Research Fellow in Deep Uncertainty, Environmental Governance and Science - Policy Engagement

University of Birmingham - College of Life and Environmental Sciences - School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences

Location:	Birmingham
Salary:	Do note due to limited funding, the maximum salary to be offered is £36,636. Grade 7
Hours:	Full Time
Contract Type:	Fixed-Term/Contract

Placed On:	20th March 2026
Closes:	12th April 2026
Job Ref:	107121

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Fellow to join the UKRI Frontier Research project "DAWN: Illuminating Deep Uncertainties in the Estimation of Irrigation Water Withdrawals", led by Dr Arnald Puy (University of Birmingham, United Kingdom). DAWN merges philosophy, anthropology, hydrology and mathematical modelling to unfold, analyse and assimilate the uncertainties ingrained in the modelling of global irrigation water demands.

The successful candidate will design and drive a high-level strategy to position DAWN’s findings on deep uncertainty in global irrigation modelling within scientific, institutional and governance arenas. This includes designing stakeholder engagement strategies; fostering dialogue with policy-makers, assessment bodies and modelling initiatives; contributing to high-level public forums and using research communication (talks, policy briefs, media contributions) as instruments to reach key actors and reshape ongoing debates.

We welcome applicants whose work spans multiple disciplines or challenges traditional academic boundaries as the focus is on interdisciplinary, cross- disciplinary background. The ideal candidate holds a PhD (or is close to completion) in sustainability science, research communication, science and technology studies or environmental governance but above all demonstrate the intellectual courage to interrogate scientific modelling and operate across scientific and institutional boundaries.

Main duties include:

1. Co-design the next phase of DAWN by developing strategic pathways to translate findings on deep structural uncertainty in global irrigation modelling into scientific, institutional and governance contexts.
2. Critically engage with modelling practices to examine how assumptions and uncertainties shape estimates of irrigation water withdrawals and how these should be interpreted and communicated beyond academia.
3. Lead the synthesis and dissemination of results through high-quality publications, policy briefs, invited talks and targeted engagement with policy-makers, modelling communities and relevant national and international institutions.

Informal enquires can be made to {Arnald Puy, a.puy@bham.ac.uk}

To download the full job description and details of this position and submit an electronic application online please click on the 'Apply' button above or visit our careers website; please quote Job Ref 107121 in all enquiries.

Valuing excellence, sustaining investment We value diversity and inclusion at the University of Birmingham and welcome applications from all sections of the community and are open to discussions around all forms of flexible working