Research Associate

Vacancy Ref: : 053117 

Contact Person : Jenny O’Donnell Contact Number : 01316502723

Contact Email : infhr@inf.ed.ac.uk

The Database Group at the School of Informatics, University of Edinburgh, is recruiting a post-doctoral researcher. The position is open to database researchers with a promising publication record who have a PhD, or are close to completing their PhD, in computer science or closely related field. A strong background in databases, machine learning, and theoretical computer science (particularly algorithms, complexity theory, and logic), as well as skills in systems aspects of databases and systems building experience, are particularly valuable.

This full time position is available (with a possibility of extension).

Informal enquiries should be directed to Dr Andreas Pieris (apieris@inf.ed.ac.uk).

Feedback will only be provided to interviewed candidates.

Salary: UE07 (£33,797 to £40,322pa)

  • Job Details

    Job title: Research Assistant (Grade 7)
    School/Support Department: School of Informatics
    Line manager: Principal Investigator

  • Project Information

    The post is in connection with the EPSRC grant “EQUID: Efficient Querying of Inconsistent Data” whose vision is to propose a practically applicable approach to the problem of querying inconsistent data based on efficient approximation algorithms that quickly deliver sufficiently good consistent answers.

  • Job Purpose

    The project involves research on several aspects of data management, especially handling inconsistency in databases. Prior research experience in this area, including theoretical foundations and practical aspects, is a plus.

    The position will require independent ideas-led research. You will be expected to work effectively with other researchers to produce high quality publications and demonstrations, and contribute to dissemination activities for the project, e.g., publishing papers in top conferences and journals.

  • Main Responsibilities

    In general, to support the Principal Investigator of the project in achieving the goals of that project, under his direction.

    • Undertaking a specific role in the research project under supervision
    • Taking responsibility for some elements of the planned research
    • Planning and carrying out a work programme appropriate to the research activity
    • Developing own research portfolio in related areas
    • Contributing to the writing of research grants
    • Contributing to dissemination and publication of personal and/or research teams findings as appropriate
  • Planning and Organising

    The post holder will have to agree a general plan of research with the Principal Investigator and progress will be monitored at pre-scheduled meetings.

  • Problem Solving

    The problems to be faced are purely scientific and the post holder will supply the detailed expertise for delivering a solution. They will be expected to achieve this under instruction by and with advice from the Principal Investigator and other academic and senior research staff.

  • Decision Making

    The post holder will determine the specific techniques and approaches to be used in the course of the research, in agreement with the Principal Investigator.

  • Key Contacts/Relationships

    The postholder will principally interact with the Principal Investigator and other project staff and students. More generally, the postholder will discuss the work, and other questions of scientific interest, with other members of the School of Informatics. The postholder will be expected to represent the University externally, by presenting their work at specialist meeting or workshops in the relevant research area. They may also be required to provide advice and support to relevant students.

  • Knowledge, Skills and Experience Needed for the Job Essential
    • Degree in appropriate field
    • PhD (or near completion) in computer science or closely related field
    • Prior research experience within data management, in particular database theory and/or database systems
    • Publications in leading international venues within the research area
    • Proven expertise in the techniques needed to undertake the research in question
    • Ability to communicate complex information clearly, orally and in writing.

    Desirable

    • Prior research experience within theoretical foundations of databases such as algorithms, complexity, automata, and logic
    • A strong background in databases, machine learning, and theoretical computer science (particularly algorithms, complexity theory, and logic)
    • Skills in systems aspects of databases and systems building experience

    You are also expected to work independently, have strong communication skills and be able to work in a team.

    Recruitment will aim at selecting those candidates with the best possible performance in all the above criteria.

  • Dimensions

    There are no line management responsibilities associated with this post.

    Application Procedure

    All applicants should apply online by clicking the apply link at the bottom of this page and submitting an up to date CV. The application process is quick and easy to follow, and you will receive email confirmation of safe receipt of your application. The online system allows you to submit a CV and other attachments.

    Right to Work

    In accordance with the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006 and Immigration Act 2016 the University of Edinburgh, as an employer, has a legal responsibility to prevent illegal working and therefore must check that all employees are entitled to work in the United Kingdom (UK).
    To do so, the University requires to see original documents evidencing right to work in the UK before commencement of employment and this is normally carried out at interview. Details will be provided in any letter of invitation to interview.

    For further information on right to work please visit our right to work webpage

    If You Are From Outside The EEA And Not Currently Eligible To Work In The UK, There Are Visa Routes That May Be Available To You, For Example

    • Global Talent: If you are an academic, researcher or technical specialist in the field of sciences; humanities; engineering; medicine; digital technology; or the arts, it may be possible for you to apply for a Global Talent visa. This route requires you to apply to be endorsed as an internationally recognised leader or emerging leader in your particular field by an endorsing body (Arts Council England, British Academy, Royal Academy of Engineering, Royal Society, Tech Nation, UK Research and Innovation (UKRI)). However, if you are applying for a senior academic role, e.g. Professor/Reader there is an accelerated route to endorsement. Further information can be found on the UKVI website
    • Tier 2: The University is a UKVI licensed sponsor and is able to issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to successful candidates who are offered highly skilled roles and meet the eligibility criteria. The CoS enables candidates to apply for a Tier 2 (general visa).

    Please Note If You Were Last Granted Leave To Stay In The UK In Any Tier 2 Category In The 12 Months Immediately Preceding An Application And The Leave Has Ended Or Expired, The CoS Which Led To That Grant Of Leave Was Issued For More Than 3 Months, And You Are Either

    • applying for entry clearance from outside the UK, or
    • you are in the UK and had a previous period of Tier 2 leave, but then changed (‘switched’) into a different immigration category and now wishes to apply again under Tier 2.

    You must wait 12 months before applying again.

    Further information about whether you require a visa and other visa routes can be found at: www.gov.uk/check-uk-visa

    Conditions of Employment

    Pension Scheme

    This role is grade UE07 and therefore the post holder is automatically included in membership of the Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS), subject to the USS membership criteria, unless they indicate that they choose not to join the Scheme.

    For further information please visit our Pensions website .

    Salary

    The role is grade UE07 and attracts an annual salary of £33,797 to £40,322 for 35 hours each week. Salary is paid monthly by direct transfer to your Bank or Building Society account, normally on the 28th of the month. Salaries for part-time staff are calculated on the full-time scales, pro-rata to the Standard Working Week.

    The University reserves the right to vary the candidate information or make no appointment at all. Neither in part, nor in whole does this information form part of any contract between the University and any individual.