Postdoctoral Research Associate

School of Mathematics

Postdoctoral Research Associate

UE07 - £41,885 - £49,798

Full time – 35 hours per week

Fixed term for between 1-2 years with the possibility of extension

We are looking for a postdoctoral research associate (PDRA) to conduct research within the Hodge Institute, in the School of Mathematics, in areas related to representation theory, cluster algebras, quantum topology, and interactions with quantum field theory.

The Opportunity:

The PDRA position will start on or around 1st July 2027, for between 1-2 years with the possibility of extension. It is funded by the University Research Fellowship of Dr. Alexander Shapiro (Alexander.Shapiro@ed.ac.uk). Overall, we would encourage applications from candidates with an independent research vision and portfolio, who would interact with the vibrant research community in the Hodge Institute. While the PDRA’s primary responsibility will be to conduct research (both individually and in collaboration with members of our group), they will also be encouraged to help organise Hodge Institute seminars and other group activities, to host research visitors, and (depending on funding source) to organise grant-funded workshops and conferences.

The positions come with a travel budget to host visitors and/or attend conferences and workshops, as well as an allowance for technology expenses.

Your skills and attributes for success:

• Ph.D. in pure mathematics or theoretical physics (to be awarded or almost completed before taking up the post)
• Evidenced research background in one or more of the following areas: representation theory, Poisson geometry, cluster algebra, quantum topology, topological quantum field theory.
• Desire and/or experience in fostering cohesiveness of a research group (e.g. leading informal reading seminars, organising team-building activities) and promoting a positive and inclusive research culture.

View the full Job Description (opens in a new browser tab)

How to apply

Please include the following documents in your application:

- CV

- Research statement

- Contact information for three referees. Letters will be requested for shortlisted candidates.

For informal enquiries please contact Dr. Alexander Shapiro (Alexander.Shapiro@ed.ac.uk).

As a valued member of our team, you can expect:

• A competitive salary.
• An exciting, positive, creative, challenging and rewarding place to work.
• To be part of a diverse and vibrant international community.
• Comprehensive Staff Benefits, including generous annual leave entitlement, a defined benefits pension scheme, a wide range of staff discounts, family-friendly initiatives, and flexible work options. Check out the full list on our staff benefits page (opens in a new tab) and use our reward calculator to discover the value of your pay and benefits.

Championing equality, diversity, and inclusion

The University of Edinburgh holds a Silver Athena SWAN award in recognition of our commitment to advance gender equality in higher education. We are members of the Race Equality Charter, and we are also a Stonewall Proud Employer, actively promoting LGBTQ+ equality. 

Prior to any employment commencing with the University, you will be required to evidence your right to work in the UK. Further information is available on our right to work webpages (opens new browser tab)

The University is able to sponsor the employment of international workers in this role. If successful, an international applicant requiring sponsorship to work in the UK will need to satisfy the UK Home Office’s English Language requirements and apply for and secure a Skilled Worker Visa.

Key dates to note

The closing date for applications is 10 December, 2026

Unless stated otherwise the closing time for applications is 11:59pm UK time. If you are applying outside the UK the closing time on our adverts automatically adjusts to your browsers local time zone. 

Interviews will be held in December 2026 and January 2027.

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