Postdoctoral Research Assistant

About the Role

We invite applications for the position of Postdoctoral Research Assistant (PDRA) in the School of Mathematical Sciences for the project “An ‘Erlangen Programme’ for AI ”, funded by the EPSRC. This is a large project across multiple universities including including Oxford, Imperial, Southampton, Durham, and Aberdeen. The successful applicant will work with Dr. Omer Bobrowski and Dr. Primoz Skraba, to bridge the gap between topology and deep learning by investigating how stochastic topological tools can be developed and used to systematically analyse, interpret, and improve the performance of deep neural networks. The position will involve collaborations with researchers at the other universities in the hub as well as opportunities for attending workshops and conferences.

The successful applicant will have, or soon obtain, a PhD degree in mathematics or related area, or equivalent level of professional qualifications and experience, with expertise in at least one of the areas: machine learning, applied topology, and/or probability theory.

 About the School

The School has an exceptionally strong research presence across the spectrum of Mathematical Sciences. It is part of the Faculty of Science and Engineering, which comprises five schools and two institutes. The Faculty’s student population has grown in recent years within the UK and overseas, and its research profile has strengthened considerably.

The School has large and popular undergraduate and graduate programmes, and aims to continue to expand its research profile as well as its study programmes across UG and PGT. This position is based in the Centre for Data Science, Statistics and Probability. Other Centres include the Centre for Combinatorics, Algebra & Number Theory, the Centre for Geometry, Analysis and Gravitation, the Centre for Dynamical Systems, Statistical Physics and Complex Systems, and the Centre for Mathematical Education.

The School comprises 85 academic staff, 16 research assistants and 14 members of professional services staff. The School is home to around 80 PhD students, and approximately 1,000 undergraduates and 100 master level students. 

Benefits

We offer competitive salaries, access to a generous pension scheme, 30 days’ leave per annum (pro-rata for part-time/fixed-term), a season ticket loan scheme and access to a comprehensive range of personal and professional development opportunities. In addition, we offer a range of work life balance and family friendly, inclusive employment policies, flexible working arrangements, and campus facilities including an on-site nursery at the Mile End campus.

The post is based at Mile End Campus. It's full-time 3-year fixed-term, expected start in September 2024 or as soon as possible thereafter. Salary is Grade 5* £47,178 - £49,785 per annum inclusive of London Allowance.

* If appointed in Lieu of PhD, salary start will be £36,572 per annum until PhD is awarded.

Queen Mary’s commitment to our diverse and inclusive community is embedded in our appointments processes. Reasonable adjustments will be made at each stage of the recruitment process for any candidate with a disability. We are open to considering applications from candidates wishing to work flexibly.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

The School holds a departmental Bronze Athena SWAN Award and is a registered supporter of the LMS Good Practice scheme. We are committed to the equality of opportunities and to advancing women’s careers and strongly encourage applications from female applicants. Please visit www.qmul.ac.uk/maths for information about the School and our family friendly and parental leave polices.