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- Tasks: Join us as a Research Associate to explore Earth's Tipping Points through applied mathematics.
- Company: Be part of the University of Leicester, a century-old institution dedicated to impactful research and education.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, excellent pension, generous leave, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Contribute to vital climate research while collaborating with global academic partners in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: PhD in mathematics, physics, or earth sciences with strong skills in mathematical modelling and data analysis.
- Other info: Flexible working options available; secondments considered for existing staff.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We are looking for an ambitious and creative researcher for a position of Research Associate in the area of applied mathematics with a specific interest in Earth's Tipping Points. The post is funded by a project of the European Space Agency involving three UK partners.
The project delves into the investigation of climate variability, and especially tipping points for present climate, with a focus on the definition of accurate early warning indicators for detecting proximity to tipping behaviour in model and observational datasets.
You will be embedded in a world-class and rapidly growing research environment and will have the possibility to interact with multiple academic partners in the UK and overseas. In addition, you will support graduate students, deliver scientific presentations of the obtained results in international conferences, and contribute to the preparation of reports and scientific publications. Contributing to teaching activities is encouraged.
Alongside a PhD in mathematics, physics, earth sciences, or a related discipline, you will have a strong foundation in mathematical modelling and data analysis for complex systems. Advanced knowledge of climate and ecosystem dynamics, alongside a proven research track record, is essential. Ideally, you will have experience working with large datasets and interdisciplinary research environments.
As a collaborative team member, you will demonstrate excellent communication skills and a commitment to continuous professional development for yourself and others. Your ability to work independently and as part of a research team will be crucial to achieving project milestones.
For informal enquiries, please contact Valerio Lucarini at v.lucarini@leicester.ac.uk. As part of the University’s ongoing commitment to professional development, this role will also be considered on a seconded basis for existing staff members. Please ensure this is discussed with your line manager prior to applying.
The University of Leicester has been changing the world, and changing people’s lives, for 100 years. When you join us, you’ll become part of a community of Citizens of Change, which includes not only our staff and our current students but also thousands of Leicester graduates around the world.
As a diverse and forward-thinking employer, we embed the principles of equity, diversity and inclusion into everything we do. That includes not just our core missions of teaching and research, but also our support for staff, students and our local community through our values of Inspiring, Impactful and Inclusive.
We’re committed to the wellbeing of all our staff and to the sustainability of our environment, on our campus and beyond. We offer a competitive salary package, excellent pension scheme and a generous annual leave allowance, along with opportunities to develop your career in a supportive and collaborative environment.
Full-time or job share, fixed term contract for two years, or to 31 December 2027, whichever sooner.
Research Associate in Mathematics (Earth\'s Tipping Points) employer: University of Leicester
Contact Detail:
University of Leicester Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate in Mathematics (Earth\'s Tipping Points)
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the field of applied mathematics and climate science. Attend relevant conferences or seminars where you can meet researchers and academics who are involved in similar projects. This can help you gain insights into the latest developments and potentially lead to valuable connections.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the specific research being conducted by the European Space Agency and its partners. Understanding their current projects and methodologies will allow you to tailor your discussions and demonstrate your genuine interest during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with large datasets and interdisciplinary research environments. Be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others and tackled complex problems, as this will be crucial for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your communication skills by engaging in discussions about your research interests on platforms like LinkedIn or academic forums. This not only highlights your expertise but also demonstrates your ability to convey complex ideas clearly, which is essential for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate in Mathematics (Earth\'s Tipping Points)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your PhD in mathematics, physics, or earth sciences, along with your experience in mathematical modelling and data analysis. Emphasise any relevant research projects, especially those related to climate variability or large datasets.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the project’s focus on Earth’s Tipping Points. Discuss your collaborative skills and how you can contribute to both research and teaching activities, as well as your commitment to professional development.
Highlight Relevant Experience: If you have experience working in interdisciplinary research environments or with large datasets, make sure to detail this in your application. Provide specific examples of your contributions to previous projects and any scientific presentations or publications.
Showcase Communication Skills: Since excellent communication skills are essential for this role, include examples of how you've effectively communicated complex ideas in past research settings. Mention any experience you have in delivering presentations at conferences or mentoring graduate students.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Leicester
✨Showcase Your Research Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous research projects in detail, especially those related to climate variability and mathematical modelling. Highlight any specific contributions you made and the outcomes of your work.
✨Demonstrate Interdisciplinary Collaboration
Since the role involves working with multiple academic partners, share examples of how you've successfully collaborated across disciplines. Emphasise your communication skills and ability to work as part of a team.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions that assess your knowledge of climate and ecosystem dynamics, as well as your experience with large datasets. Brush up on relevant theories and methodologies to confidently answer these queries.
✨Express Your Commitment to Professional Development
Discuss your dedication to continuous learning and development, both for yourself and others. Mention any teaching experiences or mentoring roles you've had, as this aligns with the expectations of the position.
