I've posted some background on the research I'm just embarking on, to provide a little more detail for all those of you who have been asking and as an embellishment to the many conversations I've had with friends on the subject. You can read it here.

In short the research involves using computational methods to help increase the energy efficiency of transport networks in cities. The research draws on complexity science and network theory, and the output is a set of tools & techniques that allow policy makers to design more efficient transport systems.