Research Assistant in Data Science

Building on recent Research Excellence Framework (REF) success, the University of Derby and the School of Computing is investing in and growing a number of key research areas. This includes opening the £13m Institute of Technology in 2023, expanding our Data Sciences Research Centre, and further growing our areas of expertise in Data Sciences, Cyber Security & Information Security, Software Engineering, Internet of Things, Computer Games & Immersive Technologies. At the school of Computing, we are at the forefront of innovation, leveraging data science to tackle some of the most pressing challenges in our field. Our dynamic team of researchers and academics is dedicated to advancing knowledge and developing cutting-edge solutions that make a real-world impact. Engaging with Small Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and our partners in the public and private sectors is our priority.

Are you passionate about data science and eager to contribute to ground-breaking research? Do you have a keen analytical mind and a drive to solve complex problems with data-driven solutions? If so, we have an exciting opportunity for you!

Supported by the Data Science research centre, Data Science is one of the six academic themes the University is investing in.

The Data Science theme has identified three clusters that better represents the current research focus to support our partners. These are Digital Society; Collaborative and Data Centric Engineering; and Digital Health and Well-Being. There are currently a large number of projects with our local partners mainly in the form of Knowledge Transfer Partnership. We are looking at strengthening the three clusters by appointing a Research Assistant. This is a three year full-time position and will be based in our Markeaton Street Campus. 

We are looking at appointing a Research Assistant in data science and AI with good research experience and a track record in producing high quality outputs. Experience in writing research bids would be an advantage. The Research Assistant is expected to support the design, implementation, and analysis of data-driven and AI research projects.

The successful candidate will hold a PhD in data Science, Artificial Intelligence or a related area and be able to develop their research agenda in such a way as to support and enhance the current research clusters. You will have expertise in AI areas such as machine learning, deep learning, generative and explainable AI.

You are expected to have good communication skills and be able to disseminate the research results to a wider audience.

1. Under the guidance of the Principal Investigator, carry out research activity that contributes to projects within the three clusters.
2. Analyse, interpret and evaluate research data and present conclusions on the data to those involved with the research project(s).
3. Contribute to the dissemination of the research project(s) in the appropriate format (such as a report, papers, book chapters, journals).
4. Use research resources such as laboratories, workshops and specialised equipment as appropriate to the project(s).
5. Update knowledge and understanding in own and other relevant disciplines.
6. Provide support as necessary with other staff for the supervision of undergraduate or postgraduate students and projects, which may involve demonstration or limited teaching.
7. Undertake appropriate training and staff development.
8. Provide guidance as required to other colleagues working on related research project(s).
9. Assist and help informally students working in the same research discipline.
10. Develop internal and external contacts with other academic staff to begin to form collaborative relationships and assist with their research project(s).
11. Understand own development needs and, with appropriate input, formulate a personal development plan.
12. Observe and implement University policies and procedures.