13341 - Postdoctoral Research Associate

University of Edinburgh; City of Edinburgh; On-site; GBP 41,000 - 49,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading university in Scotland is seeking multiple postdoctoral research associates to conduct research in algebraic geometry, quantum topology, and related areas. Successful candidates will engage in collaborative projects, organize seminars, and help foster a positive research environment. A Ph.D. in pure mathematics or theoretical physics is required, with a starting date around 1st July 2026.

Benefits

Travel budget for conferences

Technology expenses allowance

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in pure mathematics or theoretical physics, awarded or almost completed.
• Evidence of research background in relevant areas like algebraic geometry and representation theory.
• Experience in promoting a positive research culture.

Responsibilities

• Conduct individual and collaborative research within the Hodge Institute.
• Organise Hodge Institute seminars and other activities.
• Host research visitors and assist with grant-funded workshops.

Skills

Research in algebraic geometry

Research in representation theory

Knowledge of quantum topology

Knowledge of topological quantum field theory

Experience in fostering research collaboration

Education

Ph.D. in pure mathematics or theoretical physics

Job description

Grade UE07: £41,064 to £48,822 per annum

College of Science and Engineering / School of Mathematics

Full-time: 35 hours per week

Fixed term: 12 - 36 months

The Opportunity

We are looking for three or more postdoctoral research associates (PDRA) to conduct research within the Hodge Institute, in the School of Mathematics, in areas related to algebraic geometry, quantum topology, representation theory, and interactions with quantum field theory and string theory.

These PDRA positions will start on or around 1st July 2026, with fixed terms of 1-3 years, depending on funding source (specified when offers are made). They are funded by grants held by the following staff members, in the following areas:

• Prof. Ben Davison ([e-mail]): algebraic geometry, representation theory
• Prof. Tudor Dimofte ([e-mail]): algebra & topology in QFT
• Prof. David Jordan ([e-mail]): quantum topology, TQFT
• Dr. Sasha Shapiro ([e-mail]): representation theory, Poisson geometry

Hires in both single research areas and multiple areas overlapping among PI’s are available. Overall, we would encourage applications from candidates with an independent research vision and portfolio, who would interact with the vibrant research community in the Hodge Institute and, as appropriate, the Edinburgh Mathematical Physics Group. While the PDRA’s primary responsibility will be to conduct research (both individually and in collaboration with members of our group), they will also be encouraged to help organise Hodge Institute seminars and other group activities, to host research visitors, and (depending on funding source) to organise grant-funded workshops and conferences.

The positions come with a travel budget to host visitors and/or attend conferences and workshops, as well as an allowance for technology expenses.

Skills and Attributes for Success

• Ph.D. in pure mathematics or theoretical physics (to be awarded or almost completed before taking up the post)
• Evidenced research background in one or more of the following areas: algebraic geometry, representation theory, Poisson geometry, vertex algebras, quantum topology, topological quantum field theory, supersymmetric quantum field theory.
• Desire and/or experience in fostering cohesiveness of a research group (e.g. leading informal reading seminars, organising team-building activities) and promoting a positive and inclusive research culture.

Application Process

Applicants should upload a CV and a brief research statement when applying for the post online. They should also indicate the contact information for three referees who are willing to provide letters of reference. Letters will be requested for shortlisted candidates at a later stage. For informal enquiries please contact any of the staff members listed above directly.