Research Fellow in Infection Risk Management (Built-Environment Modelling) (Fixed Term) (ENG

Unlock Your Potential in Public Health & Building Science: A Groundbreaking Opportunity at the University of Nottingham

Are you a driven researcher passionate about making a tangible impact on global public health? The University of Nottingham presents an exceptional career opportunity to join an ambitious, international team at the forefront of building science and infection control. As a key partner in the ARPA-H BREATHE programme’s SCALE project, this role offers the chance to contribute to the development of the world's first real-time system for detecting and controlling airborne pathogens in buildings.

This position offers a unique chance to blend cutting-edge scientific modeling with practical, real-world applications. You will be instrumental in Technical Area 2, focusing on Respiratory Risk Assessment. This involves developing and validating sophisticated models that quantify infection risk within buildings by analyzing airflow and pollutant transport. The core of this role lies in connecting building performance, ventilation strategies, and pathogen movement with actual health outcomes, thereby shaping the future of infection-resilient building standards.

Advantages for Aspiring Candidates:

• Pioneering Research: Contribute to a groundbreaking, multi-institutional effort that aims to revolutionize how we protect occupants from airborne pathogens.
• World-Class Collaboration: Work alongside experienced leaders, including Dr. Benjamin Jones and Dr. Chris Iddon, and engage with global experts who are the scientific architects behind the first international standard for controlling infectious aerosols (ASHRAE Standard 241).
• Real-World Impact: Translate complex modeling and simulation into tangible improvements in public health, directly influencing building design and operation for the protection of millions.
• Career Development: Gain invaluable experience contributing to an international research consortium funded by ARPA-H, engage directly with policy and industry partners, and have ample opportunities for authorship on high-impact publications.
• Interdisciplinary Focus: Ideal for candidates who thrive on combining rigorous scientific modeling with practical application, translating theory into measurable public health benefits.

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

• Required Expertise: The ideal candidate will possess a PhD (or be nearing completion) in Building Physics, Environmental Engineering, or a closely related field, coupled with strong quantitative and analytical skills.
• Modeling Prowess: A deep understanding and experience in airflow and pollutant transport modeling are essential for success in this role.
• Data Integration: The ability to integrate real-world data into risk models will be a critical component of your work.
• Research Acumen: Experience conducting systematic literature reviews or meta-analyses to inform model assumptions would be a significant asset.
• Project Duration: This is a full-time, fixed-term position funded until December 31, 2026, offering a focused period of intensive, impactful research.

This is more than just a research position; it's an opportunity to be at the forefront of science that directly safeguards human health. If you are a self-motivated researcher looking to make a lasting difference, we encourage you to explore this exciting opportunity.