
Research Assistant in Ann Dowling Net Zero Impact for AIA (Fixed Term)
University of Cambridge · Cambridge, England, United Kingdom
- On site
- Full-time
- £40,000 / year
- Cambridge, England, United Kingdom
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Job highlights
- Research climate-neutral aviation technologies and systems.
- Develop models and contribute to academic publications.
- Collaborate with diverse academic and industry partners.
- Gain exposure to aviation industry stakeholders.
- Develop technical and professional skills.
About the role
Research Assistant in Ann Dowling Net Zero Impact for AIA
A Research Assistant position is available within the Ann Dowling Net Zero Impact Fellowship Programme at the Department of Engineering's Whittle Laboratory. This role is part of the Aviation Impact Accelerator (AIA) project, led by Professor Rob Miller, focusing on achieving climate-neutral aviation through a comprehensive, whole-system approach. The AIA project unites academics and practitioners to create an evidence-based tool for decision-makers to navigate pathways toward sustainable flight.
Key Responsibilities
- Investigate technologies for climate-neutral aviation.
- Contribute to academic and accessible outputs, including articles and papers.
- Develop system models of aviation.
- Collaborate closely with the AIA team and external partners.
- Promote diversity and achievement in Engineering, supporting events like the annual CDT Women in Aerospace event.
- Support liaison and collaboration with external organizations.
- Participate in networks for information exchange.
- Plan and manage research activities in collaboration with others.
Qualifications and Interests
Applicants must possess an undergraduate and master's degree, or obtain them by the position's start date. We seek candidates with interests in areas such as sustainability modeling, aircraft modeling, engine design, fuel production, electrical systems, aviation operations or systems, airport design and operations, software engineering, and the interface between technology and policy. While expertise in one or more of these areas is beneficial, a strong interest in interdisciplinary collaboration within the AIA team is essential. Self-motivation, strong communication skills, and an interest in outreach within the sector are also highly valued.
Career Development Opportunities
This Research Assistant position offers a unique opportunity to explore careers in aviation and academia. You will engage with stakeholders from industry, government, and civil society, and develop professional skills across a wide range of technical areas. Support will be provided for exploring future career goals, including pursuing a PhD, taking on roles outside the initiative, or securing a long-term position with the AIA.
Position Details
Fixed-term: The funding for this position is available for 12 months in the first instance.
Application Process
To apply, please click the 'Apply' button to register and submit your application online via the University's recruitment system. Ensure you upload your Curriculum Vitae (CV) and a covering letter in the designated 'Upload' section. Applications will not be considered if they include additional, unrequested documents. The application deadline is midnight on the closing date.
Contact Information
For any questions regarding this vacancy or the application process, please contact Anna Petrosyan at ap2522@cam.ac.uk. Please quote reference NM49387 in all correspondence.
Equality and Inclusion
The University of Cambridge actively supports equality, diversity, and inclusion and encourages applications from all segments of society. We are committed to ensuring all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
Key skills/competency
- Research Assistant
- Net Zero Aviation
- Aviation Impact Accelerator
- Sustainability Modelling
- Aircraft Modelling
- Systems Engineering
- Policy Analysis
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration
- Academic Writing
- Project Management
Skills & topics
- Research Assistant
- Net Zero Aviation
- Aviation Impact Accelerator
- Sustainability
- Climate Neutral Aviation
- Aerospace Engineering
- Systems Modeling
- Policy Analysis
- University of Cambridge
- Engineering Research
How to get hired
- Tailor your application: Customize your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant degrees and interests in sustainability, aviation, and policy, referencing the 'Research Assistant Net Zero Aviation' role.
- Showcase interdisciplinary interest: Emphasize your willingness to collaborate with a multidisciplinary team and your passion for outreach and diversity in engineering.
- Detail your qualifications: Clearly state your undergraduate and master's degrees and any specific technical skills like sustainability modeling or aircraft modeling.
- Proofread carefully: Ensure your CV and cover letter are error-free and submitted by the midnight deadline, adhering strictly to the requested document types.
- Engage with the team: If you have questions, reach out to Anna Petrosyan at ap2522@cam.ac.uk, referencing NM49387 for prompt assistance.
Technical preparation
Behavioral questions
Frequently asked questions
- What is the University of Cambridge's commitment to diversity for the Research Assistant role?
- The University of Cambridge actively supports equality, diversity, and inclusion. They encourage applications from all sections of society for the Research Assistant in Net Zero Aviation position and strive to promote diverse participation and achievement in Engineering.
- What are the essential qualifications for the Research Assistant in Net Zero Aviation position?
- Applicants must have an undergraduate and master's degree, or be on track to obtain them by the position's start date. Interest in areas like sustainability modeling, aircraft modeling, engine design, or policy is crucial.
- Can international applicants apply for the Research Assistant role at the University of Cambridge?
- The University of Cambridge has a responsibility to ensure all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK. While the description doesn't explicitly exclude international applicants, eligibility to work in the UK will be a key consideration.
- What is the duration of the Research Assistant position at the University of Cambridge?
- This is a fixed-term position. The funds for this role are available for 12 months in the first instance.
- How can I ask questions about the Research Assistant application process for the AIA project?
- You can contact Anna Petrosyan at ap2522@cam.ac.uk for any questions about the Research Assistant vacancy or the application process. Please remember to quote reference NM49387.
- What kind of career development can I expect as a Research Assistant in Net Zero Aviation?
- As a Research Assistant, you can explore careers in aviation and academia, interact with industry and government stakeholders, and develop professional skills. The university also offers support for future career goals, such as pursuing a PhD or securing long-term roles within the AIA.
- What are the key research areas for the Research Assistant role?
- Key research areas include technologies for climate-neutral aviation, sustainability modeling, aircraft modeling, engine design, fuel production, electrical systems, aviation operations, airport design, software engineering, and the intersection of technology and policy.