Lecturer in Smart and Sustainable Urban Futures

UCL; London; On-site; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job description

About us

UCL has been ranked ninth best university in the world for the second year in a row, marking UCL’s 13th year among the top 10 universities worldwide, in the 2025 QS World University Rankings. Our Energy Institute delivers world-leading learning, research and policy support on the challenges of climate change and energy security.

About the role

The UCL Energy Institute (EI) is recruiting a Lecturer in Smart and Sustainable Urban Futures. The successful candidate will specialize in sustainable urban development and systems, with expertise in smart cities technologies (AI, data analytics), resilient urban infrastructure, urban energy systems, experience with big data analytics for urban sustainability and digital twins. This role aligns with critical challenges in the urban environment, particularly the integration of digital technologies, sustainable urban transformation, and zero-carbon strategies. It will bridge engineering, planning, and policy, ensuring students gain interdisciplinary expertise in future-proofing urban spaces.

In addition to developing a research agenda in collaboration with colleagues, the successful candidate will contribute to teaching our Sustainable Built Environments, Energy and Resources BSc and MEng, teaching Sustainable Cities Challenges: Smart and Zero Carbon module, and contribute to other modules within the programme, such as Sustainable Challenges: Engineering Zero Carbon. The successful candidate will also take on programme coordination responsibilities for MSc EPEE as Deputy Director. This is a permanent role which is available from the 01st August 2025. First round interviews will take place online on the 16th May 2025, with second round in-person interviews on the 21st May 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 Institute Director, Prof Catalina Spataru. UCL welcomes applications from international applicants and has license to sponsor individuals who require a visa, depending on the post and candidate meeting eligibility requirements for visa sponsorship under UK Visas and Immigration legislation.

About you

You will have expertise in conducting data-driven urban simulation models, proficiency in energy simulation tools or digital twins, proficiency in AI-driven planning, and knowledge of adaptive urban planning and low-carbon solutions. You have a good understanding of sustainability frameworks such as UKGBC, LETI, and GLA’s Energy Hierarchy. You will have a demonstrated ability to produce high-quality, impactful research, as evidenced by publications in peer-reviewed academic journals. You are actively contributing to advancing the field of energy systems and sustainability. Your experience extends beyond academia, having worked with or collaborated with energy industry stakeholders, government bodies, or NGOs on sustainability urban projects related to energy systems. You have experience developing and delivering taught modules on topics relevant to our teaching programmes that prepare students for real-world challenges. You will have a PhD in a relevant field that aligns with the research and teaching requirements outlined in the job description. You will also have excellent communication skills and be able to collaborate across a range of disciplines and stakeholders.

Customer advert reference: B04-06022