15186 - Postdoctoral Research Associate

The University of Edinburgh; City of Edinburgh; On-site; GBP 34,000 - 46,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Travel budget for visitors

Technology expenses allowance

Job summary

The University of Edinburgh’s Hodge Institute, in the School of Mathematics, invites applications for a fixed-term postdoctoral research associate to pursue research in representation theory, cluster algebras, quantum topology, and interfaces with quantum field theory. The position starts around 1 July 2027 for 1–2 years, with possible extension.

The successful candidate will conduct independent and collaborative research, help organise seminars, host visitors, and may organise workshops.

Qualifications

• PhD in pure mathematics or theoretical physics (to be awarded or almost completed before taking up the post).
• Evidence of research in representation theory, Poisson geometry, cluster algebra, quantum topology or topological quantum field theory.
• Desire to foster a cohesive research group and promote an inclusive research culture.

Responsibilities

• Conduct independent and collaborative research in the listed areas.
• Organise Hodge Institute seminars and group activities, host visitors.
• Organise grant-funded workshops and conferences when funding permits.

Skills

Representation theory

Cluster algebras

Quantum topology

Research collaboration

Education

PhD in pure mathematics or theoretical physics

Job description

Fixed term for between 1-2 years with the possibility of extension

We are looking for a postdoctoral research associate (PDRA) to conduct research within the Hodge Institute, in the School of Mathematics, in areas related to representation theory, cluster algebras, quantum topology, and interactions with quantum field theory.

The Opportunity:

The PDRA position will start on or around 1st July 2027, for between 1-2 years with the possibility of extension. It is funded by the University Research Fellowship of Dr. Alexander Shapiro ([e-mail]). 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. 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.

Your 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: representation theory, Poisson geometry, cluster algebra, quantum topology, topological 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.