Postdoctoral Research Associate

Durham; North East; On-site; GBP 60,000 - GBP 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading university in the UK seeks a Postdoctoral Research Associate for a fixed-term role in Quantum Networking. The successful candidate will focus on designing algorithms for resource allocation in quantum networks. Applicants must have a PhD or be near completion in a relevant field, with experience in academic research and strong programming skills. The position offers competitive salary and benefits, including opportunities for professional development. Applications include a CV, cover letter, and research aspirations statement.

Benefits

30 days annual leave

Pension scheme

Parking

Cycle-to-work scheme

Car lease options

Comprehensive health and wellbeing support

Qualifications

• Strong background in mathematical modelling and performance evaluation of communication networks.
• Experience in high‑quality academic research and peer‑reviewed publications.
• Excellent programming skills and ability to work independently on complex projects.

Responsibilities

• Present research material to team and external audiences at papers and conferences.
• Conduct individual and collaborative research projects and propose innovative solutions.
• Provide training in research techniques to peers, visitors, and students.

Skills

Teamwork and collaborative research participation

Self‑direction and initiative

Exceptional interpersonal and communication abilities

Education

PhD (or near completion) in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mathematics or related field

Job description

Postdoctoral Research Associate – Quantum Networking (Job Number: 26000032)

Job Type: Fixed Term – Full Time

Closing Date

10-Feb-2026, 11:59:00 PM

Department: Computer Science, Durham University

Start Date: 1 May 2026 (flexible)

End Date: 30 April 2028

The role is located within the Network Engineering, Science and Theory (NESTiD) research group. The successful applicant will focus on the design and performance analysis of resource allocation algorithms for entanglement distribution in quantum networks, contributing to the project “Utility Optimization in Quantum Networks: Algorithm Design and Analysis” funded by the EPSRC AI hub “INFORMED‑AI”.

Key Responsibilities

• Present research material to team and external audiences through papers, conferences, workshops and internal seminars.
• Prepare and deliver presentations to sponsors and academic/non‑academic stakeholders.
• Publish high‑quality papers in peer‑reviewed journals and present at conferences.
• Assist in developing research objectives, proposals and methodologies under the Principal Investigator’s guidance.
• Conduct individual and collaborative research projects, addressing challenges and proposing innovative solutions.
• Collaborate with group members to identify new research areas and expand the project portfolio.
• Resolve research obstacles through discussion and creative problem‑solving.
• Establish and maintain internal and external contacts to support future collaborations.
• Plan and manage own research activities and resources, contributing to overall project planning.
• Provide training in research techniques to peers, visitors and students.
• Support student supervision and assessment activities.
• Promote a collegial, respectful and inclusive working environment.
• Engage in departmental citizenship and professional development activities.
• [Any other specific responsibilities].

Desired Qualifications and Experience

• PhD (or near completion) in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mathematics or a related field.
• Strong background in mathematical modelling, performance evaluation of communication networks, applied probability, queueing theory, stochastic processes and optimisation.
• Experience in high‑quality academic research and peer‑reviewed publications.
• Track record of presenting research at international conferences.
• Evidence of developing research proposals and designs collaboratively.
• Experience supervising or mentoring students in research activities.
• Excellent programming skills and the ability to work independently on complex projects.

Key Skills

• Teamwork and collaborative research participation.
• Self‑direction, initiative and adherence to deadlines.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication abilities.

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

We welcome and encourage applications from candidates with disabilities, neurodiversity and long‑term health conditions. We are committed to fair treatment throughout the recruitment process and will provide reasonable adjustments where needed. We actively promote an inclusive and respectful workplace for all staff and students.

Contact Information

Academic Contact: Dr. Thirupathaiah Vasantam, [e-mail]

Technical Support for Applications: [e-mail]

Phone (UK): 0191 334 6801 (Mon‑Fri 09:00‑17:00)

Application Process

Applicants should submit a CV and cover letter (detailing experience, skills and achievements) and a statement of research aspirations (max. 2 pages). Candidates will be assessed against the essential criteria in the Person Specification.

Short‑listed candidates will receive an invitation for a virtual or on‑site assessment, including a research presentation and interview. Interviews will take place in the week commencing 23 February 2026.

Important Notices

Salary and benefits are competitive and include 30 days annual leave, pension scheme, parking, cycle‑to‑work scheme, car lease options, and extensive professional development opportunities. We provide comprehensive health and wellbeing support, childcare services, generous maternity and adoption leave, and opportunities to volunteer in the local community.