Post Doctoral Research Associate (CoSTAR Foresight Lab)

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

Job summary

A prominent UK university is seeking a researcher to join its CoSTAR Foresight Lab. This full-time position involves conducting leading research on convergent screen technologies and collaborating with various partners in the Creative Industries. The candidate must have a PhD in a relevant field and expertise in quantitative data analysis. The role offers a dynamic work environment, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth. Ideal candidates will have proven research experience and effective communication skills.

Benefits

Flexible working

Family-friendly initiatives

Supportive work environment

Qualifications

• PhD in relevant fields such as Digital Sociology, Digital Humanities, Business Studies, or Computational Sciences.
• Expertise in quantitative data analysis and experience with tools like R, Python, or Gephi.
• Proven research experience and a track record of outstanding publications.
• Ability to write up academic studies and disseminate research findings to diverse audiences.
• Experience in international collaborations and excellent communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Conduct leading research associated with CoSTAR with partners and the academic team.
• Engage in world-class research and contribute to workshops and projects.
• Manage administrative tasks related to research milestones and outputs.
• Undertake independent research within the Creative Industries.
• Collaborate with international teams and represent the University at events.

Skills

Quantitative data analysis

R

Python

Gephi

Research experience

Communication skills

Education

PhD in Digital Sociology, Digital Humanities, Business Studies, or Computational Sciences

Job description

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

CAHSS / Edinburgh College of Art / Institute for Design Informatics

Full Time 35 hours/week

Fixed Term: 1st Feb 2026 – 31st March 2029

The Opportunity

Join the CoSTAR Foresight Lab at the Institute for Design Informatics, Edinburgh College of Art, to contribute to a multidisciplinary project focused on convergent screen technologies and performance. You will play a key role in advancing research and innovation in the Creative Industries, collaborating with partners across the UK.

Your Responsibilities

• Conduct leading research associated with CoSTAR, co‑produced with partner organisations and the academic team.
• Engage in world‑class research and contribute to workshops, events and projects as part of the CoSTAR programme.
• Manage administrative tasks related to the research, ensuring milestones are met and outputs delivered.
• Undertake independent research within the Creative Industries, as agreed with the Edinburgh CoSTAR lead.
• Collaborate with international teams and represent the University at meetings, workshops, and conferences.

Your Skills and Attributes for Success

• A PhD in relevant fields such as Digital Sociology, Digital Humanities, Business Studies, or Computational Sciences.
• Expertise in quantitative data analysis and experience with tools like R, Python, or Gephi.
• Proven research experience and a track record of outstanding publications.
• Ability to write up academic studies and disseminate research findings to diverse audiences.
• Experience in international collaborations and excellent communication skills.

Click to view a copy of the full job description.

Application Information

Please ensure you upload a Covering Letter, CV and highest qualification certificate to your application.

As a Valued Member of Our Team, You Can Expect

• Collaboration within a dynamic team of academics and researchers.
• Engagement in innovative research initiatives with industry partners.
• A supportive and diverse work environment, promoting gender equality and inclusivity.
• Competitive reward package and a range of staff benefits, including flexible working and family‑friendly initiatives.

Championing equality, diversity and inclusion

The University of Edinburgh holds a Silver Athena SWAN award in recognition of our commitment to advance gender equality in higher education. We are members of the Race Equality Charter and we are also Stonewall Scotland Diversity Champions, actively promoting LGBT equality.

Prior to any employment commencing with the University you will be required to evidence your right to work in the UK. Further information is available on our right to work webpages.

On this occasion the University will not consider applicants requiring sponsorship for this role. International workers will therefore only be able to take up this role if they can demonstrate an alternative right to work in the UK.

Key dates to note

The closing date for applications is 5th January 2026.

Unless stated otherwise the closing time for applications is 11:59pm GMT. If you are applying outside the UK the closing time on our adverts automatically adjusts to your browsers local time zone.

Interviews dates to be confirmed.