Research Assistant/Associate in Theoretical Computer Science (Fixed Term)

University of Cambridge; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading university in the UK is seeking a postdoctoral researcher to join a research group focused on advancing research in classical and quantum complexity theory. Candidates must hold a PhD in Computer Science or a relevant area. The position offers collaborative opportunities and engagement with the theoretical computer science community.

Benefits

Additional 2.5% salary supplement

Qualifications

• Successful candidates will hold (or be close to completing) a PhD in Computer Science.
• Appointment at research associate level depends on having a PhD or equivalent skills.
• Where a PhD has yet to be awarded, initially appointed as Research Assistant.

Responsibilities

• Conduct cutting-edge research on complexity theory and quantum algorithms.
• Collaborate with faculty members and PhD students.
• Engage with the broader quantum computing and theoretical computer science communities.

Skills

Complexity theory

Quantum algorithms and complexity

Sublinear algorithms

Interactive proofs

Zero-knowledge proofs

Education

PhD in Computer Science or relevant subject area

Job description

Overview

Fixed‑term: The funds for this post are available for 2 years in the first instance.

The Department of Computer Science and Technology is an academic department that encompasses computer science along with many aspects of engineering, technology and mathematics. We have a worldwide reputation for academic research with consistent top research ratings. The Department has an open and collaborative culture, supporting revolutionary fundamental computer science research, strong cross‑cutting collaborations internally and externally, and ideas that transform computing outside the University.

Applications are invited for a postdoctoral researcher to join Professor Tom Gur’s research group in the Department of Computer Science and Technology at the University of Cambridge, UK. This position is part of a broader effort to advance fundamental research in classical and quantum complexity theory.

Responsibilities

The successful candidate will conduct cutting‑edge research on topics including, but not limited to:

• Complexity theory
• Quantum algorithms and complexity
• Sublinear algorithms
• Interactive proofs, PCPs, and zero‑knowledge proofs
• The interplay of TCS with harmonic analysis and additive combinatorics

There will be opportunities for collaboration with faculty members and PhD students and to engage with the broader quantum computing and theoretical computer science communities at Cambridge.

Essentia Criteria

Successful candidates will hold (or be close to completing) a PhD in Computer Science or a relevant subject area. Appointment at the research associate level depends upon having a PhD or equivalent skills and experience through non‑academic routes. Where a PhD has yet to be awarded, appointment will initially be made as a Research Assistant and amended to Research Associate when the PhD is awarded.

Application Requirements

• Cover letter
• Curriculum vitae
• Brief research statement
• Contact information for two references

In addition to the base salary, the successful candidate for this post will receive an additional 2.5% supplement to their pay.

Contact

For further information please contact Professor Tom Gur: [e-mail]. Please quote reference NR47655 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK. We provide support for the visa application process (if required) and reimburse the cost of the first visa.