Principal Research Fellow in Electricity Markets & Systems / Centre Research Director

The Bartlett School of Environment, Energy and Resources (BSEER) is a world-leading school on sustainability transformations in research and teaching. The UCL Institute for Sustainable Resources (ISR) delivers world-leading research, teaching and engagement on the sustainable use of global resources. ISR’s mission is to provide evidence, expertise, and training to respond to climate change and support sustainable transitions for people and planet.

As a Principal Research Fellow of the Institute, the primary role will be Research Director for the UCL Centre on Net Zero Market Design, which was established in July 2024 based on corporate philanthropic contributions.

Working with group members, project partners, etc. Reporting to and working closely with Michael Grubb, Professor of Energy and Climate Change and the Centre’s overall Director; working with a small research team at the Centre, together with other researchers on electricity systems and markets across BSEER. Likely also contributing to projects on electricity market reform in the EU and in China. The Centre and related projects are primarily funded by a mix of government and philanthropic sources.

The successful candidate will act as Research Director for the Centre, to conduct, oversee, and communicate research on approaches to market design for net zero electricity systems and related approaches to securing low carbon investment, initially in the UK but potentially internationally. The role will have a significant component of engagement with the Centre’s Funders and Advisory Board, including UK officials involved in electricity market reform. The post-holder would also contribute to teaching a new Masters module on Electricity Systems and Markets.

The post is available from 01 December 2025 and is funded until 01 August 2027 in the first instance. Further funding to support the post may be available.

Interviews will take place on the 15 December 2025.

A job description and person specification can be accessed at the bottom of this page. If you have any queries regarding the vacancy, or the application process, please contact bseer-. If you have specific questions about the role please contact Michael Grubb,

UCL welcomes applications from international applicants and has licence to sponsor individuals who require a visa. This is dependent on the post and candidate meeting eligibility requirements for visa sponsorship under UK Visas and Immigration legislation.

The successful candidate should have experience of managing research including early career researchers, and a PhD or equivalent experience in disciplines directly relevant to energy/electricity market design and operation (at least MSc plus equivalent experience) and a strong record of relevant publications, across both academia and policy/business engagement. Experience of UK and European electricity market design and operations and would be an asset, along with knowledge and experience surrounding commercial electricity contract design and/or trading, and experience with engaging with policy makers and policy-making and advisory processes (e.g. calls for evidence) in the UK and Europe. Experience of working in a multi-disciplinary research team, ideally in the area of energy markets, would be essential.

Customer advert reference: B04-06812

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