Research Assistant in Birmingham

Research Assistant in Birmingham

Birmingham Full-Time 30000 - 40000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
Aston University

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Join a cutting-edge research team developing ultra-low-power IoT systems and AI-driven video processing.
  • Company: Aston University, a vibrant campus in Birmingham with a focus on innovative research.
  • Benefits: Flexible working, 30 days annual leave, excellent training, and development opportunities.
  • Why this job: Contribute to world-leading research in sustainable AI and next-gen intelligent IoT systems.
  • Qualifications: Experience in research and a passion for IoT and AI technologies.
  • Other info: Dynamic working environment with collaboration opportunities with industry leaders.

The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.

Aston University is seeking a Research Associate to join the Centre for Cybersecurity, Privacy and Trust (CyberHub) and contribute to innovative research in Internet of Things (IoT), Edge AI and Tiny Machine Learning (TinyML). The role will focus on the design and development of battery‑less, ultra‑low‑power IoT systems capable of executing secure TinyML‑based visual perception algorithms directly at the edge. The postholder will investigate novel hardware‑software co‑design approaches enabling AI‑driven video processing on energy‑harvesting devices under extreme power constraints.

This project aims to develop prototype IoT devices operating below 100mW, supporting applications in security surveillance, smart infrastructure, supply‑chain monitoring and autonomous sensing systems. The research aligns with the UK’s national £12M EPSRC Edge AI Hub initiative, in which Aston University is a key partner.

You will join a dynamic and growing research environment within the School of Computer Science and Digital Technologies, working closely with leading academic and industry partners. The role will include contributing to research outputs, supporting postgraduate research activity, and participating in project dissemination and collaboration.

This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to world‑leading research in sustainable AI and next‑generation intelligent IoT systems.

What we offer:

  • Aston University is a dynamic and vibrant campus located within Birmingham city centre, which has excellent transport links via bus or train.
  • The role is offered as 'dynamic working', which means working both on campus and from home dependent on the activity.
  • Excellent training and development opportunities.
  • A generous annual leave scheme with 30 days bookable leave and a further 13 days of leave.

Research Assistant in Birmingham employer: Aston University

Aston University is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and dynamic work environment in the heart of Birmingham. With a strong focus on employee development, the university provides excellent training opportunities and a generous annual leave scheme, fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration within the Centre for Cybersecurity, Privacy and Trust. Joining Aston means being part of cutting-edge research in sustainable AI and IoT systems, while enjoying the flexibility of dynamic working arrangements that support a healthy work-life balance.
Aston University

Contact Detail:

Aston University Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Research Assistant in Birmingham

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Aston University, especially those in the CyberHub. A friendly chat can give us insider info and maybe even a referral!

✨Tip Number 2

Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio or a presentation that highlights your experience with IoT, Edge AI, and TinyML. We want to see how you can contribute to the innovative research at Aston.

✨Tip Number 3

Be ready for the interview! Research the latest trends in battery-less IoT systems and be prepared to discuss how your background aligns with their projects. Confidence is key, so practice makes perfect!

✨Tip Number 4

Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.

We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant in Birmingham

Internet of Things (IoT)
Edge AI
Tiny Machine Learning (TinyML)
Hardware-Software Co-Design
Visual Perception Algorithms
Energy-Harvesting Devices
Low-Power System Design
AI-Driven Video Processing
Prototype Development
Research Output Contribution
Postgraduate Research Support
Project Dissemination
Collaboration Skills
Sustainable AI

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Research Assistant role. Highlight your experience with IoT, Edge AI, and TinyML, and don’t forget to mention any relevant projects or research you've been involved in. We want to see how your skills align with our innovative research!

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about sustainable AI and next-generation IoT systems. Share specific examples of your work that relate to the job description, and let us know why you’d be a great fit for our team.

Showcase Your Research Skills: Since this role involves contributing to research outputs, make sure to highlight any previous research experience. Discuss methodologies you’ve used, any publications, or presentations you’ve given. We love seeing candidates who are proactive in their research journey!

Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our vibrant campus environment. We can’t wait to hear from you!

How to prepare for a job interview at Aston University

✨Know Your Stuff

Make sure you brush up on the latest trends in IoT, Edge AI, and TinyML. Familiarise yourself with the specific technologies mentioned in the job description, like battery-less systems and energy-harvesting devices. This will show that you're genuinely interested and knowledgeable about the field.

✨Showcase Your Projects

Prepare to discuss any relevant projects or research you've been involved in. If you've worked on hardware-software co-design or AI-driven video processing, be ready to explain your role and the outcomes. Concrete examples will help demonstrate your skills and experience.

✨Ask Smart Questions

Think of insightful questions to ask during the interview. Inquire about the current projects at CyberHub or how they envision the future of sustainable AI. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the role aligns with your interests.

✨Be Yourself

While it's important to be professional, don't forget to let your personality shine through. The team at Aston University is looking for someone who fits into their dynamic environment, so be genuine and let them see the real you!

Research Assistant in Birmingham
Aston University
Location: Birmingham

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