About the role
The School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics (SECaM) wishes to recruit a Postdoctoral Research Fellow to support the work of Prof Ian Bailey on a research project led by Prof Lars Johanning funded through the UoP International Collaboration Investment Fund project 'OcEn’.
The project aims on user-inspired research that conceptualizes and utilizes ocean energy systems to achieve just, environmentally responsible, and climate responsive futures. An overview of the project can be found here. This post is available from 1st of July 2025 for 36 months. The role would be based at the campus of The University of Plymouth. You will be appointed at Postdoctoral Research Fellow (Grade 7) depending on the skills and experience the individual can bring to the role.
The project is an interdisciplinary, cross-country collaboration with leading global research Universities from US, Canada and Australia. The focus of the post will be to develop a novel framework for integrating scientific and multi-species justice perspectives into analysis of the ecological impacts of offshore renewable energy developments.
What we’re looking for
We’re looking for an individual, with appropriate skills in leading the development of a methodological framework for considering and incorporating multi-species justice principles into policy-making, consultation and consenting for offshore renewable energy.
You will possess a PhD in a relevant research area and be able to demonstrate sufficient knowledge in analysing socio-ecological justice considerations, encompassing recognition justice, distributive fairness, procedural integrity, and restorative justice for historical, existing and anticipated harms arising offshore and onshore from the construction, operation and decommissioning of offshore renewable energy. At Postdoctoral Research Fellow level, you will be a nationally recognised authority in the field socio-ecological impacts from offshore renewable energy. You will also be able to work collaboratively, present information on research progress and outcomes and be able to develop research programmes and methodologies.
You should demonstrate your achievements against the relevant criteria in the accompanying job description and person specification which will be used to make an appointment at an appropriate level.
The successful candidate may be required to obtain an ATAS Certificate prior to this research being undertaken.
For more information on School of Engineering Computing and Mathematics please visit our dedicated webpage at
For this role, you will need to be on site 3 days a week. Although we can acommodate working from home for this role, flexibility to be on-site will be expected due to business needs.
For an informal discussion to find out more about the role then please contact Lars Johanning: by email at lars.johanning@plymouth.ac.uk
This is a full-time position working 37 hours per week on a fixed-term basis for 3 years due to funding, the anticipated start date is 1 July 2025.
About us
The School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics holds a Silver Athena SWAN award in recognition of our commitment to advance gender equality in higher education.
The University of Plymouth has a strong interdisciplinary research ethos which is supported by our three strategic Research Institutes; the Marine Institute, the Sustainable Earth Institute, and the Plymouth Institute of Health and Care Research. As a member of our academic community, you’ll be expected to contribute to our recognised research strengths. Working holistically across the University, you will be challenged to innovate, collaborate and deliver impactful research contributions as part of a systems thinking approach to addressing today’s global challenges.
Application Process
Please apply online, demonstrating how you meet the essential criteria outlined in the knowledge, qualifications, training, and experience elements of the job description in your supporting statement.
Following the closing date of the vacancy, you will be notified on the outcome of your application in due course.
Interviews are expected to take place week commencing Monday 7 April and you will be notified whether you have been shortlisted or not.
Our Offer
When joining us, you will receive:
• Generous annual leave: 35 Days Annual Leave (pro rata if part-time) plus Bank Holidays & Closure Days
• Generous pension scheme
• Cycle to Work & Electric Car Scheme
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Development opportunities
• Enhanced family leave
• Flexible working
• Retailer discounts
• On-site nursery
A summary of our comprehensive benefits can be viewed here.
Additional Information
The University of Plymouth is an inclusive community where everyone is welcomed regardless of their background. To find out more about our inclusive community initiatives, such as Athena Swan and the Race Equality Charter, please visit our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion webpages.
We particularly welcome applicants from under-represented communities at the University of Plymouth, such as people with disabilities, ethnically diverse and LGBT+