Job Summary
#CA-PS
The Senior Researcher provides advanced research, statistical, qualitative, policy, and programmatic support to research initiatives focused on building-energy systems and market transitions such as building electrification, load flexibility, and indoor air quality. The position supports the innovation and commercialization of advanced HVAC and ventilation solutions by evaluating emerging building-energy challenges requiring rigorous mixed-methods research designs-combining statistical analysis and large-scale survey research with qualitative interviews, focus groups, case studies, UI/UX usability testing, customer perspective evaluations, and workforce gap analysis. Operating with a high degree of autonomy as an experienced professional, the Senior Researcher independently designs survey instruments, determines sampling procedures, plans long-term statistical and qualitative studies, manages project databases, executes multivariate statistical testing, applies qualitative coding frameworks, implements data security protocols, and conducts policy analysis related to state/federal energy regulations. The role also leads outreach and communications efforts to engage stakeholders and disseminate research findings. The Senior Researcher collaborates with internal and external partners to support program development, inform strategic planning, and advance organizational objectives in buildingenergy research and policy.
The Market Transformation Research Program (MTRP) is situated within the Western Cooling Efficiency Center (WCEC). In addition to pursuing its own research agenda, the Program provides critical technical expertise to the WCEC to ensure the latter's engineering research is grounded in an understanding of the policy, economic, and behavioral factors that influence the market for the technologies the Center develops and tests. The Senior Researcher will work closely with the MTRP Director and other lead researchers to ensure the Program's strategic support amplifies the impact of the WCEC's engineering research. Apply By Date 10/16/2026 at 11:59pm Qualifications Minimum Qualifications - For full consideration, applicants are encouraged to upload license and/or certification if required of the position
- B.S. in sociology, public policy, statistics, data science, environmental social science, science & technology studies, or a related or a related discipline and/or equivalent experience/training.
- Demonstrated experience designing and executing mixed-methods research combining quantitative statistical analysis/survey design with qualitative interviews, focus groups, and case studies.
- Experience conducting policy or program evaluation in an applied research setting including policy analysis and stakeholder consultation.
- Thorough knowledge of research function and design; in qualitative research methods (interviews, surveys, content analysis, policy analysis).
- Skills in statistical analysis, survey methodology, multivariate analysis, and research software programming
- Thorough skills in analyzing and interpreting quantitative and qualitative research data
- Thorough skills in stakeholder engagement and communicating complex information clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing.
Preferred Qualifications
- Master's degree or Ph.D. in sociology, public policy, statistics, data science, environmental social science, science & technology studies, or a related or a related discipline and/or equivalent experience/training.
- Applied research experience related to building energy systems, HVAC, indoor air quality, load flexibility, building electrification, or adjacent clean energy technology deployment.
- Familiarity with UI/UX and usability research methods, including testing of consumer-facing energy technologies. Knowledge of building-energy technologies (e.g., heat pumps, advanced controls, mechanical ventilation systems), codes and standards, utility programs, and California or federal clean-energy policy landscape. Experience cultivating long-term stakeholder relationships across industry, government, and community-based organizations.
- Track record of peer-reviewed publications or academic/industry presentations.
- Experience with strategic communications, including website content, newsletters, and social media for research dissemination.
Key Responsibilities
- 85% - RESEARCH IMPLEMENTATION
- 10% - OUTREACH & COMMUNICATIONS
- 5% - PROPOSAL DEVELOPMENT
Department Overview The Western Cooling Efficiency Center (WCEC), a sub-center of the UC Davis Energy & Efficiency Institute (EEI), conducts applied engineering research and technology development to support innovation in heating, cooling, and ventilation technologies. WCEC conducts technology evaluations in its state-of-the-art thermal measurements and HVAC research lab and in the field, both in residential and commercial buildings. It has conducted laboratory and field evaluations of a wide range of systems, including direct and indirect evaporative coolers, air-source and ground-source heat pumps for space conditioning, heat pump water heaters, multifunction heat pumps, high-efficiency motors, ventilation devices, envelope sealing methods, residential dryer controls, thermostats, and variable refrigerant flow systems.
WCEC bridges the gap between research and practice, collaborating closely with industry to bring innovative technologies and solutions to market. WCEC has developed and commercialized multiple technologies and contributed to advancements in building codes and standards to support energy efficiency and proper mechanical ventilation in schools and multifamily buildings. The MTRP works with the WCEC to accelerate the development and commercialization of sustainable energy solutions. Work done by the Senior Researcher on behalf of the WCEC is critical to accomplishing major programs and initiatives that achieve this mission.
WCEC has 16 full-time engineering staff and researchers, as well as numerous graduate and undergraduate students. POSITION INFORMATION
Benefits Outstanding benefits and perks are among the many rewards of working for the University of California. UC Davis offers a full range of benefits, resources and programs to help you bring your best self to work, as well as to help you and your family achieve your health, wellness, financial and career goals. Learn more about the benefits below and eligibility by visiting UCnet Benefits Page or Benefits Summary for UC Davis Health Employees or Benefits Summary for UC Davis Employees.
- High quality and low-cost medical plans to choose from to fit your family's needs
- UC pays for dental and vision coverage for you and your family
- Retirement plans for eligible employees including Pension and other Retirement Saving Plans
- Supplemental insurance offered including additional life, short/long term disability, pet insurance, legal coverage, accident, critical illness and hospital indemnity
- Pregnancy and Parental Leave, Family & Medical Leave, Adoption Assistance and Pay for Family Care and Bonding for eligible employees
- Lactation Support Program and Family Care discounts and resources
- Employee Well-being resources and programming to support thriving in all aspects of employee's lives
- On-site Employee Assistance Program including access to free mental health services
- Generous amount of paid Holidays annually as outlined in the UC Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreements
- Paid Time Off/Vacation/Sick Time as outlined in the UC Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreements
- Continuing Education (CE) allowance and Staff Education Reimbursement Program for eligible employees
- Access to free professional development courses and learning opportunities for personal and professional growth
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Qualified Employer and Student Loan Debt Counseling Program for eligible employees
Physical Demands
- Standing - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Walking - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Sitting - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Lifting/Carrying 0-25 Lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Lifting/Carrying 26-50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Lifting/Carrying over 50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Pushing/Pulling 0-25 Lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Pushing/Pulling 26-50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Pushing/Pulling over 50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Bending/Stooping - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Squatting/Kneeling - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Twisting - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Climbing (e.g., stairs or ladders) - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Reaching overhead - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Keyboard use/repetitive motion - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
Environmental Demands
- Chemicals, dust, gases, or fumes - Never 0 Hours
- Loud noise levels - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Marked changes in humidity or temperature - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Microwave/Radiation - Never 0 Hours
- Operating motor vehicles and/or equipment - Never 0 Hours
- Extreme Temperatures - Never 0 Hours
- Uneven Surfaces or Elevations - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
Mental Demands
- Sustained attention and concentration - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
- Complex problem solving/reasoning - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Ability to organize & prioritize - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
- Communication skills - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
- Numerical skills - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Constant Interaction - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Customer/Patient Contact - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
- Multiple Concurrent Tasks - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
Work Environment UC Davis is a smoke and tobacco free campus effective January 1, 2014. Smoking, the use of smokeless tobacco products, and the use of unregulated nicotine products (e-cigarettes) will be strictly prohibited on any UC Davis owned or leased property, indoors and outdoors, including parking lots and residential space. Special Requirements - Please contact your recruiter with questions regarding which activities apply by position
Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; received notice of any allegations or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct; have left a position after receiving notice of allegations or while under investigation in an administrative or disciplinary proceeding involving misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer. A Culture of Opportunity and Belonging At UC Davis, we're committed to solving life's most urgent challenges and building a healthier, more resilient world. We believe in growing through every challenge, continually striving to improve, and welcoming new perspectives that strengthen our community. We recognize that a vibrant and innovative organization values both individual strengths and shared purpose. The best ideas often emerge when people with different experiences come together.
As you consider joining UC Davis, we invite you to explore our Principles of Community, our Clinical Strategic Plan and strategic vision for research and education. We believe you belong here. The University of California, Davis is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status.
To view the University of California's Anti-Discrimination Policy, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination
Because we want you to feel seen and valued, our recruitment process at UC Davis supports openness and authenticity. Research shows that some individuals hesitate to apply unless they meet every qualification. You may be an excellent fit for this role-or the next one. We encourage you to apply even if your experience doesn't match every listed requirement. #YouBelongHere
To learn more about our background check program, please visit: https://hr.ucdavis.edu/departments/recruitment/ucd/selection/background-checks
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University of California - Davis
parental leave, paid time off, paid holidays, sick time, long term disability, tuition reimbursement, remote work
Oct 03, 2026