Research Associate in Electricity Market Modelling

About the role

Would you like to work on innovative research on electricity markets that can make a real difference in the transition to clean energy systems?

We are excited to invite applications for a postdoctoral Research Associate at our recently launched Global Energy Centre "EPICS" (Electric Power Innovation for a Carbon-Free Society). At this interdisciplinary Centre, you will be undertaking research to adapt electricity markets and government policies for a world in which a high proportion of electricity comes from renewable generators. Your research will be grounded in economics while respecting the engineering constraints that govern the operation of the power system.

What you would be doing

You will be adapting and developing models of the electricity market to simulate the effects of different market designs and support policies for renewable generators and energy storage units.

You will be assessing their impact on the efficient operation of the market and on the costs and risks faced by generators, electricity retailers and their customers.

You will develop methods for managing energy storage in the face of uncertain future patterns of electricity demand and renewable generation.

You will work alongside engineers responding to the technical issues arising from the rapid changes to the generation mix and social scientists seeking to accelerate consumers’ participation to make the power system more flexible.

What we are looking for

• PhD in Economics or a similar relevant discipline, such as Operations Research or Power Systems. Candidates with a PhD near to completion will be considered for appointment as a Research Assistant, with promotion on successful completion (after all corrections have been accepted by the examiners and the awarding university has accepted this).
• An interest in the energy transition; prior experience in modelling electricity systems or power markets is desirable but not essential.
• Experience in quantitative modelling and in handling large datasets.
• Ability to write models in one or more program languages; familiarity with R would be an advantage
• You should be developing skills in academic writing and in presenting your research to a range of audiences including policymakers.

What we can offer you

• The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution and be part of our mission to continue science for humanity.
• The EPICS consortium is made up of universities in the UK (funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council), Australia and the US, and our industrial partners include several of the world’s leading electricity system operators. You may have the opportunity to work for a short period at one of these partner universities or companies.
• Grow your career: gain access to Imperial’s sector-leading dedicated career support for researchers as well as opportunities for promotion and progression.
• Sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 41 days off a year and generous pension schemes).
• Be part of a diverse, inclusive and collaborative work culture with various staff networks and resources to support your personal and professional wellbeing.

Further Information

This is a full time, fixed-term contract until 31 October 2028. It will be based in the Department of Economics and Public Policy within Imperial Business School, with recently refurbished offices in South Kensington, London (hybrid).

The Department currently has 25 faculty and 11 research staff.

If you require any further details about the role, please contact: Professor Richard Green. Email: r.green@imperial.ac.uk