Postdoctoral Research Associate

Grade UE07: £41,064 to £48,822 per annum

College of Science and Engineering / School of Mathematics

Full-time: 35 hours per week 

Fixed term: months 

We are looking for three or more postdoctoral research associates (PDRA) to conduct research within the Hodge Institute, in the School of Mathematics, in areas related to algebraic geometry, quantum topology, representation theory, and interactions with quantum field theory and string theory.

The Opportunity:

These PDRA positions will start on or around 1st July 2026, with fixed terms of 1-3 years, depending on funding source (specified when offers are made). They are funded by grants held by the following staff members, in the following areas:

•    Prof. Ben Davison ): algebraic geometry, representation theory

•    Prof. Tudor Dimofte ): algebra & topology in QFT

•    Prof. David Jordan ): quantum topology, TQFT

•    Dr. Sasha Shapiro ): representation theory, Poisson geometry
Hires in both single research areas and multiple areas overlapping among PI's are available. 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 and, as appropriate, the Edinburgh Mathematical Physics Group. 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: algebraic geometry, representation theory, Poisson geometry, vertex algebras, quantum topology, topological quantum field theory, supersymmetric 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.

Applicants should upload a CV and a brief research statement when applying for the post online. They should also indicate the contact information for three referees who are willing to provide letters of reference. Letters will be requested for shortlisted candidates at a later stage. For informal enquiries please contact any of the staff members listed above directly.

Click to view a copy of the full job description.

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, such as a generous holiday entitlement, competitive pension schemes, staff discounts, and family-friendly initiatives. Check out the full list on our staff benefits page (opens in a new tab) and use our reward calculator to discover the total 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 Stonewall Scotland Diversity Champions, actively promoting LGBT 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 may be able to sponsor the employment of international workers in this role. This will depend on a number of factors specific to the successful applicant.

Key dates to note
The closing date for applications is 10 December 2025.

The closing time for applications is 11:59pm GMT. 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 2025 and January 2026.