Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Group Theory
Applications are invited for a Research Associate position in the School of Mathematics and Statistics at the Open University to work with Dr Nick Gill on the EPSRC-Funded project: The Binary Actions of Finite Groups.
The project involves mathematical research in the area of group theory. The aim of the project is to classify the binary actions of the finite groups. You will work with Dr Nick Gill at the Open University, together with Professor Martin Liebeck (Imperial College, London), Professor Pierre Guillot (University of Strasbourg) and Professor Pablo Spiga (University of Milano-Bicocca).
This project is the sequel to a successful earlier project which classified the primitive binary actions of the finite groups. Further information on the earlier project can be found in the monograph on the subject by Gill, Liebeck and Spiga. Queries can also be directed to Nick Gill: nick.gill@open.ac.uk.
Candidates must have completed or be close to completing a PhD in a subject relevant to the project, which includes (but is not restricted to) finite group theory, permutation group theory, computation with finite groups, and combinatorics.
The post is funded for 36 months and is available from 1 April 2025. The successful candidate will be based in the UK. It is anticipated that a hybrid working pattern can be adopted for this role, where the successful candidate can work from home and the office. Nick Gill is based in Cardiff and the role will be contractually aligned to Milton Keynes. It is expected that some attendance in the office will be required when necessary.
The candidate will join the Combinatorics and Algebra Group within the School of Mathematics and Statistics. This Group currently includes 6 academic researchers and 2 PhD students.
The School provides a supportive and flexible working environment, where diversity is celebrated. The School is active in challenging injustice and promoting equitable treatment for those from marginalised or under-represented groups. It holds an Athena Swan Silver award for its work in gender equality.
Key Responsibilities
* Collaborate with Nick Gill’s research group on the study of binary actions.
* Attend project meetings and relevant research group meetings.
* Play an active part in the research community at the Open University.
* Publish research results in journals of international standing.
* Disseminate research results at seminars and conferences, nationally and internationally.
* Observe the principles of equality, diversity, and inclusion.
* Follow the University’s Research Ethics, Health and Safety and Equal Opportunities policies.
* Attend appropriate staff development events.
* Assist with public engagement activities.
Skills and Expertise
Essential
* PhD in mathematics (completed or close to completed) in a subject relevant to the project, such as (but not restricted to) finite group theory, permutation group theory, computation with finite groups, combinatorics.
* Experience of publishing in (or submitting to) journals of international standing.
* Strong oral and written communication skills.
* Willingness to promote research within the School of Mathematics and Statistics.
* Commitment to the principles of equality, diversity, and inclusion.
Desirable
* Background knowledge in subjects relevant to the project (in addition to the PhD topic).
* Evidence of independent and collaborative research.
* Interest in public engagement evidenced by outreach experience.
* Programming skills.
To apply for this role please submit the following:
* CV
* A personal statement, up to 1000 words, you should set out in your statement why you’re interested in this role and provide examples of where your skills and experience meet the essential and desirable criteria listed above.
Please submit your CV and personal statement as a single document.
Intended Interview Dates: Candidate shortlisting will begin in early January with interviews being held, beginning the 3rd week of January over Microsoft Teams.
*Early Close: We may choose to close the application date early if we reach a high number of applications. However, if you would still like to apply before the deadline originally advertised do not hesitate to contact us and we can discuss this with the Chair of the panel.
Contact us
If you have any queries or questions about the recruitment process, or regarding your application, please contact: Careers@open.ac.uk.
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