Postdoctoral Research Associate

Aston University - School of Engineering & Innovation

Location: Aston University Main Campus

Contract Type: Fixed Term (36 months)

Aston University is seeking a motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate to contribute to innovative research at the intersection of engineering, data science and workforce development. This role offers an exciting opportunity to support and inform the regional and national engineering skills strategy through data-driven insights, partnership working and real-world impact.

You will work on the development of an open-access engineering labour market intelligence platform, bringing together employer demand data with educational and curriculum provision. Using techniques such as natural language processing, machine learning and skills taxonomies, you will help generate meaningful insights into current and future engineering skills needs. Your work will support industry, policymakers, educators and professional bodies in shaping strategic investment in skills and curriculum design.

Working closely with academic colleagues and external partners, you will contribute to the production of high-quality analytical outputs, including reports, forecasts and policy-relevant insights. You will also share findings through peer-reviewed publications, workshops, conferences and policy briefings, helping to inform the national conversation on engineering skills and workforce development. The role aligns closely with national initiatives, offering opportunities to engage with and respond to emerging developments.

We are looking for a researcher with a PhD (or near completion) in engineering, data science, computational social science or a related discipline, with experience in data analytics, NLP or machine learning. You will bring strong analytical and programming skills, the ability to manage your work effectively, and the confidence to work constructively with a wide range of stakeholders across academia, industry and policy. Experience with skills taxonomies, labour-market data, or online platforms is highly desirable.

In return, Aston University offers a collaborative and inclusive research environment, opportunities for professional development, and the chance to contribute to research with genuine societal impact.

What we offer:

• Aston University is a dynamic and vibrant campus located within Birmingham city centre, which has excellent transport links via bus or train.
• Excellent training and development opportunities.
• A generous annual leave scheme with 30 days bookable leave and a further 13 days bank holiday and University Closure days.
• Everyday discounts to a number of activities and retailers.
• Great family friendly policies.
• On site gym and pool with discounted staff membership available
• Further information on our Benefits and Rewards can be found here.

This role may meet the requirements for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship.

If you require sponsorship, Aston University will assess your eligibility if you are shortlisted for the role.

Please note we are unable to confirm individual eligibility before shortlisting.

See here for more information on Skilled Worker visa eligibility: https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa

Closing Date: 23.59 hours GMT on Monday 02 March 2026

Interview Date: Friday 13 March 2026