Senior Research Associate on Power of Algorithms in Discrete Optimisation

Department of Computer Science, Wolfson Building, Parks Road, Oxford.
Senior Research Associate on Power of Algorithms in Discrete Optimisation
Fixed term for 2 years from 1/10/2018 (start date negotiable, with the possibility of an extension until 31/12/2021)
Grade 8: Salary £39,992 – £47,722 p.a.

We are pleased to announce the availability of a full-time (flexible options considered) Senior Research Associate, on the Power of Algorithms in Discrete Optimisation project, under the supervision of Professor Standa Zivny. This position is available for 2 years, with the possibility of an extension until 31/12/2021.

The goal of the project is to investigate convex relaxations, such as linear (LP) and semidefinite (SDP) programming, and we seek to establish the power convex relaxations through the lens of, and with the extensions of methods designed for, non-uniform Constraint Satisfaction Problems (CSPs).

You will be expected to conduct individual research and develop research questions, regularly write research articles at a national level for peer-reviewed journals, agree clear task objectives, organise, and delegate work to other members of the team, and share responsibility for shaping the research group’s plans.

You will have a doctoral degree in Computer Science/related mathematical discipline, together with a strong publication record and familiarity with the existing literature and research in algorithms, complexity, constraint satisfaction, optimisation or related areas, as witnessed by published, peer-reviewed work.  Expertise in algorithm design, computational complexity, linear programming relaxations, semidefinite programming relaxations, or constraint satisfaction problems including algebraic methods for classifying their difficulty is highly desirable.

Whilst the role is a grade 8 position, we would be willing to consider candidates with potential but less experience who are seeking a development opportunity, for which an initial appointment would be at grade 7 (£31,604 - £38,833 p.a.) with the responsibilities adjusted accordingly (for Grade 7, you would be expected to hold a doctoral degree in Computer Science or a related discipline, or be close to completion). This would be discussed with applicants at interview/appointment where appropriate.

The closing date for applications is 12 noon on 15 June 2018.