"Technical Analyst"

University of Cambridge - Department of Engineering

The Aviation Impact Accelerator (AIA) at the University of Cambridge seeks to recruit a Technical Analyst based at the Whittle Laboratory in West Cambridge. The research carried out by the AIA is critically dependent upon robust modelling and analysis to support its mission of transforming aviation toward a net-zero future. This role has been created to align with the design and delivery of innovative tools and services that underpin cutting-edge research in sustainable aviation.

To assist the AIA in achieving its objectives, you will develop and operate models that assess the economic and environmental outcomes of aviation systems. You will also contribute to external reports and grant proposals under the supervision of the line manager, while engaging with stakeholders across academia, industry, and policy domains to ensure impactful delivery of research outputs.

The Aviation Impact Accelerator (AIA) uses a combination of physics-based and data-driven modelling to develop its first-order models of the aviation sector and beyond. These models compose to create a single comprehensive systems-of-systems model. In contrast to most academic modelling, we lean heavily on functional programming as a paradigm as this, along with computer algebra, immutability, and more, allows the computational implementations of our models to align more closely with their mathematics. The AIA’s modelling toolboxes (there is broadly one per aviation system being modelled) are written in modern typed Python. About 90% of our current software development is greenfield, meaning that everyone helps shape the architecture of, and idioms used in, our codebases.

You will have an undergraduate degree in STEM (engineering, mathematics, physics, environmental sciences, or a related field), or equivalent practical experience. You will possess strong software skills preferably in Python, alongside proficiency in modelling and data analysis. Excellent verbal and written communication skills are essential, as is the ability to work both independently and as part of a team. Previous experience in techno-economic analysis, lifecycle modelling, or related areas will be advantageous.

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to meaningful research that influences global aviation policies while developing your expertise in a collaborative and innovative environment.

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

Applications are welcome from internal candidates who would like to apply for the role on the basis of a secondment from their current role in the University.

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 letter in the Upload section of the online application.

The closing date for applications is Sunday 18 January 2026. If you have any questions about this vacancy or the application process, please contact the HR Office at the Department of Engineering (hr-office@eng.cam.ac.uk, +44 (0)1223 332615).

Please quote reference NM48377 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.