Post Doctoral Research Associate in Combinatorics in Milton Keynes

Job Location: Milton Keynes, Remote/Hybrid

Weekly Working Hours: 37

Fixed Term Contract: End Date: 3 years from start date

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About the Role

Applications are invited for a Research Associate position in the School of Mathematics and Statistics at the Open University to work with Dr Katherine Staden on the UKRI-funded Future Leaders Fellowship project: Extremal Structure in Graphs. The project involves mathematical research in the area of combinatorics. The aim of the project is to explore the fundamental properties of graphs related to structures within them, including but not limited to the extremal problem of maximising/minimising the number of particular discrete substructures, and decomposing a discrete structure into given substructures.

Candidates must have completed or be close to completing a PhD in a subject relevant to the project, which includes (but is not restricted to) combinatorics or graph theory. The post is funded for 36 months and is available from 1 June 2026, with latest available starting date 1 December 2026. The successful candidate will be based in the UK. It is anticipated that a hybrid working pattern can be adopted for this role, where the successful candidate can work from home and the office. The role will be contractually aligned to Milton Keynes. It is expected that some attendance in the office will be required when necessary.

The candidate will join the Combinatorics and Algebra Group within the School of Mathematics and Statistics. This Group currently includes 6 academic researchers and 1 PhD student. The School provides a supportive and flexible working environment, where diversity is celebrated. The School is active in challenging injustice and promoting equitable treatment for those from marginalised or under-represented groups. It holds an Athena Swan Silver award for its work in gender equality.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with Katherine Staden’s research group on the study of topics in combinatorics.
• Attend project meetings and relevant research group meetings.
• Play an active part in the research community at the Open University.
• Publish research results in journals of international standing.
• Disseminate research results at seminars and conferences, nationally and internationally.
• Observe the principles of equality, diversity, and inclusion.
• Follow the University’s Research Ethics, Health and Safety and Equal Opportunities policies.
• Attend appropriate staff development events.
• Assist with public engagement activities.

About You

Essential

• PhD in mathematics (completed or close to completed) in a subject relevant to the project, such as (but not restricted to) combinatorics or graph theory.
• Experience of publishing in (or submitting to) journals of international standing.
• Strong oral and written communication skills, for example in giving research talks and participating in collaborative research meetings.
• Willingness to promote research within the School of Mathematics and Statistics.
• Ability to carry out the role in a way that is consistent with equality legislation and University policies.

Desirable

• Background knowledge in subjects relevant to the project (in addition to the PhD topic).
• Evidence of independent and collaborative research.
• Programming skills.

Support with your application

If you have any questions, or need support or adjustments relating to your application, the recruitment process, or the role, please contact us on 01908 541111 or email careers@open.ac.uk quoting the advert reference number.

What’s in it for you?

At The Open University, we offer a range of benefits to recognise and reward great work, alongside policies and flexible working that contribute towards a great work life balance.

Flexible working

We are open to discussions about flexible working. Whether it’s a job share, part time, compressed hours or another working arrangement. Please reach out to us to discuss what works best for you.

Next steps in the Recruitment process

If shortlisted, we anticipate interviews taking place mid / late March.

How to apply

To apply for this role please submit the following document(s):

• CV (this should be no more than 2 sides of A4)
• Supporting Statement of up to 1000 words (You should set out in your statement why you’re interested in this role and provide examples of where your skills and experience meet the essential and desirable criteria listed above).

You can view your progress and application communications when you are logged into our recruitment system. Please check your spam/junk folders if you do not receive associated email updates.

The Open University is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion which is reflected in our mission to be open to people, places, methods and ideas. We aim to foster a diverse and inclusive environment so that all in our OU community can reach their potential. We recognise that different people bring different perspectives, ideas, knowledge, and culture, and that this difference brings great strength.

We strive to recruit, retain and develop the careers of a diverse pool of students and staff, and particularly encourage applications from all underrepresented groups. We also aspire to make The Open University a supportive workplace for all through our policies, services and staff networks.

Closing date of 11:59 pm on Monday 2nd March 2026.