Research Assistant

Aston University

Location:Birmingham, Hybrid Salary:£38,784 to £46,049 per annum (pro-rata). Grade 08 Hours:Part Time Contract Type:Fixed-Term/Contract Placed On:14th April 2026 Closes:27th April 2026 Job Ref:0563-26 Location:Aston University Main Campus

Contract Type:Fixed Term (31/12/2028)

Basis:Part Time

Aston University is seeking a Research Associate to join the Centre for Cybersecurity, Privacy and Trust (CyberHub) and contribute to innovative research in Internet of Things (IoT), Edge AI and Tiny Machine Learning (TinyML).

The role will focus on the design and development of battery‑less, ultra‑low‑power IoT systems capable of executing secure TinyML‑based visual perception algorithms directly at the edge. The postholder will investigate novel hardware–software co‑design approaches enabling AI‑driven video processing on energy‑harvesting devices under extreme power constraints.

This project aims to develop prototype IoT devices operating below 100mW, supporting applications in security surveillance, smart infrastructure, supply‑chain monitoring and autonomous sensing systems. The research aligns with the UK’s national £12M EPSRC Edge AI Hub initiative, in which Aston University is a key partner.

You will join a dynamic and growing research environment within the School of Computer Science and Digital Technologies, working closely with leading academic and industry partners. The role will include contributing to research outputs, supporting postgraduate research activity, and participating in project dissemination and collaboration.

This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to world‑leading research in sustainable AI and next‑generation intelligent IoT systems.

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.
• The role is offered as 'dynamic working', which means working both on campus and from home dependent on the activity.
• Excellent training and development opportunities.
• A generous annual leave scheme with 30 days bookable leave and a further 13 days of 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 does not meet the eligibility criteria for new applicants to the Skilled Worker visa route.

See here for information about Skilled Worker eligibility criteria: <https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa>

Closing Date:23.59 hours BST on Monday 27 April 2026

Interview Date:Monday 04 May 2026