University of Cambridge  Jobs

Research Assistant/Research Associate (Fixed Term)

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University of Cambridge

Cambridge

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Research Assistant/Research Associate (Fixed Term)

Research Assistant/Research Associate

30 April 2026

Location

Cambridge

University of Cambridge

Type

Fixed Term (2 years)

Salary

£34,610 - £46,049 + 2.5% supplement

Required Qualifications

PhD in mathematics or theoretical computer science
Background in descriptive complexity
Theory of constraint satisfaction problems
Significant research publications

Research Areas

Symmetric Computation
Constraint Satisfaction
Graph Isomorphism
Descriptive Complexity
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Research Assistant/Research Associate (Fixed Term)

Research Assistant/Research Associate (Fixed Term)

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 2 years in the first instance.

The Department of Computer Science and Technology is an academic department that encompasses computer science along with many aspects of engineering, technology and mathematics. We have a worldwide reputation for academic research with consistent top research ratings. The Department has an open and collaborative culture, supporting revolutionary fundamental computer science research, strong cross-cutting collaborations internally and externally, and ideas which transform computing outside the University. Please follow the link at: https://www.cst.cam.ac.uk to find out more about our department.

We now seek a to carry out research in collaboration with Professor Anuj Dawar on the UKRI-funded (ERC advanced grant replacement) project on "Limits of Symmetric Computation". The project seeks to investigate lower bounds on symmetric computation in the context of algorithmic problems related to constraint satisfaction and graph isomorphism. It brings to bear significant new mathematical (algebraic and topological) methods to the study of symmetric computation.

Other key aspects of the role include writing and collaborating on research papers, presenting the research at national and international events and actively participating in the Logic and Algorithms research group.

Requirements: Candidate holds a PhD in a relevant specialist subject or equivalent experience (or be close to completing a PhD). The role holder must have a specific research background in areas of mathematics or theoretical computer science that are relevant to the project such as descriptive complexity or the theory of constraint satisfaction problems. A demonstrated ability to carry out research as evidenced by significant research publications in mathematics or theoretical computer science.

Appointment at Research Associate level is dependent on having a PhD. Those who have submitted but not yet received their PhD will be appointed at Research Assistant level, which will be amended to Research Associate once the PhD has been awarded.

In addition to the base salary stated above, the successful candidate for this post will receive an additional 2.5% supplement to their pay.

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

Questions about the post and the recruitment process may be addressed to the HR Team at hr-admin@cst.cam.ac.uk

Please quote reference NR49295 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

Apply online

Key information

Department/location

Department of Computer Science and Technology

Salary

£34,610 - £35,608
£37,694 - £46,049

Reference

NR49295

Category

Research

Date published

31 March 2026

Closing date

30 April 2026

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Frequently Asked Questions

🎓What qualifications are required for this Research Assistant/Research Associate position?

Candidates must hold a PhD in a relevant subject such as mathematics or theoretical computer science, or be close to completion. Essential experience includes a background in descriptive complexity or the theory of constraint satisfaction problems, with demonstrated research ability via significant publications. Appointment at Research Associate level requires a completed PhD; otherwise, start as Research Assistant. Learn more about excelling in such roles via our research assistant guide or browse research assistant jobs.

🔬What is the project focus for this University of Cambridge research role?

The position supports Professor Anuj Dawar's UKRI-funded project on Limits of Symmetric Computation, investigating lower bounds using algebraic and topological methods for algorithmic problems in constraint satisfaction and graph isomorphism. Duties include research, paper writing, presentations, and participation in the Logic and Algorithms group. Explore related opportunities at research jobs.

💰What is the salary and employment duration?

Salary ranges from £34,610 - £35,608 for Research Assistant to £37,694 - £46,049 for Research Associate, plus a 2.5% supplement. The role is fixed-term for 2 years initially, funded by UKRI. Check university salaries for more insights.

📝How do I apply for this Computer Science research position in Cambridge?

Click 'Apply' to register with the recruitment system, quote reference NR49295, and submit online via the application link. Contact hr-admin@cst.cam.ac.uk for queries. Prepare with our free resume template and academic CV guide. Closing date: 30 April 2026.

🌍Is visa sponsorship available for international applicants?

The posting states the University ensures employees are eligible to live and work in the UK, but no explicit visa sponsorship is mentioned. Verify eligibility directly with HR. See higher ed jobs for UK opportunities.

🏛️What department and research group will I join?

Join the Department of Computer Science and Technology at University of Cambridge, actively participating in the Logic and Algorithms research group. Visit department site for more. Related: faculty jobs.
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