Research Associate in Thermal Physiology and Exercise

1 FTE, 6 months fixed-term contract.

Laboratory based work.

Loughborough University is an amazing place to work, with an atmosphere of determination, ambition, and desire to make a difference, our collaborative environment inspires both staff and students to be the very best they can be. With over 3,000 members of staff, you can expect huge variety and new opportunities every day.

Here’s more about the role and what we’re looking for:

The Environmental Ergonomics Research Centre is seeking an enthusiastic and highly organised Research Associate to join us on an exciting project investigating the physiological and perceptual responses of people’s physical work capacity in the heat, pre and post acclimatisation. This work will include physiological studies in hot conditions in the climatic chambers with human participants.

The successful candidate should be able to implement research protocols, conduct studies in climatic chambers, and manage participant recruitment. Responsibilities also include data analysis, ethics applications, literature reviews, and contributing to project reports and publications. The role further involves supporting lab operations and collaborating with academic and industry partners. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to impactful research shaping the future of school environments.

Key Requirements:

• PhD (or near completion) in physiology, environmental ergonomics, or a related field.
• Experience with human participant research and thermal physiology.
• Strong analytical and statistical skills.
• Excellent communication and organisational abilities.

Informal enquiries should be directed to Professor Simon Hodder, via email to s.hodder@lboro.ac.uk or by telephone to 01509 223685.

The closing date is Tuesday, 8th September 2026 at midnight. Interviews will be conducted week commencing 28th September 2026.

For more details, please refer to the Job Description and Person Specification.

Our Benefits
At Loughborough, our benefits are designed to support your life inside and outside of work, helping you to thrive and feel valued as part of our community. Examples of our benefits include:

Time off - generous holiday allowance, including 14 university closure days and bank holidays, with the option to buy extra through our holiday purchase scheme.

Where you work – access to a range of fantastic facilities with plenty of green space across our 523-acre East Midlands campus, plus an exciting community at our London campus on the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.

Financial wellbeing – competitive pay, two excellent pension schemes, and everyday savings opportunities.

Support for you and your family – on-site nursery at our East Midlands campus, flexible and hybrid working options, and a range of family-friendly policies.

Health and wellbeing – discounted gym memberships and access to world-class sporting facilities, including physiotherapy, plus healthcare offers such as eyesight testing and wellbeing support.

Travel and sustainability - access to our electric vehicle and cycle-to-work schemes, as well as a variety of travel offers to support sustainable commuting.

Discover more about the full range of rewards and benefits at Loughborough University.