We are looking to appoint an outstanding Research Associate to undertake research on the regulation and incentivisation of CO2 transport, injection and storage as part of the Agile Initiative at the University of Oxford. You will help lead Agile’s analysis of the relevant legislation, environmental guidance, and policies, working with Prof Myles Allen, Dr Steve Smith, and with other leading researchers in the Initiative – including Prof Mike Kendall, Prof Natalie Seddon, and fellow Research Associates across the University.

 

Carbon capture and storage (CCS) is a crucial component of national and global strategies to reach net zero emissions and end global warming. It involves transporting captured CO2 via pipelines or ships, and injecting it into underground geological formations such as saline aquifers and depleted oil and gas wells. Successful CCS will require risks around CO2 re-release and environmental damage to be minimised. In the UK and across several other jurisdictions, a range of incentives and regulatory approaches are developing both for minimising these risks and for stimulating CCS activity. These approaches can differ in the risks that they choose to address and in the mechanisms they adopt.

 

The successful applicant will be expected to manage their own academic research and administrative activities to meet deadlines. The post holder will prepare working theories and analyse qualitative and/or quantitative data from a variety of sources, in order to survey and assess regulations in multiple jurisdictions. You will act as a source of information and advice to other members of the group on CCS regulations. As part of your role, you will publish findings in project reports and in a high-quality peer-reviewed journal and collaborate in the preparation of wider team research publications and outputs. 

 

You must have a relevant undergraduate degree in engineering, environmental science, law or a related discipline, with relevant experience. You will possess sufficient specialist knowledge in the discipline to work within established research programmes. The ability to manage own academic research and associated activities is essential.

 

Applications are particularly welcome and encouraged from women, black, and minority ethnic candidates, who are under-represented in posts in SoGE. SoGE are committed to equality and value diversity.

 

The post is full-time for 1 year.

 

Applications for this vacancy are to be made online. You will be required to upload a CV and supporting statement as part of your online application.

 

The closing date for applications is 12.00 noon (UK time) on 31 May 2023, and interviews are likely to be held in early to mid-June.