British Antarctic Survey
BAS 26/57
Contract type 1 year fixed-term appointment
Location Cambridge
Salary D S1 £46,444 - £51,088
Closing date 22 July 2026
Interview date TBC
Background/Overview:
Join a unique and impactful project to help design cutting-edge, net zero modular field science and accommodation enclosures for use in Antarctica. This is an exceptional opportunity for someone looking to apply and develop their skills in modelling and simulation as well as gain experience in the practical application of engineering to develop the enclosures. Your work will contribute directly to the decarbonisation of remote field operations in one of the most extreme environments on Earth.
What We Offer:
· Work on a groundbreaking net zero project for one of the most remote research environments on Earth.
· Mentorship and collaboration with experienced professionals in engineering, sustainability, and science logistics.
· A chance to make a real impact in helping reduce carbon emissions in scientific field operations.
· Fixed-term contract for one year with potential for professional development and future opportunities.
· Deliver modelling and simulation of net zero energy scenarios for modular structures in the Antarctic field.
· Use tools such as IES (Integrated Environmental Solutions) or other recognised building/environmental simulation software to assess and optimise energy performance.
· Collaborate closely with engineering, net zero, and science teams to gather multidisciplinary requirements for field enclosures.
· Explore passive and active strategies to reduce energy demand, increase efficiency, and improve comfort for field personnel.
· Contribute to design iterations of standalone field enclosures by testing different materials, HVAC approaches, insulation systems, and renewables integration.
· Help produce technical reports, simulations, and visual outputs to support design decisions and stakeholder engagement.
Skills, Qualifications and Experience
Essential:
- Experience in energy modelling, building simulation, and/or environmental systems design. Working knowledge of IESVE software preferred, or other relevant platforms (e.g. EnergyPlus, DesignBuilder, Rhino/Grasshopper, TRNSYS).
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with attention to technical detail.
- Enthusiastic about net zero design and sustainability, especially in challenging, remote environments.
- Good communication and teamwork abilities.
- Degree (BSc/MSc) in engineering, environmental design, building physics, or a related discipline, or demonstrable equivalent level of experience.
- Demonstrated strong numerical and analytical ability, with the capacity to apply building physics theory to develop, implement and evaluate models and simulations.
- Proven experience of analysing quantitative data, including validating model outputs, assessing uncertainty and interpreting results.
- Ability to interpret numerical results critically and communicate findings clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.
- Strong IT and computing skills, with the ability to use specialist software and digital tools relevant to modelling and simulation.
- Ability to make sound, evidence-based decisions, drawing on data analysis, modelling outputs and professional judgement.
- Proficient in written and spoken English.
- Ability to work collaboratively as part of multidisciplinary teams, contributing constructively and respecting different perspectives and areas of expertise.
Ability to communicate complex technical information clearly, adapting style and level of detail to suit different audiences.
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Desirable:
- Experience working on or studying low-energy building design, modular construction, cold climate environments.
- Practical experience working on scientific instrumentation and/or electrical/electronic systems.
Interest in science support infrastructure and real-world application of sustainable design principles.
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The role holder will be required to have the appropriate level of security screening/vetting required for the role. UKRI reserves the right to run or re-run security clearance as required during the course of employment.
