At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct innovative research and collaborate with industry partners to drive real-world applications.
- Company: Join Heriot-Watt University, a top UK institution known for its cutting-edge research and diverse community.
- Benefits: Enjoy 33 days of annual leave, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Flexible working patterns available, fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make an impact in mathematical innovation while working in a supportive and inclusive environment.
- Qualifications: PhD in applied mathematics or data science, with strong communication and project management skills.
The predicted salary is between 37694 - 47389 £ per year.
Role: Research Associate in Mathematical and Computer Science
Grade and Salary: Grade 7 (£37,694 - £47,389)
FTE and working pattern: Full-time (35 hours per week), Fixed Term for 1 year. We have 2 opportunities available.
Holiday Entitlement: 33 days annual leave plus 9 buildings closed days (and Christmas Eve when it falls on a weekday)
Purpose of the role
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. The University has five campuses: three in the UK (Edinburgh, Scottish Borders and Orkney), one in Dubai and one in Malaysia. The University offers a range of degree programmes in science, engineering, design, business and finance. Heriot-Watt is also Scotland's most international university, with the largest international student cohort.
Successful candidates will be staff members within the School of Mathematical and Computer Sciences and will be working as an Innovation Expert for the Mathematics-Driven Innovation Centre (M-DICE). We welcome applications from candidates across a broad range of mathematical/computational areas, particularly including applicants with background in applied statistics or statistical data science.
An M-DICE Innovation Expert acts as a bridge between academic research and industrial application, driving knowledge exchange, project management, and commercialisation of new ideas. We have funding for two 12-month positions in the first instance, with the possibility of extension.
Key Duties & Responsibilities
- Conduct individual and/or collaborative research project(s), contributing to the design, execution, and management of the project(s), including meeting project milestones and participating in regular discussions with collaborative partners and their line manager.
- Liaise with academics, industrial partners, in collaboration with the Mathematics-Driven Innovation Centre (M-DICE) to identify and develop interdisciplinary research projects.
- Participate in meetings of the unit and prepare and deliver presentations/seminars internal and external.
- Assist with the supervision and mentoring of postgraduate and undergraduate students working on related research projects.
- Publish the results of research in reports and high-quality peer-reviewed academic journals.
- Disseminate knowledge of research advances in computational science through activities such as conference presentations, workshops, and national or international research visits.
- Any other duties within M-DICE, commensurate with the grade of the post.
Essential Criteria
Qualifications
- PhD in applied/computational mathematics or statistics/data science or related fields (or close to successful completion)
Knowledge, Skills & Experience
- Evidence of a developing publication record
- Experience or desire to work with those from other disciplines
- Evidence of excellent administrative and project management skills
- Evidence of self-motivation and the ability to work independently
- Evidence of excellent oral and written communication skills
- Excellent time management skills including the ability to prioritise workload
Desirable Criteria
Knowledge, Skills & Experience
- Evidence of working in a knowledge-exchange role in the mathematical sciences
- Evidence of success in attracting research grants/external funding and delivering on externally funded research projects
- Evidence or knowledge to support international activities
- Evidence of a basic knowledge of the Higher Education context and regulatory framework
How to Apply
Applications can be submitted up to 23:55 (UK time) on Tuesday 21st of July 2026. Please submit your CV and covering letter via the Heriot-Watt online recruitment.
We welcome and will consider flexible working patterns, e.g., part-time working and job share options.
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 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.
For more information, please see our website: Equality and Diversity.
Use our total rewards calculator to see the value of benefits provided by Heriot-Watt University: Total Rewards Calculator.
About Heriot-Watt University
At Heriot-Watt we are passionate about our values and look to them to connect our people globally and to help us collaborate and celebrate our success through working together. Our research programmes can deliver real world impact which is achieved through the diversity of our international community and the recognition of creative talent that connects our global team.
Our flourishing community will give you the freedom to challenge and to bring your enterprising mind and to help our partners with solutions that can be applied now and in the future. Join us and Heriot Watt will provide you with a platform to thrive and work in a way that also helps you live your life in balance with well-being and inclusiveness at the heart of our global community.
Research Associate - Innovation Expert for the Mathematics-Driven Innovation Centre (M-DICE) employer: Heriot-Watt University
Heriot-Watt University in Orkney is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant academic environment that fosters innovation and collaboration in the field of renewable energy. With a strong commitment to employee development, you will have access to numerous growth opportunities while contributing to impactful research and curriculum development in marine energy technologies. The unique location in Orkney, known for its pioneering work in offshore energy, provides a stimulating backdrop for meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate - Innovation Expert for the Mathematics-Driven Innovation Centre (M-DICE)
✨Get Involved in Research Communities
Dive headfirst into the scientific research world by joining relevant communities and forums. Engage in discussions, share your insights, and even attend conferences or seminars in your field. This not only boosts your visibility but can also lead to potential job opportunities—don't forget to connect with like-minded folks!
✨Show Off Your Research Projects
Have you worked on any cool research projects? Make it easy for potential employers to see your work by creating a portfolio or a personal website. This way, when you apply for roles like the one at Heriot-Watt University, you can point them to your projects and publications, showcasing your expertise directly.
✨Utilise Professional Networks
Networking is key in scientific research. Join professional bodies or organisations related to your field. They often have job boards and resources tailored for job seekers. Make connections with professionals who may know about openings or can give you tips on landing a full-time position.
✨Keep Your Eyes on Openings & Apply Directly
Don’t just rely on job boards! Keep an eye on the careers section of the websites of companies like Heriot-Watt University. Apply directly through their website because sometimes they post jobs there before anywhere else. Plus, it shows your proactive approach!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate - Innovation Expert for the Mathematics-Driven Innovation Centre (M-DICE)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Research Experience:When applying for a full-time role in scientific research, make sure to emphasise your research experience prominently in your CV. Share specific projects you’ve worked on, the methodologies you used, and any significant findings. If you’ve published papers or presented at conferences, definitely include that too – it shows you’re on it in the academic world!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Research Area:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the specific area of research at Heriot-Watt University. Mention relevant experiences that align with the organisation’s goals or projects. This shows that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the position – plus, it helps us see how you’d fit into the team dynamics.
Showcase Your Data Analysis Skills:In scientific research, data analysis skills are a big deal! Make sure to detail any relevant analytical tools or software you’re familiar with, like R, Python, or statistical packages. Employers are keen to know you can handle the data-heavy elements of the role, so add specific examples where you’ve used these skills effectively.
Discuss Your Future Research Goals:In your motivation section, it’s a great idea to talk about your future research goals and how they align with the work being done at Heriot-Watt University. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but rather a chance to contribute meaningfully to the field. We love to see applicants who are forward-thinking and enthusiastic about their research journey!
How to prepare for a job interview at Heriot-Watt University
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
In scientific research, it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to design and conduct experiments. Come armed with examples of past projects where you've developed hypotheses, collected data, and analysed results. Be ready to discuss any specific methodologies or tools you’ve used, like PCR techniques or statistical software.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions specific to your field. Make sure you're up to speed with recent advancements in scientific research related to the role at Heriot-Watt University. Brush up on concepts relevant to their projects and be prepared to discuss how you would approach a specific research problem or challenge they might face.
✨Know Your Publications
If you've authored or co-authored any papers, be prepared to discuss them! Highlighting your contributions to published research can really set you apart. It shows not only your expertise but also your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly, which is key in scientific research roles.
✨Exhibit Your Team Spirit
In full-time roles, collaboration is often at the heart of scientific research. Prepare examples that show how you've successfully worked in teams, dealt with conflicts, or contributed to group projects. We want to know how you can work effectively with the team at Heriot-Watt University to drive research projects forward.
