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- Tasks: Develop optimisation algorithms for a digital tool in structural stone assemblies.
- Company: Join the prestigious University of Edinburgh and make a real impact.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and comprehensive staff benefits.
- Other info: Part-time role with opportunities for hybrid working and career growth.
- Why this job: Contribute to sustainable architecture and engineering while advancing your career.
- Qualifications: PhD or equivalent in structural/mechanical engineering; programming skills required.
The predicted salary is between 41064 - 48822 ÂŁ per year.
Grade UE07: ÂŁ41,064 - ÂŁ48,822 per annum pro-rata as part-time
Edinburgh College of Art / Edinburgh School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture (ESALA)
Part-time: 6.3 hours per week
Fixed-term: for 6 months (ideally from 1st June 2026 to 31st October 2026)
Join the University of Edinburgh and you’ll be making a difference to everything around you. Be part of something bigger — where you’ll do meaningful work, grow and progress, be rewarded and recognised, and benefit from our strong commitment to your wellbeing.
The Opportunity: This job is part of the project “Computational Layout Optimization of Structural Stone Assemblies”, which aims to develop a digital tool for automatically identifying optimal shapes and layouts of discrete stone blocks in structural assemblies (such as vaults, slabs, and shells). As a postdoctoral researcher you will be responsible for developing the optimization algorithms. The position offers a unique opportunity to contribute not only to academic dissemination but also to the promotion of a digital tool aimed at commercialization in industry. It can open pathways toward start-ups and spin-offs, through which you could help shape the future of sustainable architecture, engineering, and construction sectors.
You are expected to have a background in structural or mechanical engineering or a related field, with a PhD or equivalent research experience in a relevant area. The role requires knowledge of mathematical optimization, geometry (particularly as applied in architecture) and programming. Experience with Python and rigid block equilibrium analysis would be advantageous. A background or familiarity with architectural design is also desirable.
This is a part-time (0.18% FTE - 6.3 hours per week) and fixed-term (for 6 months) position and we are open to considering flexible working patterns. We are also open to considering requests for hybrid working (on a non-contractual basis) that combines a mix of remote and regular on-campus working.
How to apply
- CV
- Cover letter
People have always been at the heart of our work. As part of the University, you are a part of our community. We are looking for people with drive, determination, and a passion for what they do. We are a place where everyone is welcome and offer a range of policies and benefits designed to support you in building the right meaningful/personalised flexibility for you. A career with us has a range of other benefits that can be tailored to your lifestyle:
- Leading-edge research
- Cross University opportunities
- Flexible/hybrid where the roles allow
As a valued member of our team, you can expect:
- A competitive salary.
- An exciting, positive, creative, challenging and rewarding place to work.
- To be part of a diverse and vibrant international community.
- Comprehensive Staff Benefits, including generous annual leave entitlement, a defined benefits pension scheme, a wide range of staff discounts, family-friendly initiatives, and flexible work options.
Championing equality, diversity, and inclusion
The University of Edinburgh holds a Silver Athena SWAN award in recognition of our commitment to advance gender equality in higher education. We are members of the Race Equality Charter, and we are also Stonewall Scotland Diversity Champions, actively promoting LGBT equality. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates and particularly encourage female applications from female (women in STEM) candidates, as we acknowledge they are currently underrepresented in our research area.
Prior to any employment commencing with the University, you will be required to evidence your right to work in the UK. Further information is available on our right to work webpages. On this occasion the University will not consider applicants requiring sponsorship for this role. International workers will therefore only be able to take up this role if they can demonstrate an alternative right to work in the UK.
Key dates to note
The closing date for applications is 28 May 2026. Unless stated otherwise the closing time for applications is 11:59pm UK time. If you are applying outside the UK the closing time on our adverts automatically adjusts to your browser's local time zone. Interviews will be held in June 2026.
Postdoctoral Researcher employer: University of Edinburgh
Contact Detail:
University of Edinburgh Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Researcher
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in academia and industry. Attend relevant conferences or workshops where you can meet potential collaborators or employers. Remember, it’s all about who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the University of Edinburgh and the specific project you'll be working on. Be ready to discuss how your skills in mathematical optimisation and programming can contribute to the team.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion! When you get the chance to speak with interviewers, let your enthusiasm for sustainable architecture and engineering shine through. They want to see that you’re not just qualified, but genuinely excited about the work.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and the amazing benefits we offer at the University of Edinburgh.
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Researcher
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling CV: Your CV is your first impression, so make it count! Highlight your relevant experience in structural or mechanical engineering, and don’t forget to showcase any programming skills, especially with Python. Tailor it to reflect the key requirements of the role.
Write a Standout Cover Letter: This is your chance to show us your passion for the project! Explain why you’re excited about developing optimization algorithms and how your background aligns with our goals. Keep it concise but impactful — we want to feel your enthusiasm!
Showcase Your Unique Skills: If you have experience with rigid block equilibrium analysis or architectural design, make sure to mention it! We love seeing candidates who bring something extra to the table, so don’t hold back on your unique qualifications.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands, and we can’t wait to see what you bring to the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Edinburgh
✨Know Your Algorithms
Make sure you brush up on your optimisation algorithms before the interview. Be ready to discuss how you've applied mathematical optimisation in your previous work, especially in relation to structural or mechanical engineering.
✨Showcase Your Programming Skills
Since experience with Python is advantageous, prepare to demonstrate your coding skills. You might be asked to solve a problem on the spot, so practice coding challenges related to geometry and structural analysis.
✨Connect with the Project's Goals
Familiarise yourself with the project on 'Computational Layout Optimization of Structural Stone Assemblies'. Be prepared to discuss how your background aligns with the project's aims and how you can contribute to its success.
✨Emphasise Flexibility and Collaboration
As this role offers flexible working patterns, express your openness to hybrid working arrangements. Highlight any past experiences where you've successfully collaborated in diverse teams, showcasing your adaptability and commitment to teamwork.