Research Associate

As a researcher in machine learning, you will work on the project "Advanced chemical data analysis software for Fast CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, & Nuclear material) detection and attribution", funded by the Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA), part of the UK Ministry of Defence. You will support the Principal Investigator and research team in delivering a pioneering project focused on advanced analytical techniques with potential impact across forensic science, environmental monitoring, the defence industry, and societal well-being.

Contract type: Fixed Term Contract. Location: Penrhyn Road, Kingston upon Thames. Hours: 37 per week. Salary: £38,863 – £43,230 per annum. Closing date: 08/09/2025.

• Develop computational and mathematical based solutions, including machine learning approaches, for analysing chemical data.
• Integrate these solutions into Python-based software tailored for use by analytical chemists in both field and laboratory settings.
• Prepare and present work for monthly project meetings with the research team and funding body; travel occasionally for research activities or dissemination.
• Contribute to the preparation of research outputs, including reports and publications, working collaboratively with colleagues under the guidance of the research lead; engage in collaborative decision-making on research challenges.
• Contribute to advancing the institution's strategic research agenda and overall development.

You will apply your subject expertise in machine learning to conduct research aimed at improving chemical analytical approaches for protecting citizens, while also advancing the boundaries of the discipline—making a real impact on society.

• Postgraduate qualification in Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, or a closely related discipline, with relevant research experience. An undergraduate degree in Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics or an appropriate Engineering discipline would be advantageous.
• Experience in advanced Python programming is essential. Ability to design intuitive user interfaces and data visualisations for non-IT experts. An interest in physics and chemistry would be an advantage. Willingness to travel, present your work, and write reports and research publications.
• A strong interest in pursuing research; ability to meet deadlines; aptitude for reading and writing academic papers; productive teamwork; and a drive to exceed expectations.

Join us in the Faculty of Engineering, Computing and the Environment and become part of a team of over 100 postgraduate/postdoctoral researchers and 50 academics with significant activities in research and knowledge exchange. We work collaboratively across disciplines to provide a rich and diverse educational experience, tackle strategic innovation challenges, and deliver meaningful economic, social, and environmental impact.

The Faculty has invested in new facilities, and our laboratories offer access to high-performance computing, a brand new robotics lab and flight simulator. Kingston University emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration and offers opportunities to gain teaching experience, supported by the TEF Gold rating.

The School of Computer Science and Mathematics is deeply committed to inclusion and holds an Athena SWAN Silver Award.

This is a full-time, fixed-term position until 30 September 2026 with a starting salary of £38,863 per annum. Interviews are expected to be held in the week commencing 22 September 2025. We would like the successful candidate to start in October 2025. For informal enquiries, please contact Dr Gordon Hunter, Associate Professor, or Professor JC Nebel, Knowledge Exchange & Research Institutes Director - Cyber, Engineering & Digital Technologies.

Bring your true self, expertise, and passion to Kingston where we are continuing to strive to build a university where authentic inclusion and belonging is at its heart. We welcome applications from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds, LGBTQ+ communities and those with disabilities. We are a place-based organisation, proud of our location in Kingston and the civic role we play in our community. Our campuses inspire collaborative, innovative and creative communities. Staff are expected to be on campus for the majority of their working week. Candidates must be able to demonstrate their eligibility to work in the UK in accordance with the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006.

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Contract details: Fixed Term Contract | Location: Penrhyn Road, Kingston upon Thames | Hours: 37 per week | Salary: £38,863 – £43,230 per annum | Closing date: 08/09/2025.