Department York School of Architecture (YSA), University of York — We are recruiting a Research Trainee to join an international collaboration with the National Research Council of Canada (NRC) on low-carbon, offsite/modular construction. The project develops robust methods and open datasets for whole-life carbon (WLC) and life-cycle cost (LCC) assessment, alongside comparative case studies that put modular and conventional approaches on a fair footing. You’ll work in a supportive, interdisciplinary environment across architecture, engineering and data science, with direct engagement from public bodies and industry partners. We are committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive community – a place where we can all be ourselves and succeed on merit. We offer a range of family friendly, inclusive employment policies (such as job sharing), flexible working arrangements, staff engagement forums, campus facilities and services to support staff from different backgrounds. EqualityatYork. Role You’ll be a core researcher helping to: (i) synthesise international evidence on WLC/LCC for modular systems; (ii) co-design transparent methods aligned to relevant standards; (iii) build and document research-grade datasets; and (iv) deliver applied analyses with Canadian case studies. Typical duties include literature synthesis and meta-analysis; data model and workflow design; primary/secondary data collection with manufacturers and project teams; drafting journal articles, industry white papers and guidance; presenting at project events; and contributing to open, reproducible research assets. You will collaborate closely with NRC colleagues and UK/Canadian stakeholders, help coordinate milestones and ethics/data governance, and (as appropriate) mentor PhD/PGT students involved in the programme. Skills, Experience & Qualification needed Essential Degree in quantitative disciplines with proven application to built-environment disciplines. Strong quantitative skills and demonstrable expertise in life-cycle assessment for buildings (embodied/whole-life carbon) and rigorous research methods. Proficiency in data handling and analysis; ability to develop, and design documentation for, open datasets. Evidence of high-quality academic writing (published papers/reports) and effective presentation to technical and non-technical audiences. Experience working collaboratively with external partners and managing ethical/data considerations. Organised, proactive, and inclusive in approach, with the ability to meet deadlines across parallel work packages. Experience of international collaboration; willingness to travel for project activities. Desirable: PhD in a built environment related discipline Multiple peer-reviewed academic publications Experience integrating WLC with life-cycle costing (LCC) for decision support. Knowledge of offsite/modular and/or mass-timber systems, construction product data and supply-chain engagement. Familiarity with BIM/data schemas, environmental product declarations, and relevant standards (e.g., EN 15978/ISO LCA). Track record in datasets development and stakeholder-facing outputs (white papers, guidance). Knowledge of Canadian context, ideally from a built environment perspective Interview date: 03 December 2025 For informal enquiries: please contact the Principal Investigator, Professor Francesco Pomponi ( francesco.pomponi@york.ac.uk ) for informal discussions about this role. The University strives to be diverse and inclusive – a place where we can ALL be ourselves. We particularly encourage applications from people who identify as Black, Asian or from a Minority Ethnic background, who are underrepresented at the University. We offer family friendly, flexible working arrangements, with forums and inclusive facilities to support our staff. EqualityatYork