Level
- Minimum of 2 years’ research and teaching experience
Evidence of publications and participation in research projects
Experience in student supervision and teaching delivery
Associate Professor Level
- Minimum of 5 years’ academic experience
Proven leadership in research projects and funding acquisition
Experience delivering MSc-level teaching
Supervision of PhD students (including at least one completed)
Applicants must clearly indicate their intended level (Lecturer or Associate Professor) in their application and provide supporting evidence in a statement of intent.
Teaching & Academic Contribution
You will contribute to UCL’s teaching programmes including:
- MSc Energy Systems and Data Analytics
BSc/MEng Energy and Resources
Sustainable Built Environment programmes
You will help design and deliver modules focused on:
- Artificial intelligence in energy systems
Data analytics for sustainability
Energy innovation and transition strategies
Research Environment
The UCL Energy Institute is internationally recognised for research in:
- Energy systems modelling
Climate change mitigation
Urban energy transitions
Digital and AI-driven energy innovation
It collaborates widely with global institutions, industry leaders, and policymakers.
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
UCL promotes an inclusive academic environment that values diversity and equal opportunity. Applications are particularly encouraged from underrepresented groups in academia, including women in senior STEM roles, ethnic minority candidates, disabled individuals, and LGBTQI+ scholars.
Visa & Employment Eligibility
This role is eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship, subject to UK immigration requirements.
Benefits
UCL offers a competitive benefits package including:
- 41 days annual leave (including public holidays and closure days)
Defined benefit pension scheme
Cycle-to-work and season ticket loan schemes
On-site nursery and gym access
Enhanced parental leave policies
Staff wellbeing and support services
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit:
- A detailed academic CV
A letter of intent specifying Lecturer or Associate Professor level
Research statement outlining AI and energy innovation expertise
Teaching and supervision experience evidence
Summary
This is a senior academic opportunity to lead cutting-edge research at the intersection of artificial intelligence and energy innovation, shaping global responses to climate change, energy transition, and sustainable development.
