Postdoctoral Research Associate (Blockchain Incentives and Fairness), CSEE

University of Essex; Colchester; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

An established academic institution seeks a postdoctoral researcher for an innovative project on blockchain technology. This role involves applying advanced theoretical frameworks to analyze blockchain protocols and enhance fairness properties. The ideal candidate will possess a PhD in a relevant field and demonstrate a developing research agenda with a record of publications. The university promotes diversity and internationalism, providing a supportive environment for researchers. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research while being part of a vibrant academic community.

Qualifications

• PhD in a relevant field such as Algorithmic Game Theory or Computer Science.
• Developing research agenda with publications in reputable journals.

Responsibilities

• Deliver research objectives for the Blockchain incentives project.
• Conduct theoretical analysis using frameworks like Algorithmic Game Theory.

Skills

Algorithmic Game Theory

Programming

Algorithm Design

Analytical Skills

Problem-Solving Skills

Communication Skills

Education

PhD in Algorithmic Game Theory

PhD in Computer Science

PhD in Operational Research

PhD in Mathematics

Job description

The School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering (CSEE) is a large and vibrant department in the Faculty of Science and Health at the University of Essex, committed to excellence in research; it is 6th in the UK for research power and 9th for research impact, while 100% of its research impact was rated world-leading or internationally excellent (REF 2021). CSEE is internationally known for its research in a range of areas and offers a broad range of degree courses to its students.

The research portfolio of CSEE is arranged around four established research groups; the Artificial Intelligence (AI) research group being one of its pillars. Within the AI research group is the special interest group which forms a strong core of Algorithmic Game Theory (AGT) research in the UK.

Duties of the Role

The postdoctoral research will be integral to the ambitious "Blockchain incentives: consensus and fairness" project, aimed at providing a systematic analysis of blockchain protocols with respect to the strategic behaviour of the stakeholders and related fairness properties, towards designing novel theoretical variants that can inform and improve blockchain technology in practice.

The main duties will include delivering the research objectives defined by the "Blockchain incentives: consensus and fairness" research project; undertaking theoretical analysis by applying frameworks such as Algorithmic Game Theory, Mechanism Design, Markov Decision Processes, probabilistic analysis, stochastic games, fair division etc. and writing and disseminating the work conducted in the context of the project.

A full list of duties and responsibilities (Research; Leadership and Citizenship) can be found within the job pack.

This post is fixed term from 01 October 2025 until 30 September 2027.

Qualifications and Skills required

You will hold a PhD in Algorithmic Game Theory, Computer Science, Operational Research, Mathematics, or a related discipline.

You must have evidence of a developing research agenda with a developing record of publications in internationally recognised, reputable journals appropriate to career stage and discipline norms, or evidence of research outputs such as reports and briefings.

In addition, you will have research experience in Algorithmic Game Theory or a related field and proficiency in programming and algorithm design.

Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills together with strong written and verbal communication skills are essential.

The University of Essex is a campus based University and all academic appointments are made with the expectation that you will be present on campus to fulfil the requirements of your position. At the time of a job offer, the possibility of hybrid working, will be discussed and considered on an individual basis, but you will be required to be based within the UK.

At the University of Essex, internationalism and diversity is central to who we are and what we do. We are committed to being a cosmopolitan, internationally oriented university that is welcoming to staff and students from all countries, faiths and backgrounds, where you can find the world in one place.

Please see the attached job pack, which contains a full job description and person specification which outlines the full duties, skills, qualifications and experience needed for this role plus more information relating to the post. We recommend you read this information carefully before making an application. Applications should be made on-line, but if you would like advice or help in making an application, or need information in a different format, please contact [e-mail]

*More information: Working at the University