Research Associate

University of Glasgow

1mo ago

Applications are closed

Job
Full-time
Junior Level
Research & Development
Education & Teaching
Glasgow

Requirements

A1. Normally Scottish Credit and Qualification Framework level 12 (PhD) with at least 2 years’ post-doctoral experience in a similar or related role(s), or alternatively possess the equivalent in professional qualifications and experience.
A2. Extensive knowledge of developing and maintaining agent-based models in the Julia programming language.
A3. Knowledge of evolutionary simulations and their application.
A4. Sufficient depth of relevant research experience, normally including sufficient postdoctoral experience in a related field, appropriate to an early career researcher.
B1. Knowledge of PPI approaches relevant to this project, such as systems mapping methods.
B2. An understanding of the current major challenges in public health and wellbeing and the policy environment surrounding these challenges.
B3. Knowledge of calibration and uncertainty quantification methods for the enhancement of ABM accuracy (e.g., Gaussian process emulation, Bayesian calibration methods, etc.).
B4. Knowledge of epidemiological, statistical and microsimulation methods, and their strengths and weaknesses relative to ABM, as well as their potential to be linked to ABM in hybrid modelling approaches.
C1. Proven ability to deliver quality outputs in a timely and efficient manner.
C2. Ability to demonstrate a degree of independence as illustrated by identification of project objectives from assessment of the literature, design and analysis of policy modules, and drafting of papers.
C3. Highly proficient in the use of the Julia programming language.
C4. Appropriate workload/time/project/budget/people management skills.
C5. Research creativity and cross-discipline collaborative ability, including being able to work with colleagues from across different disciplines and sectors.
D1. Proficient in the use of Python and/or R for analysis of simulation outputs.
D2. Ability to develop scalable simulations for use on high-performance computing clusters.
E1. A track record of presentation and publication of research results in quality journals/conferences.
E2. Experience in undertaking independent research.
E3. Experience of developing agent-based models in the Julia programming language.
E4. Commitment to open research, as appropriate to the discipline, through open data, open code, open educational resources and practices that support replication.
E5. Proven commitment to supporting the career development of colleagues and to other forms of collegiality appropriate to the career stage.
F1. Experience of public engagement – for example designing and running activities to engage focus groups directly in research design and feedback.
F2. Track record of creating and maintaining working relationships with non-academic partners.
F3. Experience of stakeholder engagement – for example, arranging stakeholder workshops, and writing up results in a manner accessible to stakeholders outside academia.
F4. Experience of applying ABM to population health challenges.
F5. Experience of successfully publishing papers within population health, epidemiology, or related areas.

Responsibilities

Take a leading role in the planning and conduct of the ABM project, sometimes individually and sometimes jointly with the wider team, in accordance with the project deliverables and project/group/School/College research strategy.
Document research output including analysis and interpretation of simulation outcomes, thoroughly documenting module code, and drafting technical/progress reports and papers as appropriate.
Establish and maintain your research profile and reputation and that of The University of Glasgow/ School/ Research Group, including establishing and sustaining a track record of independent and joint publications of international quality in high profile/quality refereed publications, enhancing the research impact in terms of economic/societal benefit, and gathering indicators of esteem.
Survey the research literature and environment, understand the research challenges associated with the development of a wellbeing economy, and develop/implement a suitable research strategy.
Presentation of work at international and national conferences (e.g. the Society for Social Medicine conference, Lancet Public Health Conference, the Social Simulation Conference (ESSA), Artificial Life, etc.), at internal and external seminars (e.g. with colleagues and to local and national decision makers), colloquia and workshops to develop and enhance the research and our research profile.
Take a leading role in the identification of potential funding sources and to assist in the development of proposals to secure funding from internal and external bodies to support future research. For example, there will be opportunities to apply for funding to extend the work into important new areas as they arise and to support the career development of the candidate.
Take a leading role in developing and maintaining collaborations with colleagues across the research group/School/College/University and wider community (e.g. stakeholders from Public Health Scotland, Glasgow HDRC/Glasgow City Council, the Scottish Government and our other policy and PPI partners).
Take a leading role in team/group meetings/seminars/workshops and School research group activities to enhance the wider knowledge, outputs and culture of the School/College.
Take the lead in the organisation, supervision, and mentoring of postgraduate students and less experienced members of the project team to ensure their effective development.
Perform administrative tasks related to the activities of the research group and School, including Budgets/Expenditure.
Make a leading contribution to Teaching activities (e.g. demonstrating etc) and associated admin as assigned by the Head of School and in consultation with Principal Investigator.
Keep up to date with current knowledge and recent advances in the field/discipline.
Engage in personal, professional and career development, to enhance both specialist and transferable skills in accordance with desired career trajectory.
Undertake any other reasonable duties as required by the Head of School/Director of Research Institute.
Contribute to the enhancement of the University’s international profile in line with the University Strategy.

FAQs

What is the application deadline for the Research Associate position?

The application deadline is 27 May 2025 at 23:45.

What is the salary range for this position?

The salary range for the Research Associate position is £40,497 to £45,413.

Who will the successful candidate work with?

The successful candidate will work with Dr. Eric Silverman and colleagues within the University of Glasgow as well as partners in the NIHR Health Determinants Research Collaboration.

What programming language will be primarily used in this role?

The primary programming language used in this role will be Julia.

Is prior experience in agent-based modelling required?

Yes, extensive knowledge of developing and maintaining agent-based models in the Julia programming language is a key requirement.

What type of research environment does the University promote?

The University promotes an inclusive community that values ambition, excellence, integrity, and curiosity, ensuring equality, diversity, and inclusion at its core.

Are there opportunities for professional development in this position?

Yes, there will be opportunities for on-the-job training in policy exchange and patient and public involvement (PPI), as well as support for career development.

What is the expected end date for this position?

The position has funding up to 28 June 2030.

Will the position involve teaching responsibilities?

Yes, the post holder will be expected to contribute to teaching activities and associated administrative tasks as assigned.

Can international applicants apply for this position, and is there support for relocation?

Yes, international applicants are welcome, and the University can support the expenses of relocating to Glasgow and/or visa costs.

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