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- Tasks: Lead innovative research in actuarial data science and teach at undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
- Company: Join Heriot-Watt University, a globally renowned institution in mathematical sciences.
- Benefits: Enjoy 33 days annual leave, remote work options, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in actuarial science while collaborating with top researchers worldwide.
- Qualifications: PhD in actuarial science or related field, with a strong research track record.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to equality and excellence in education.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
The Department of Actuarial Mathematics and Statistics at Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, is seeking to enhance and expand its strengths in research and teaching in actuarial science and statistics by appointing an Assistant Professor in Actuarial Data Science, or a related actuarial statistics area. This is an open-ended position.
Applicants are invited from all areas of actuarial data science. Those working in statistical learning, actuarial statistics or relevant areas are particularly welcome to apply. Candidates who would like to work with the University’s multi-disciplinary Global Research Institutes in the areas of either climate change and sustainability, or healthcare are also welcomed.
As a successful candidate, you will lead, carry out and publish internationally excellent research in your field. You will have a strong track record of research in actuarial data science which includes fields such as statistical learning, actuarial statistics, computational statistics and related statistical methodology. You will either be established or have the potential to establish yourself as an international research leader, with strong postdoctoral research experience and the ambition to build a world-class academic group. You will have the relevant experience to engage and innovate in our specialised actuarial, statistical, data science and financial teaching programmes.
The School strongly encourages and supports the generation of industry impact from research, and we welcome candidates with experience of statistical work with industrial partners or working with the actuarial/insurance/financial industry.
The Department of Actuarial Mathematics and Statistics has a warm, supportive environment with staff from all over the world. The Department is internationally renowned in actuarial science, statistics and statistical data science, applied probability and financial risk, through its world-leading research activities. It offers several high-quality degree programmes in actuarial science and actuarial management, all of which are accredited by the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries.
Key Duties and Responsibilities:
- Lead, carry out and publish internationally excellent research in actuarial data science, actuarial statistics or a related field;
- Apply for research funding through either the submission of high-quality grant proposals or funding from industry, with the goal of building a research group;
- Undertake knowledge exchange activities to promote and disseminate your research;
- Carry out such administrative and recruitment activities as may be required to achieve these aims;
- Develop and deliver innovative teaching in statistics, actuarial science and related fields at undergraduate and postgraduate level;
- Be responsible to the Head of Department for performing the activities listed above in a way that will maintain and enhance the School’s reputation for excellence.
The successful candidate will be based at our Edinburgh campus in the UK.
Education, Qualifications and Experience:
- PhD in actuarial science, statistics, or a related field.
- Track-record of high-quality research in the areas of actuarial data science with internationally excellent publications.
- Demonstrable teaching experience related to courses in the Department, as well as skills to supervise undergraduate and postgraduate dissertations.
- Excellent interpersonal and teamwork skills.
- Potential, ambition and plans to obtain research funding.
- Ability to supervise successfully PhD students.
How to Apply:
Interested applicants must submit via the Heriot-Watt University on-line recruitment system: (1) a cover letter describing their interest and suitability for the post; (2) a full CV, including a list of publications; (3) an outline of their research plans for the next few years; and (4) a one-page summary of their teaching philosophy or approach to teaching. Applications can be submitted until midnight on Monday 9th February 2026.
Assistant Professor in Actuarial Data Science (T&R) employer: Heriot-Watt University
Contact Detail:
Heriot-Watt University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Professor in Actuarial Data Science (T&R)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend conferences, workshops, and seminars related to actuarial data science. It's a great way to meet potential collaborators and get your name out there in the academic community.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your research! Create a personal website or a professional profile on platforms like ResearchGate. This way, you can showcase your publications and research interests, making it easier for hiring committees to see your work.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your teaching philosophy and research plans. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to the department's goals, especially in areas like climate change and healthcare.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their applications.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Professor in Actuarial Data Science (T&R)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to express your enthusiasm for the role and highlight how your experience aligns with the position. We want to see your personality come through, so don’t be afraid to let us know why you’re passionate about actuarial data science.
Showcase Your Research Plans: When outlining your research plans, be specific about your goals and how they fit within our department's vision. We’re looking for candidates who can contribute to our multi-disciplinary efforts, so make sure to mention any relevant collaborations or innovative ideas you have in mind.
Highlight Your Teaching Philosophy: In your teaching philosophy summary, share your approach to engaging students and fostering a positive learning environment. We value innovative teaching methods, so feel free to include examples of how you've successfully taught complex topics in the past.
Submit Through Our Website: Remember to apply through the Heriot-Watt University online recruitment system! It’s the easiest way for us to review your application. Make sure all your documents are polished and ready to go before hitting that submit button!
How to prepare for a job interview at Heriot-Watt University
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
Make sure you can discuss your research in actuarial data science confidently. Be prepared to explain your past projects, their impact, and how they align with the department's goals. This shows your passion and expertise.
✨Engage with Teaching Philosophy
Since teaching is a key part of this role, think about your approach to education. Prepare to share specific examples of how you've engaged students in the past and how you plan to innovate in your teaching methods.
✨Connect with Industry Experience
Highlight any collaborations or projects you've had with industry partners. Discuss how this experience can benefit the department and contribute to its goal of generating industry impact from research.
✨Show Your Leadership Potential
Be ready to talk about your vision for building a research group and how you plan to secure funding. Demonstrating your ambition and leadership skills will resonate well with the interviewers.
