Research Assistant (KP

Are you a motivated and ambitious individual looking to make a tangible impact on sustainable housing solutions? This Research Assistant role within the Department of Architecture and Civil Engineering presents a compelling opportunity to contribute to a pioneering project focused on the large-scale retrofit of homes. This is more than just a research position; it's a chance to be at the forefront of developing innovative and environmentally conscious building practices.

The Opportunity

This project is designed to explore a novel, decentralized, self-managing team model for delivering home retrofits at scale. A key focus is the integration of locally sourced, bio-based materials, aiming to strengthen regional supply chains and foster local economic growth. As a Research Assistant, you will be integral to the success of this vital initiative.

Key Responsibilities and Skill Development

This role offers a dynamic set of duties that will allow you to expand your professional toolkit and expertise:

• Data Analysis: You will gain hands-on experience in collecting and analyzing data through a diverse range of qualitative and quantitative methods, including conducting interviews, facilitating participatory workshops, and undertaking financial modelling. This experience is invaluable for developing robust research and analytical capabilities.
• Model Development and Testing: This position provides a unique opportunity to contribute to the development and testing of innovative retrofit delivery models. You will be instrumental in shaping practical solutions for real-world challenges.
• Fieldwork Execution: You will be responsible for preparing, conducting, and meticulously recording the outcomes of fieldwork, enhancing your project management and execution skills.
• Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement: A significant aspect of this role involves working closely with external collaborators, community partners, and a wider project team. This will hone your communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills, crucial for any career progression.

Career Path Advantages

For ambitious candidates, this role offers several significant advantages:

• Specialized Expertise: The project's focus on large-scale retrofit, bio-based materials, and innovative delivery models provides an opportunity to develop deep, specialized knowledge in a rapidly growing and highly relevant field within the built environment.
• Practical Research Experience: You will be involved in practical research that has direct societal and environmental benefits, making your work both intellectually stimulating and personally rewarding.
• Networking Opportunities: The collaborative nature of the project will allow you to build a valuable network of contacts within academia, industry, and community organizations.
• Contribution to Sustainable Development: This role is ideal for individuals passionate about sustainability and seeking to contribute meaningfully to addressing the climate crisis through innovative construction practices.

Key Considerations for Candidates

To help you assess if this role aligns with your career aspirations, consider the following:

• Project Scope and Duration: This is a part-time (14.6 hours per week) fixed-term role for 6 months (January to July 2026). This format can be advantageous for those looking to gain specific project experience or balance other commitments, but it's important to align with the temporary nature of the position.
• Beneficial Experience: While not strictly essential, candidates with a postgraduate degree in a relevant built environment discipline and expertise in areas such as retrofit, architectural design, construction management, innovative business models, or participatory design will find themselves well-positioned.
• Research Environment: You will be joining a university renowned for its international reputation and commitment to diversity and inclusion. The supportive environment offers extensive personal and professional development opportunities.
• Comprehensive Benefits: The university offers a robust benefits package, including free counselling, cycle-to-work scheme, electric vehicle salary sacrifice, gym and tuition fee discounts, generous pension contributions, and ample annual leave, all contributing to a positive work-life balance.

This Research Assistant position is an excellent stepping stone for individuals looking to make a significant contribution to sustainable building practices and develop specialized expertise in a critical area of the built environment. If you are driven, eager to learn, and passionate about innovation, this role offers a rewarding experience and valuable career development.