Research Assistant/Research Associate (Fixed Term)

Research Assistant/Research Associate (Fixed Term)

Full-Time 36000 - 60000 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
Go Premium
C

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Develop innovative AI solutions for archival research and collaborate with top-tier international teams.
  • Company: Join a leading university at the forefront of digital humanities and AI research.
  • Benefits: Gain valuable experience, work in a dynamic environment, and contribute to groundbreaking projects.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in the intersection of AI and humanities while advancing your career.
  • Qualifications: PhD in relevant fields and proficiency in Python; expertise in digital humanities or AI is a plus.
  • Other info: Fixed-term position with excellent opportunities for professional growth and collaboration.

The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.

Applications are invited for a full‑time post‑doctoral researcher to work on an international collaboration to develop AI‑based solutions for research on archival materials as part of the Humanities and AI Virtual Institute (HAVI), funded by the Schmidt Sciences Foundation. This position is being hired for a project working on novel solutions at the interface of AI, knowledge graphs, computer vision, and the digital humanities. The goal is to develop an innovative AI architecture that is flexible and extensible enough to serve as a knowledge representation framework for the humanities.

The current working prototype for this unique design avoids the pitfalls of traditional knowledge graph architecture, is transparent and interpretable, allows queries of high complexity, and has the ability to perform reasoning and generate novel insights from the represented data. The researcher will work with Dr Sebastian Ahnert, head of the Structural Complexity research group in the Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, and an affiliate of Cambridge Digital Humanities. They will also collaborate closely with teams of faculty and researchers at the Center for Spatial and Textual Analysis, Stanford University, and at the DensityDesign Lab at the Politecnico di Milano.

We seek highly motivated and creative candidates, proficient in Python, and with expertise in one or more of the following areas: digital humanities, knowledge graphs, ontologies, graph databases, network analysis, natural language processing, computer vision. They should also have a PhD in one of the following areas: Digital Humanities, Computer Science, Physical Science, Engineering, Mathematics, Statistics, Data Science, or a closely related discipline.

Key Responsibilities
  • A new knowledge graph architecture in the form of Python libraries, building on existing prototypes.
  • A computer vision pipeline to aid knowledge graph construction.
  • A prototype interface, developed in collaboration with the design team, for the interactive exploration of manuscript images and metadata.
  • Effective liaison with humanities researchers to translate humanities research questions into algorithmic queries of the knowledge graph.
  • Iterative development of the overall AI architecture that is responsive to the requirements of the diverse range of humanities case studies led by faculty at Stanford University as part of the team.

Fixed‑term: The funds for this post are available for 2 years in the first instance. Applications closing date 29th of March 2026. Please quote reference NQ49054 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy. The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

Research Assistant/Research Associate (Fixed Term) employer: Cambridge University Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology

The University of Cambridge offers an exceptional work environment for researchers, fostering innovation and collaboration at the intersection of AI and the humanities. With access to world-class resources and a diverse team of experts, employees benefit from a culture that values creativity, inclusivity, and professional growth. This fixed-term position not only provides the opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research but also allows for meaningful engagement with leading institutions like Stanford University and Politecnico di Milano.
C

Contact Detail:

Cambridge University Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Research Assistant/Research Associate (Fixed Term)

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the digital humanities and AI fields. Attend relevant events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself to potential collaborators or mentors. You never know who might have a lead on your dream job!

✨Tip Number 2

Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your projects related to knowledge graphs, computer vision, or any relevant work. This can be a great conversation starter during interviews and helps demonstrate your expertise beyond just your CV.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare for those interviews! Research the team you’ll be working with and understand their projects. Be ready to discuss how your background in Python and digital humanities can contribute to their goals. Tailor your responses to show you’re the perfect fit for their innovative work.

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, keep an eye on our updates for new opportunities that match your skills. We’re here to help you land that exciting role!

We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant/Research Associate (Fixed Term)

Python
Digital Humanities
Knowledge Graphs
Ontologies
Graph Databases
Network Analysis
Natural Language Processing
Computer Vision
AI Architecture Development
Algorithmic Query Translation
Collaborative Development
Prototyping
Effective Communication

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your skills in Python and any relevant experience in digital humanities or AI. We want to see how your background aligns with the role, so don’t hold back!

Showcase Your Creativity: This position is all about innovation, so let your creative side shine through! Share examples of past projects where you’ve developed novel solutions or tackled complex problems, especially in areas like knowledge graphs or computer vision.

Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon unless it’s necessary. Make it easy for us to see why you’re a great fit for this role!

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, if you have any questions, feel free to reach out to our HR team for help.

How to prepare for a job interview at Cambridge University Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology

✨Know Your Stuff

Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of AI, knowledge graphs, and digital humanities. Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and technologies in these areas, as well as the specific project details mentioned in the job description. This will show your genuine interest and expertise during the interview.

✨Showcase Your Skills

Prepare to discuss your proficiency in Python and any relevant projects you've worked on. Bring examples of your work that demonstrate your ability to develop innovative solutions, especially in areas like computer vision or natural language processing. Concrete examples will help you stand out.

✨Ask Insightful Questions

Think of thoughtful questions to ask about the project and the team you'll be working with. Inquire about the collaboration with Stanford University and the DensityDesign Lab, or how they envision the development of the AI architecture. This shows you're engaged and eager to contribute.

✨Be Collaborative

Highlight your experience working in teams, especially in interdisciplinary settings. Since this role involves liaising with humanities researchers, emphasise your ability to translate complex technical concepts into understandable terms for non-technical stakeholders. Teamwork is key!

Research Assistant/Research Associate (Fixed Term)
Cambridge University Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology
Go Premium

Land your dream job quicker with Premium

You’re marked as a top applicant with our partner companies
Individual CV and cover letter feedback including tailoring to specific job roles
Be among the first applications for new jobs with our AI application
1:1 support and career advice from our career coaches
Go Premium

Money-back if you don't land a job in 6-months

>