MSCA Doctoral Graduate Research Assistant [DC4] in Exeter

MSCA Doctoral Graduate Research Assistant [DC4] in Exeter

Exeter Full-Time 33951 - 33951 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
University of Exeter Ladies Hockey Club

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Join a PhD project on blockchain for the Internet-of-Energy, tackling data security challenges.
  • Company: Exciting opportunity at Exeter University within the SAILING Doctoral Network.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, mobility allowance, and access to state-of-the-art facilities.
  • Other info: Supportive environment with opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration and professional growth.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in cutting-edge research while collaborating internationally.
  • Qualifications: Degree in relevant fields like Computer Science or Cybersecurity; strong analytical skills required.

The predicted salary is between 33951 - 33951 £ per year.

This new full-time post is available to start between 1 August 2026 and 1 December 2026 on a fixed term basis for 36 months, based at our Streatham campus. The post must start by 1 December 2026.

Contract type: Fixed-term contract (36 months).

Location: Exeter.

Salary: Starting from £33,951 on Grade E, depending on knowledge, skills and experience.

Key Responsibilities and Project Objectives

The role is part of the SAILING Doctoral Network, an EU-funded Marie Skłodowska-Curie’s Actions (MSCA) initiative. You will work on a PhD project focused on blockchain-secured data sharing in the Internet-of-Energy (IoE), aiming to minimise malicious data tampering and destruction. The key objectives are:

  • Develop a holistic design of the blockchain architecture for IoE.
  • Create a scalable blockchain system for IoE data sharing.
  • Design an efficient and fair consensus mechanism for IoE.

The post will include two separate secondments, each about 3 months, to other EU and Associated Country partners of the SAILING Doctoral Network for training and collaboration purposes.

Qualifications and Experience

Applicants should hold a first-degree level qualification (or equivalent experience) in a relevant discipline such as Computer Science, Communication Engineering, Electrical/Power Engineering, Energy Systems, Applied Mathematics, Data Science, Cybersecurity, or Artificial Intelligence, and demonstrate sufficient knowledge of research methods and techniques to work within established research programmes.

Strong quantitative and analytical skills, and an ability to learn new methods quickly. Interest in Computer Science/Internet-of-Energy/Cybersecurity/Artificial Intelligence and their data, modelling, and operational challenges. Experience developing and evaluating algorithmic solutions (e.g., machine learning, optimisation, statistical modelling, distributed systems), depending on project direction. Ability to implement research prototypes and run reproducible experiments using programming and tooling. Experience working with datasets, including data preparation, experimental design, benchmarking, and reporting of results. Capacity to collaborate effectively with supervisors and partners, including contributing to network-wide training, secondments, and dissemination.

Benefits and Support

Full employment contract with a competitive salary for three years. Supplementary allowance of approximately £3,300 per annum, attracting both NI and pension. Mobility allowance (~£5,750 per year) and family allowance (~£4,000 per year) adjusted for the cost of living in the host country (UK). Access to state-of-the-art facilities, laboratories and expert supervision. International secondments and training events, networking with 11 fellow PhD students from the SAILING MSCA Doctoral Network. Additional benefits include a supportive academic environment, opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration, and a range of staff benefits including sector-leading maternity, adoption, shared parental leave, and a fertility treatment policy.

Equal Opportunity

We strongly encourage applications from under-represented groups. We are committed to diversity, equality and inclusion, and consider applications from all suitable candidates regardless of race, gender, disability, sexual orientation, religion, or age.

Contact and Further Information

For further information, please visit the SAILING Doctoral Network website or contact Professor Geyong Min (e-mail: g.min@exeter.ac.uk). If you need support with your application or require reasonable adjustments, please contact the HR help desk at hrhelpdesk@exeter.ac.uk.

MSCA Doctoral Graduate Research Assistant [DC4] in Exeter employer: University of Exeter Ladies Hockey Club

As a leading academic institution, we offer a dynamic and supportive work environment at our Streatham campus in Exeter, where you will engage in cutting-edge research as part of the SAILING Doctoral Network. Our commitment to employee growth is reflected in our comprehensive training opportunities, international secondments, and a strong focus on diversity and inclusion, ensuring that all voices are heard and valued. With competitive salaries, generous allowances, and access to state-of-the-art facilities, we provide an excellent platform for your professional development in the fields of Computer Science, Cybersecurity, and Artificial Intelligence.

University of Exeter Ladies Hockey Club

Contact Details:

University of Exeter Ladies Hockey Club Recruitment Team

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We think you need these skills to ace MSCA Doctoral Graduate Research Assistant [DC4] in Exeter

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