Research Associate in Bayesian Optimisation & Experimental Design

Imperial College London - Department of Computing

Location: South Kensington Campus

About the role:

We are looking for a motivated Research Associate in Bayesian Optimisation & Experimental Design to work with Professor Ruth Misener and Dr Calvin Tsay in the Department of Computing.

The Department of Computing at Imperial College London is a leading department of Computer Science among UK Universities. The department has achieved top results in each of the research assessment exercises undertaken by the Higher Education Funding Council for England. There are over fifty academic staff members actively involved in research, creating a lively and stimulating atmosphere. The department is located in central London, next to Hyde Park and the museums of South Kensington.

What you would be doing:

You will conduct research at the intersection of computational optimisation, machine learning, and experimental design of new chemistry. You will develop Bayesian optimisation and other active learning approaches for experimental design with a focus on real-world systems. While most of the work will be computational or mathematical, you will also have the opportunity to visit BASF in Ludwigshafen, Germany for three months to try out the new algorithms in the lab.

What we are looking for:

• A PhD (or equivalent) in an area pertinent to the subject area, e.g., Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, Engineering Physics, or Chemical Engineering. Alternatively, equivalent research or industrial experience.
• You must have experience in algorithms development.
• You must have proven strong publication track-record in machine learning, computational optimisation, process systems engineering, or a closely-related discipline.
• You will be expected to contribute towards developing and maintaining open source software related to this project (https://github.com/cog-imperial).
• Ability to conduct a detailed review of recent literature.

As this post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974, a satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, at the appropriate level, will be required for the successful candidate.

What we can offer you:

• The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution and be part of our mission to continue science for humanity.
• Grow your career: gain access to Imperial’s sector-leading dedicated career support for researchers as well as opportunities for promotion and progression.
• Sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 41 days off a year and generous pension schemes).
• Be part of a diverse, inclusive and collaborative work culture with various staff networks and resources to support your personal and professional wellbeing.

Further Information:

Full-time, Fixed term contract to start Oct 2025 (or later) for up to 18 months. Informal enquiries related to the position should be directed to Professor Ruth Misener – r.misener@imperial.ac.uk. For queries regarding the application process contact Jamie Perrins: j.perrins@imperial.ac.uk.