Research Associate/ Fellow in Digital Agriculture (Fixed Term)

University of Nottingham; Sutton Bonington; On-site; GBP 36,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Nottingham invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Digital Agriculture at the Sutton Bonington Campus. The role focuses on applying AI/ML and process-based modelling to build digital twin prototypes for sustainable tropical perennial crops, starting with cocoa.

You will collaborate with the Centre for Sustainable Agricultural Systems, School of Mathematics, industry partners and farmers to bridge research and practice and to advance resilient, productive

Qualifications

• Postdoctoral Research Associate position in digital agriculture.
• Experience applying AI/ML to agricultural systems.
• Experience bridging research and practical applications.

Responsibilities

• Support applied research and innovation projects in digital agriculture.
• Develop AI/ML approaches and digital twins for crops, starting with cocoa.
• Collaborate with researchers, industry partners and farmers to translate findings.
• Engage with the Centre for Sustainable Agricultural Systems and the Food Systems Institute.

Skills

AI

Machine learning

Digital agriculture

Research collaboration

Education

PhD or equivalent research experience

Tools

Python

Job description

Research Associate/ Fellow in Digital Agriculture (Fixed Term)

Location
Sutton Bonington

Salary
£32,080 to £47,389per annum, depending on skills and experience (minimum £35608 with relevant PhD).

Closing Date
Friday 20 November 2026

Reference
SCI833526

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Digital Agriculture to work across projects focused on supporting agricultural innovation in UK and global farming systems, based within the Centre for Sustainable Agricultural Systems at the University of Nottingham's Sutton Bonington Campus, and in partnership with the School of Mathematics

As a Postdoctoral Research Associate, you will support applied research and innovation projects that test and scale sustainable practices in real-world settings. A key focus will be developing AI and machine learning approaches, coupled with process-based modelling, to create digital twin prototypes for sustainable tropical perennial crop production, focussing initially on cocoa.

Working with leading researchers, industry partners, and farmers, you will play a central role in bridging the gap between research and practice, helping to accelerate the transition towards more resilient, productive, and environmentally responsible farming systems.

You will collaborate closely with researchers from across the University of Nottingham's Centre for Sustainable Agricultural Systems and the Food Systems Institute, bringing together interdisciplinary expertise to deliver impactful solutions across the agri-food chain.

A key part of the role will involve building strong connections with industry stakeholders, enabling knowledge exchange and supporting collaborative innovation that supports both environmental outcomes and enhances business performance.

This post offers an excellent opportunity to expand your technical expertise, develop new skills, and grow your professional networks while making a tangible impact on sustainable agriculture. You will be part of a vibrant community of researchers and practitioners working at the forefront of agricultural sustainability, with the support and resources to shape meaningful change in food and farming systems.

This is a full-time post (36.25 hours per week), available immediately and initially funded for six months, with the potential for extension and an end date no later than 31 July 2027. Job share arrangements may be considered.

Our university is a supportive, inclusive, caring and positive community. We welcome those of different cultures, ethnicities and beliefs - indeed this very diversity is vital to our success, it is fundamental to our values and enriches life on campus. Visit our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion website.

To help you succeed, we published Candidate Guidance to provide support on the application and interview process.

We welcome applications from UK, Europe and worldwide and aim to make your move to the UK as smooth as possible. Visit the Moving to Nottingham page for details.

Your application will be considered on an equal basis, subject to the relevant permission to work in the UK as set out by UK Visas & Immigration.