Each summer the Institute of Sustainability and Climate Change (ISCC) support a number of undergraduates at the University of Bath to take part in an eight-week, paid sustainability research placement.
With multiple research projects spanning the institute core themes of Sustainable Chemical Technologies, Sustainable Systems and Social Transformations, the ISCC Summer Placement scheme gives undergraduates the chance to work with Institute Core Members on real world sustainability research questions.
Successful applicants come from a wide variety of backgrounds but what connects them all is their strong interest in sustainability.
But what’s it really like to take part in this scheme?
The Institute caught up with three participants from last year’s scheme to find out.
Jibraan Kidwai spent his summer working across Psychology, Architecture and Civil Engineering (ACE) and the ISCC, contributing directly to national policy.
From running a 2,500‑response survey on electric vehicle awareness to analysing UK housing datasets for the Renters’ Rights consultation, Jibraan's work helped reveal how design, sustainability and housing quality affect public behaviour and health. Jibraan says:
'I never imagined that at 20 I’d be helping to inform government policy. It was incredible seeing the whole University come together around this.'
Summer Jeffery joined Dr Daniel Scott’s inorganic chemistry group to explore how light can drive and track chemical reactions in real time.
Working closely with a postdoc and PhD mentor, Summer learned how to navigate experiments that didn’t go to plan - gaining the confidence, independence and insight that confirmed she was ready for a PhD in catalysis. Summer says:
'I learned how to deal with things not working - trying again, seeing it still not working, and persevering. That’s what real research is.'
Sophie Mason collaborated with [Format Engineers](https://formatengineers.com/) and Architecture and Civil Engineering (ACE) to investigate whether unloved stone - waste from quarries and mines - could be repurposed for low‑carbon construction.
Sophie's project combined carbon analysis, feasibility work and unforgettable industry experiences, including visits into a local quarry and mine. Sophie says:
'I got to go into a mine and a quarry - when am I ever going to do that again? It really reinvigorated my passion for sustainability.'
ISCC Summer Research Placement
Explore how to apply for 2026 summer research placementsIf you are a high achieving undergraduate at the University of Bath in the middle of your degree, we welcome applications from students of a wide variety of science, engineering and social science disciplines who have a strong interest in sustainability.