0.4 FTE Research Assistant - REQ 10594

Job Description

LSBU's School of Built Environment and Architecture are looking to hire a part-time (0.4FTE) Research Assistant for a 4-month contract.

The School has over 3000 students and 80 staff members, making it one of the UK?s largest schools of the built environment. It covers all subject areas concerning the design, development and operation of all the items which make up the built environment. Courses are industry-relevant and are at the cutting edge of each of the subjects. They are accredited by the relevant professional institutions to the highest possible level. BEA is a pioneering leader in delivering Higher and Degree Apprenticeships in architecture and built environment subjects. 

The output, quality and real-world impact of BEA research has been growing with academic staff gathering indicators of eminence at national and international levels. The School?s research profile has been growing through the work of the Centre for Civil and Buildings Services Engineering and Centre for Integrated Delivery of the Built Environment. 

The School has strong links to industry, it is the preferred provider of education for almost 200 employers and undertakes enterprise and knowledge transfer projects with corporate partners.

Key Responsibilities 

1. Contribute to research on building energy performance and sustainability, with a focus on energy-efficient retrofit solutions for existing buildings, particularly integrating new technologies like heat pumps.
2. Conduct literature reviews and desktop research to support the innovation voucher fund project with SMEs, synthesizing current knowledge on sustainable building technologies and retrofit strategies.
3. Assist in designing and conducting fieldwork, experiments, and testing, including the analysis of building materials and energy efficiency systems. This may involve setting up equipment, collecting data, and ensuring proper documentation of procedures.
4. Develop and analyse energy performance models using industry-standard software, contributing to the assessment of various retrofit scenarios and their potential impact on building energy consumption.
5. Collect, analyse, and interpret data from energy consumption studies, using statistical tools and data visualization techniques to present findings clearly and concisely.
6. Collaborate with other researchers and external stakeholders in preparing and conducting feasibility studies for energy-efficient retrofits, considering technical, economic, and environmental factors.
7. Prepare detailed reports on research findings, draft research papers, and contribute to academic publications, ensuring high standards of academic writing and adherence to publication guidelines.
8. Attend and actively contribute to internal and external project meetings, conferences, and symposiums, representing the research team and presenting findings as required.
9. Assist with the dissemination of research outcomes via journals, conferences, and other appropriate channels, helping to raise the profile of LSBU's research in building energy performance.
10. Ensure proper documentation and maintenance of research data, following best practices in data management and complying with relevant data protection regulations.
11. Support the development of research proposals and funding applications related to building energy performance and sustainable retrofits.
12. Contribute to the development of questionnaires, surveys, or other research instruments as needed for data collection from stakeholders in the building industry.
13. Assist in maintaining and updating the research team's database of relevant literature, case studies, and industry contacts.
14. Participate in occasional teaching or demonstration activities if required.

Essential: Master degree in a relevant field such as Building Services Engineering, Architectural Engineering, or Environmental Science. Desirable: PhD degree in a related discipline.

A. Essential: Master degree in a relevant field such as Building Services Engineering, Architectural Engineering, or Environmental Science. Desirable: PhD degree in a related discipline.

B. Strong understanding of building energy performance principles, sustainable technologies (especially heat pump systems), and retrofit strategies for existing buildings.

C. Demonstrable knowledge of research techniques and methods within building energy performance, including quantitative and qualitative research methodologies.

D. Proficiency in using building energy simulation software (e.g., EnergyPlus, IES-VE) and data analysis tools (e.g., MATLAB, R, or Python).

E. Excellent report writing and academic writing skills, with the ability to present complex technical information clearly and concisely.

F. Strong communication and interpersonal skills for engaging effectively with research teams, external collaborators, and industry partners.

G. Ability to work independently and as part of a team, managing time effectively to meet project deadlines.

H. Experience in conducting literature reviews, data collection, and analysis in the field of building energy performance or a related area.

I. Familiarity with UK building regulations and energy efficiency standards relevant to building retrofits.

J. Desirable: Experience in preparing or contributing to research grant applications or funding proposals.

K. Willingness to engage in continuous professional development and stay updated with the latest developments in the field of sustainable building technologies.

L. Ability to troubleshoot and problem-solve issues arising from research experiments or data analysis, demonstrating critical thinking and analytical skills.