Research Fellow in Digital Twinning for Decarbonising Transport

Role Description

We welcome applications from passionate and skilled researchers to join our team in the Centre for Digital and Design Engineering, contributing to the EPSRC-funded TransiT project, focused on Digital Twinning Technologies for Transport Decarbonisation.

About the Role

We are looking for a Research Fellow to help develop new digital tools, including digital models, shadows and twins, that reduce carbon emissions in transport. Working with a wide range of experts from universities and industries across the UK, you will help create a “digital twinning” system that links air and road systems to support cleaner, more efficient and cost-effective logistics.

The role involves building computer simulations and digital infrastructure using right-time data to test low-carbon and green technologies, and to provide evidence to guide future transport and energy planning. This position offers the chance to make a real contribution to the UK’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

About You

Applicants should have a doctorate degree or equivalent (PhD/EngD) in Engineering, Manufacturing, Transport, Computer Science, Data Science, Sustainability, or a closely related subject, or be close to completing their qualification. They should have experience in systems engineering, simulation, digital modelling, machine learning, artificial intelligence, or digital twin (model, shadow, twin) technologies, with an understanding of how these can be applied to transport or logistics systems. Strong technical and analytical skills are required, including experience using simulation or programming tools such as MATLAB, Simulink, MATSim, AnyLogic, or Python. Applicants should also have a good knowledge of decarbonisation and sustainability principles in transport, energy systems or manufacturing.

Excellent communication, teamwork, and time management skills are essential, along with the ability to manage research activities and present finding clearly. Experience working on collaborative research projects with both academic and industry partners, or through funded research programmes, would be an advantage.

About Us

As a specialist postgraduate university, Cranfield’s world-class expertise, large-scale facilities and unrivalled industry partnerships are creating leaders in technology and management globally. Learn more about Cranfield and our unique impact here.

Cranfield’s Manufacturing, Materials and Design theme is driving innovation towards a sustainable manufacturing sector by 2050, focusing on smart, clean and green solutions across all industry sectors and supply chains. The theme integrates expertise in design, advanced manufacturing, materials technology and digital engineering to deliver impactful research and postgraduate education. Within this theme, the Centre for Digital and Design Engineering (CDDE) leads research in digital engineering, simulation, artificial intelligence and digital twinning, developing tools and methods that enhance the design, manufacture and operation of complex systems. CDDE works closely with industry and government to create digital solutions that support the transition to low-carbon, resilient and efficient transport and manufacturing systems.

Our Values and Commitments

Our shared, stated values help to define who we are and underpin everything we do: Ambition; Impact; Respect; and Community. Find out more here.

We aim to create and maintain a culture in which everyone can work and study together and realise their full potential. We are a Disability Confident Employer and proud members of the Stonewall Diversity Champions Programme. We are committed to actively exploring flexible working options for each role and have been ranked in the Top 30 family friendly employers in the UK by the charity Working Families. Find out more about our key commitments to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and Flexible Working here.

Working Arrangements

Collaborating and connecting are integral to so much of what we do. Our Working Arrangements Framework provides many staff with the opportunity to flexibly combine on-site and remote working, where job roles allow, balancing the needs of our community of staff, students, clients and partners.

How to apply                                   

For an informal discussion about this opportunity, please contact Dr Maryam Farsi, Senior Lecturer in Engineering Optimisation, on (T): +44 (0) 1234 754647 or (E): maryam.farsi@cranfield.ac.uk

Please do not hesitate to contact us for further details on (E): peoplerecruitment@cranfield.ac.uk. Please quote reference number 5293.

Closing date for receipt of applications:   18 May 2026

Please note that we reserve the right to close this advert prior to the stated closing date should we receive sufficient numbers of applications. Therefore, we would encourage you to complete and submit your application as soon as possible.