Research Assistant/Fellow in Industrial Energy Efficiency&Decarbonisation-16895

Position Title: Research Assistant or Research Fellow in Industrial Energy Efficiency and Decarbonisation – Food Supply Chains

Department/College: Department of Engineering / Centre for Sustainable Energy Use in Food Chains

Location: Brunel University of London, Uxbridge

Salary Grade: R1   Research Assistant: Grade R1 (P26-29)

                               Research Fellow: Grade R1 (P30-36)

Hours: Full-time

Contract Type: Fixed-term (start ASAP until 31 January 2028)                             

Brunel University London was established in 1966 and is a leading multidisciplinary research-intensive technology university delivering economic, social and cultural benefits. For more information visit: https://www.brunel.ac.uk/about/our-history/home. 

We are looking for an enthusiastic, ambitious, experienced researcher to work on a new project on industrial energy efficiency and decarbonisation. The project is one of 10 projects funded by UK Research and Innovation as part of the Place Based Impact Acceleration Account (PBIAA) scheme. Further information can be found at: https://parkroyalnetzero.co.uk/.

The Park Royal Net Zero Food Supply Chains project is based in Park Royal, West London—one of the UK’s largest employment hubs, with 1,700 businesses, 40,000 workers, and producing 30% of London’s food. The project works with local food and drink businesses to tackle energy, waste, and productivity challenges, aiming to reduce carbon costs, strengthen resilience, and support economic growth.

The successful applicant is expected to have a PhD or other postgraduate qualification with experience in a relevant area of engineering, built environment or technology and good knowledge of food supply chains. The successful candidate will be expected to make a proactive and meaningful contribution to research activities within the wider Park Royal Net Zero programme. Experience in Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and thermodynamic modelling of energy technologies and systems and the use of software such as EnergyPlus, IES VE, and TRNSYS will also be advantageous to the project.

Under the supervision of the Principal Investigator(s), the post-holder will conduct energy and carbon assessments across industries in Park Royal, including site visits for data collection and energy surveys, and produce high-quality research outputs. They will plan and organise research activities, contribute to project delivery, and engage with industry partners while supporting small research teams and providing guidance to staff and students. Responsibilities include analysing and documenting research data, preparing reports and publications, presenting findings at conferences, and contributing to funding proposals and project strategy. The role also involves building collaborations, mentoring junior researchers, supporting team activities, and undertaking administrative and, where appropriate, teaching duties. The appointee should also have strong communication skills and work effectively with researchers and project partners.

We offer a generous annual leave package plus discretionary University closure days, excellent training and development opportunities as well as a great occupational pension scheme and a range of health-related support. The University is committed to a hybrid working approach. 

Closing date for applications:  1 July 2026

Interviews will take place on week of 20^th July 2026 virtually

For further details about the post contact Dr Ali Badiei, Email: ali.badiei@brunel.ac.uk and to apply please visit https://careers.brunel.ac.uk

If you have any technical issues please contact us at: hrsystems@brunel.ac.uk

All Applicants should be eligible to live and work in the UK for the duration of any offer of appointment.

Brunel University London is fully committed to creating and sustaining a fully inclusive workforce culture. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and communities, we particularly welcome applicants who are currently under- represented in our workforce.