Research Assistant in Ann Dowling Net Zero Impact for AIA (Fixed Term)

University of Cambridge - Department of Engineering

Location:	Cambridge
Salary:	£33,002 to £35,608 per annum
Hours:	Full Time
Contract Type:	Fixed-Term/Contract

Placed On: 13th April 2026

Closes: 11th May 2026

Job Ref: NM49387

Department of Engineering, West Cambridge, UK

A Research Assistant position exists as part of the Ann Dowling Net Zero Impact Fellowship Programme in the Department of Engineering's Whittle Laboratory on the West Cambridge site (Cambridge, UK), to work on the Aviation Impact Accelerator project led by Professor Rob Miller.

Climate neutral aviation is possible, however, there is no silver bullet and to achieve it a whole system approach is required considering technology, scale-up, infrastructure, investment, and policy. The Aviation Impact Accelerator (AIA) is an international group of academics and practitioners drawing on a broad range of expertise assembled by the University of Cambridge, to develop an interactive, evidence-based tool to allow decision-makers to map, understand, and embark on the pathways towards sustainable flight.

Key responsibilities and duties include: investigating technologies for climate neutral aviation; contributing to academic and accessible outputs including articles and papers; developing system models of aviation; working closely with AIA team and external partners; promoting diverse participation and achievement in Engineering, including supporting the annual CDT Women in Aerospace event; supporting liaison and collaboration external organisations; participating in networks for the exchange of information; planning and managing your own research activity in collaboration with others.

Applicants must have an undergraduate and masters degree or have obtained these by the time the position commences. We are looking for candidates with interests in a range of areas including sustainability modelling, aircraft modelling, engine design, fuel production, electrical systems, aviation operations or systems, airport design and operations, software engineering and interface between technology and policy. The ideal candidates would be interested in one or more of these areas but would also have an interest in working with people across the multidisciplinary AIA team. We will also be looking for candidates who are self-motivated, have good communication skills and are interested in outreach in the sector.

This Research Assistant position offers the opportunity to explore a career in aviation and academia while getting the chance to interact with stakeholders in industry, government, and civil society. You will be able to develop professional skills in a wide range of technical areas. Post-holders can expect support in exploring their next career goals, whether that is pursuing a PhD, taking on a role outside of the initiative, or securing a long-term role with the AIA.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 12 months in the first instance.

To apply online for this vacancy and to view further information about the role, please click the 'Apply' button above.

Please ensure that you upload your Curriculum Vitae (CV) and a covering in the Upload section of the online application. If you upload any additional documents which have not been requested, we will not be able to consider these as part of your application. Please submit your application by midnight on the closing date.

If you have any questions about this vacancy or the application process, please contact: Anna Petrosyan via ap2522@cam.ac.uk

Please quote reference NM49387 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.