Post Doctoral Research Associate in Combinatorics

The Open University; Milton Keynes; Hybrid; GBP 30,000 - GBP 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A UK higher education institution is seeking a Post Doctoral Research Associate in Combinatorics. The role involves conducting mathematical research and collaborating with a research group on topics in combinatorics. Candidates must have a PhD in mathematics or a related field, along with strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively. The position allows for hybrid working arrangements, with a flexible work-life balance offered.

Benefits

Flexible working arrangements

Comprehensive benefits package

Qualifications

• PhD completed or near completion in a relevant subject like combinatorics or graph theory.
• Experience of publishing in international journals.
• Ability to collaborate in a research environment.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate on combinatorial research topics.
• Publish research results in reputable journals.
• Participate in project and research community meetings.

Skills

Publishing in journals

Strong communication skills

Collaborative research

Research in mathematics

Education

PhD in mathematics

Job description

Post Doctoral Research Associate in Combinatorics

Job Location: Milton Keynes, Remote/Hybrid

Department: School of Mathematics & Statistics

Closing Date: 2 March 2026

Weekly Working Hours: 37

Contract Type: Fixed Term Contract

Fixed Term Contract: End Date: 3 years from start date

Welsh Language: Not Applicable

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About the Role

Applications are invited for a Research Associate position in the School of Mathematics and Statistics at the Open University to work with Dr Katherine Staden on Fellowship project: Extremal Structure in Graphs.

The project involves mathematical research in the area of combinatorics. The aim of the project is to explore the fundamental properties of graphs related to structures within them, including but not limited to the extremal problem of maximising/minimising the number of particular discrete substructures, and decomposing a discrete structure into given substructures.

Candidates must have completed or be close to completing a PhD in a subject relevant to the project, which includes (but is not restricted to) combinatorics or graph theory.

The post is funded for 36 months and is available from 1 June 2026, with latest available starting date 1 December 2026. The successful candidate will be based in the UK. It is anticipated that a hybrid working pattern can be adopted for this role, where the successful candidate can work from home and the office. The role will be contractually aligned to Milton Keynes. It is expected that some attendance in the office will be required when necessary.

The School provides a supportive and flexible working environment, where diversity is celebrated. The School is active in challenging injustice and promoting equitable treatment for those from marginalised or under-represented groups. It holds an Athena Swan Silver award for its work in gender equality.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with Katherine Staden’s research group on the study of topics in combinatorics.
• Attend project meetings and relevant research group meetings.
• Play an active part in the research community at the Open University.
• Publish research results in journals of international standing.
• Disseminate research results at seminars and conferences, nationally and internationally.
• Observe the principles of equality, diversity, and inclusion.
• Follow the University’s Research Ethics, Health and Safety and Equal Opportunities policies.
• Assist with public engagement activities.

About You

• PhD in mathematics (completed or close to completed) in a subject relevant to the project, such as (but not restricted to) combinatorics or graph theory.
• Experience of publishing in (or submitting to) journals of international standing.
• Strong oral and written communication skills, for example in giving research talks and participating in collaborative research meetings.
• Willingness to promote research within the School of Mathematics and Statistics.
• Ability to carry out the role in a way that is consistent with equality legislation and University policies.
• Background knowledge in subjects relevant to the project (in addition to the PhD topic).
• Evidence of independent and collaborative research.

Support with your application

If you have any questions, or need support or adjustments relating to your application, the recruitment process, or the role, please contact us on 01908 541111 or email [e-mail] quoting the advert reference number.

What's in it for you?

At The Open University, we offer a range of benefits to recognise and reward great work, alongside policies and flexible working that contribute towards a great work life balance. Get all the details of what benefits we offer by visiting our Staff Benefits page (clicking this link will open a new window).

We are open to discussions about flexible working. Whether it’s a job share, part time, compressed hours or another working arrangement. Please reach out to us to discuss what works best for you.

Next steps in the Recruitment process

If shortlisted, we anticipate interviews taking place mid / late March.

How to apply

To apply for this role please submit the following document(s):

• CV (this should be no more than 2 sides of A4)
• Supporting Statement of up to 1000 words (You should set out in your statement why you’re interested in this role and provide examples of where your skills and experience meet the essential and desirable criteria listed above).

You can view your progress and application communications when you are logged into our recruitment system. Please check your spam/junk folders if you do not receive associated email updates.

If you have any queries or questions about the recruitment process, or regarding your application,please contact:[e-mail] .