Student Research Assistant - Faculty of Sustainable Design Engineering

Competition Number:
63S25
Position Type:
Student Position
Closing Date:
Date of Posting:
Department:
Faculty of Sustainable Design Engineering
Position:
Student Research Assistant
Contract:
Hours of Work:
Up to 40 hours per week
Salary:

$21.20 per hour, plus 4% vacation pay

Term:

As soon as possible - November 30, 2025

The Future Urban Energy Lab for Sustainability (FUEL-S) at the Faculty of Sustainable Design Engineering, UPEI, Prince Edward Island, Canada, is seeking a highly motivated and talented Student Research Assistant to join our dynamic research team focused on urban energy modeling, energy planning, and sustainability. This position offers a unique opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects aimed at transforming existing neighborhoods into sustainable and resilient communities. The successful candidate will be part of a collaborative and innovative research environment, working closely with a multidisciplinary team of experts. 

RESPONSIBILITIES:

As a Student Research Assistant, you will contribute to a multidisciplinary research project aimed at enhancing the sustainability and resilience of urban neighborhoods. Your responsibilities will involve: 

  • Data collection and integration from various sources, such as drones and building energy-related data 
  • Developing high-fidelity 3D neighborhood models
  • Developing machine learning-based automation techniques in building energy modeling and conducting simulations 
  • Hosting a community meeting with the people of the research location
  • Evaluating the resilience and adaptability of the built environment
  • Assessing climate change impacts and proposing adaptation strategies 
  • Working closely with graduate and undergraduate students 
  • Assisting in writing reports for funding agencies and journal publication

Your work will advance our understanding of sustainable urban development and contribute to building a more resilient future for communities. 

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • A current student in a related field (e.g., sustainable design engineering, energy systems, clean energy, mechanical/electrical engineering or a closely related discipline)
  • Strong background in urban/building energy modeling, simulation, and data analysis
  • Proficiency in Python or Matlab with relevant project work related to artificial intelligence and machine learning for urban/building energy modeling
  • Proficiency in relevant software tools (e.g., EnergyPlus, Grasshopper, OpenStudio, etc.) 
  • Excellent quantitative and analytical skills
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a diverse research team
  • Strong written and oral communication skills 
  • Experience in scientific writing for the preparation of scientific papers for publication and presentations for meetings and/or conferences

Priority will be given to University of Prince Edward Island students in accordance with Recruitment, Selection, Hiring and Employment Policies and the Procedures manual.

Application Instructions:

Please submit electronically a cover letter, quoting the competition number, a resume and reference list to be received no later than the closing date via the link below.

If you are unable to apply online, you can drop off your resume to the Human Resources Department, Kelley Building, University of Prince Edward Island, 550 University Avenue, Charlottetown, PEI C1A 4P3, Fax Number 902-894-2895.

UPEI is committed to equity, diversity, inclusion, and reconciliation and believes in providing a positive learning and working environment where every person feels empowered to contribute. UPEI is committed to the principle of equity in employment and encourages applications from underrepresented groups including women, Indigenous peoples, visible minorities, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity, and others with the skills and knowledge to productively engage with diverse communities. If you require accommodation in any part of the process, please direct your inquiries, in confidence, to our HR Officer, hrofficer@upei.ca. Applications will not be accepted via email.

Only those applicants who are invited to an interview will be acknowledged.

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UPEI encourages all qualified applicants to apply for job openings; however, in keeping with the terms and provisions of the university’s various employment and collective agreements, first priority will be given to internal candidates.