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- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to analyse scientific papers using cutting-edge NLP and LLM techniques.
- Company: Heriot-Watt University, a leader in innovative research and education.
- Benefits: 33 days annual leave, remote work options, and a supportive community.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in metascience while developing your skills in a collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: PhD or equivalent experience in any discipline, with knowledge of NLP and LLMs.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and involvement in exciting research projects.
The predicted salary is between 31700 - 38400 £ per year.
Grade: Grade 7 (£37,694 - £46,049) - Contract Type: Full Time, Fixed Term (6 Months)
Rewards and Benefits: 33 days annual leave, plus 9 buildings closed days (and Christmas Eve when it falls on a weekday) for all full time staff.
Purpose of the Role: We seek an ambitious and creative postdoctoral research associate (PDRA), starting in March 2026 or earliest thereafter.
Detailed Description: The PDRA will be working within the auspices of the WIDERA consortium project iRISE (Improving Reproducibility In Science) under the guidance of Dr Daniele Fanelli, in a nascent Metascience Lab located in the School of Social Sciences at Heriot-Watt University. The primary objective of the post is to apply Large Language Models (LLM) and Natural Language Processing (NLP) techniques to analysing the texts of scientific papers, in order to extract information that helps forecast their reproducibility. The post is for a period of 6 months but should the PDRA wish to extend their position, they will be encouraged to lead or collaborate on new grant applications.
Main Duties and Responsibilities:
- Develop and test methods to measure the complexity of methods and other properties of studies using LLM and NLP.
- Contribute to the development of novel, transferable methodologies, and contribute to developing a statistical package that implements them.
- Help with data collection and curation.
- Help with general management of the project and research group (e.g. web page and social media communication).
- Take part in dissemination activities, such as conferences and workshops.
Education, Qualifications and Experience:
Essential Criteria: You should have a PhD and/or equivalent research experience in a suitable subject (any disciplinary background is accepted). Knowledge and practical understanding of NLP, LLMs and good quantitative/statistical skills.
Desirable Criteria: Experience and/or a demonstrable interest in any of: metascience, scientometrics, knowledge representation.
How to Apply: Please submit by midnight on the 28th February, via the Heriot-Watt online recruitment system: 1) Cover letter describing your suitability for the post and a short statement about research interests 2) Full CV including list of publications. Review of applications will start on the week commencing 2nd March. For any enquiries about this position please contact Dr Daniele Fanelli, d.fanelli(at)hw.ac.uk.
Heriot-Watt University is committed to securing equality of opportunity in employment and to the creation of an environment in which individuals are selected, trained, promoted, appraised and otherwise treated on the sole basis of their relevant merits and abilities. Equality and diversity are all about maximising potential and creating a culture of inclusion for all. Heriot-Watt University values diversity across our University community and welcomes applications from all sectors of society, particularly from underrepresented groups.
About Heriot-Watt: Heriot-Watt University has established a reputation for world-class teaching and leading-edge, relevant research, which has made it one of the top UK universities for innovation, business and industry. Heriot-Watt University has five campuses: three in the UK (Edinburgh, Scottish Borders and Orkney), one in Dubai and one in Malaysia. The University offers a highly distinctive range of degree programmes in the specialist areas of science, engineering, design, business and languages. Heriot-Watt University is also Scotland's most international university, boasting the largest international student cohort.
Research Associate in Edinburgh employer: Heriot-Watt University Malaysia
Contact Detail:
Heriot-Watt University Malaysia Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate in Edinburgh
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the field of metascience and NLP. Attend relevant conferences or workshops, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself to potential collaborators or mentors.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your work with LLMs and NLP techniques. This could be anything from research papers to projects you've worked on. It’s a great way to demonstrate your expertise beyond just a CV.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on common questions related to reproducibility in science and your technical skills. Practice explaining complex concepts in simple terms – it shows you really understand your stuff!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate in Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to highlight your relevant experience and how it aligns with the role. We want to see your passion for research and your unique perspective on metascience.
Tailor Your CV: Don’t just send a generic CV! Tailor it to showcase your skills in NLP and LLMs, as well as any relevant projects you've worked on. We love seeing how your background fits into our vision at Heriot-Watt.
Showcase Your Research Interests: In your application, include a short statement about your research interests. This helps us understand what drives you and how you can contribute to our team. Be specific and let your enthusiasm shine through!
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to submit your application via the Heriot-Watt online recruitment system before the deadline. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at Heriot-Watt University Malaysia
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of NLP and LLMs before the interview. Be ready to discuss how you've applied these techniques in your previous work or studies, as this will show your practical understanding and enthusiasm for the role.
✨Show Your Research Passion
Prepare to talk about your research interests and how they align with the iRISE project. Highlight any relevant experience in metascience or scientometrics, and be ready to share ideas on how you could contribute to the project’s goals.
✨Engage with the Team
Familiarise yourself with Dr Daniele Fanelli's work and the broader team at Heriot-Watt University. Mention specific projects or publications that resonate with you during the interview to demonstrate your genuine interest in joining their community.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare a few insightful questions about the project, the team dynamics, or future opportunities for collaboration. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the environment is the right fit for you.