Research Associate on the Physics of Learning (Fixed Term)

University of Cambridge; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious research institution in Cambridge is seeking a Research Fellow to advance studies in artificial intelligence using insights from mathematics and physics. The fellow will develop and conduct collaborative research, manage projects, and support student supervision. Candidates should be nearing completion of a Ph.D. in a relevant field with a demonstrated research track record. This is a fixed-term position with funding for 3 years, fostering a vibrant research community.

Qualifications

• Candidates must hold or be close to completing a Ph.D.
• Strong track record of research accomplishments is required.
• Ideal candidates have experience in theoretical physics and machine learning.

Responsibilities

• Develop and conduct individual and collaborative research objectives.
• Plan and manage own research and assist in preparing proposals.
• Communicate technical material and assist in supervising student projects.

Skills

Research accomplishments

Theoretical physics

Mathematics

Machine learning

Education

Ph.D. in Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science, or related field

Job description

Scientific Mission

The Simons Collaboration aims to develop a deeper scientific understanding of artificial intelligence and break AI out of its black box using insights and techniques from mathematics and theoretical physics. The fellow is expected to drive this endeavour through a combination of theory development and numerical experimentation, employing theoretical and numerical tools to understand how AI systems learn, compute, and scale. We also welcome candidates who wish to propose new research directions aligned with these goals.

Research Environment

Based in Cambridge, the fellow will be based in a vibrant local community for physics, AI-for-Science, and computer science. There will be opportunities to interact and collaborate with researchers in the Department of Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics (DAMTP) and the Infosys-Cambridge AI Lab.

Duties

Developing and conducting individual and collaborative research objectives, proposals and projects. The role holder will be expected to plan and manage their own research and administration, with guidance if required, and to assist in the preparation of proposals and applications to external bodies. You must be able to communicate material of a technical nature and be able to build internal and external contacts. You may be asked to assist in the supervision of student projects, the development of student research skills, provide instruction or plan/deliver seminars relating to the research area.

Qualifications

Candidates must hold (or be close to completing) a Ph.D. in Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science, or a related field. A strong track record of research accomplishments is required. Ideally, this involves a combination of theoretical physics, mathematics, and machine learning. We also welcome candidates who wish to move into this new emerging field of Physics-of-AI.

How to Apply

To apply online for this vacancy and to view further information about the role, please click on the ‘Apply’ button above.

Please indicate the contact email address of two academic referees on the online application form and upload a full curriculum vitae and a description of your recent research (not to exceed three pages).

Informal inquiries can be made by contacting [e-mail].

Queries about the application process should be addressed to [e-mail].

Shortlisted candidates will be contacted soon after the closing date.

Please quote reference LE48106 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

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.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 3 years.