Research Fellow (Sustainability for AI)

Hours: Part Time 0.5 FTE

Contract Type: Fixed Term Contract until Sept 2029

The Collaborative AI for Manufacturing Sustainability (Co-AIMS) Hub is an £11 million EPSRC-funded research initiative led by the University of Birmingham. It aims to revolutionize UK manufacturing by developing AI-powered, people-centric, and regenerative systems that cut waste, boost productivity, and improve sustainability across sectors like automotive, aerospace, and energy. The hub concentrates on AI applications to reduce waste, enhance autonomy, and empower workers in the food & drink, aerospace, and automotive industries.

The Sustainable Manufacturing Group at the University of Birmingham leads research in developing innovative solutions to support a greener and more sustainable future. As the sustainability lead we aim to demonstrate that the hub operation, activities undertaken, and outcomes generated all consider the environmental consequences and, help to mitigate any impact.

The position will be based within the School of Engineering at the University of Birmingham where you be both part of the Sustainable Manufacturing Group and the Co-AIMS hub.

This position will support the Co-AIMS Hub in developing, establishing, and measuring the environment impact of Artificial Intelligence usage in manufacturing. The role will a dual focus in supporting the operational activities of the Hub and its research agenda.

The role will

The role focuses on developing and managing sustainability performance frameworks and metrics for the Co-AIMS Hub, including assessing the carbon footprint of AI models. Responsibilities include analysing data to identify trends, evaluate efficiency and energy performance, and applying specialist sustainability expertise. The postholder will contribute to securing research funding and support the translation of research into impact through commercialisation activities, such as licensing, spin-outs, intellectual property development, and initiatives that enhance public understanding and engagement with the discipline.

Main duties

The postholder will support sustainability-focused research within the Co-AIMS Hub by developing and managing sustainability performance frameworks and metrics, including assessing the carbon footprint of AI models. Responsibilities include analysing data, evaluating energy performance, preparing technical reports and publications, and contributing to research objectives, funding bids, and new methodologies. The role involves collaborating with academic colleagues, supporting student supervision, disseminating research findings, and contributing to departmental and public engagement activities. The postholder will also undertake research administration and promote an inclusive, fair, and equitable working environment, ensuring compliance with the University's equality, diversity, and inclusion policies.

Person Specification

Candidates should hold a PhD or Master’s degree in Sustainability, Computer Science, or a related discipline, supported by relevant experience. They will demonstrate strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills, with the ability to apply and develop research methods and techniques. The role requires experience of planning and organising research activities, managing resources effectively, and working collaboratively to achieve shared objectives. A strong understanding of sustainability principles, resource efficiency, and technical reporting is essential. Candidates must also have knowledge of Equality Act 2010 responsibilities and a commitment to fostering an inclusive environment that supports the University’s equality, diversity, and inclusion objectives.

Informal enquiries to David Butler, email: d.l.butler@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.

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

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