Research Associate in Remanufacture Circular Economy

We are seekinganoutstanding Postdoctoral Research Associate to contribute to a high-impact research programme focused on decentralised systems and distributed ledger technologies (DLTs) in the context of the circular economyandremanufacturingin particular. This rolewill explore how large-scale, decentralised architectures can enable trusted, efficient, and autonomouscoordination without centralised control,advancing both theoretical foundations and real-world application.

You will be based in Imperial’s I3-Lab, a hub for interdisciplinary research bridging AI, systems theory, and digital infrastructure, and work in close collaboration with the IOTA Foundation.

The ideal candidate will have a strong mathematical, engineering and/orsystems background, withexpertisein one or more of the following areas: network theory, control systems, mechanics and design, or manufacturing. A demonstrated interest in decentralised technologies and their societal impact is essential.

You will carry out original research at the intersection of decentralised systems andremanufacture. Working within a vibrant, interdisciplinary team, you will design, model, and analyse new mechanisms for trust, coordination, and governance in distributed environments.

Areas of focus include,but are not limited to:

• Incentive and compliance mechanisms for decentralised platforms
• Safe and verifiable decentralised AI systems
• Informed decision-making through data-driven predictive models and digitaltwinning

You will also engage with external collaborators (including IOTA and CSEP), contribute to the mentoring of students and junior researchers, and help shape the strategic direction of the research group. Dissemination through top-tier publications and active participation in academic and industry forums will be expected.

The ideal candidate will hold a PhD (or equivalent experience) in Engineeringor a closely related discipline.

They will have a strong foundation in one or more of the following reas: (re-)manufacture, condition monitoring or digital twinning, and a demonstrated interest in decentralised systems and distributed ledgers.

They will be an independent researcher witha track recordof high-quality publications and experience working in collaborative, interdisciplinary environments. Excellent problem-solving, communication, and project management skills are essential, as is the ability to support and lead small research teams.

The candidate will be proactive in contributing to both academic outputs and the broader strategic goals of the lab, including engagement with external partners such as the IOTA Foundation and CSEP. They willdemonstrateintellectual curiosity, research ambition, and acommitment to developing trustworthy digital infrastructure for decentralised coordination in the sharing economy.

• The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution and be part of our mission to continue science for humanity.
• Sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 41 days off a year and generous pension schemes).
• Be part of a diverse, inclusive and collaborative work culture with various staff networks and resources to support your personal and professional wellbeing .

This is a full-time and fixed-term for 18 months role.

Please refer to the job description for a complete list of responsibilities, and the desirable and essential requirements.

If you require any further details about the role, please contact Prof Robert Shorten,

Attached documents are available under links. Clicking a document link will initialize its download.

Please note that job descriptions are not exhaustive, and you may be asked to take on additional duties that align with the key responsibilities mentioned above.

We reserve the right to close the advert prior to the closing date stated should we receive a high volume of applications. It is therefore advisable that you submit your application as early as possible to avoid disappointment.

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