The School of Mathematics and Statistics at the University of St Andrews is seeking to hire a 3-year Postdoctoral Research Associate to work on the EPSRC project "Applications of symplectic geometry to algebra". The successful candidate will join a vibrant research environment within the School of Mathematics and Statistics, which has a strong international reputation across a wide range of mathematical disciplines.

We are seeking candidates who have (or will be near to completing) a Ph.D. in Mathematics. While candidates from all areas of geometry will be considered, we are especially interested in candidates with previous research experience in symplectic geometry, algebraic geometry, commutative algebra, or tropical geometry.  In addition to collaborating with the grant holder (Jeff Hicks), successful candidates are encouraged to pursue their own research directions during the position. The candidate will join the newly formed research group in Geometry, whose members study symplectic geometry, mirror symmetry, tropical geometry, rigidity theory, and geometric group theory.

The position includes funding for travel, computing, and research expenses. If desired, the holder of the position will be able to engage in activities benefiting their professional development, including student supervision, teaching, workshop organization, or other outreach activities. Informal enquiries are encouraged and can be directed to jeff.hicks@st-andrews.ac.uk.

Applications should be submitted online via the University of St Andrews website at:  Jobs - University of St Andrews

Applications must include:

• A cover letter outlining your interest in the position and relevant experience.
• A curriculum vitae (CV) including a list of publications.
• A research statement describing your past research and future research interests.
•  The names and contact details of at least three academic referees. If you would like your submitted letters of recommendation to be used to further support your application at the short listing stage, you must indicate that you allow us to contact your referees in the online application form.

Employees of the University have access to a wide range of staff benefits, including:

• Annual leave of 34 days, plus 5 public holidays
• Reimbursement of visa expenses
• Membership of the USS Pension Scheme with generous employer contributions
• A hybrid working environment, including partial homeworking where appropriate and a range of family-friendly policies
• Staff discount scheme for local and national goods and services
• Free staff parking, employee Carshare and Cycle to Work Schemes, and subsidised local bus travel
• Subsidised sports membership, reduced tuition fees on degree programmes for staff, access to training and development opportunities, library facilities, and a salary sacrifice scheme
• A range of wellbeing initiatives including membership of Peppy, a health application that connects staff to expert practitioners and personalized support on health matters

The University of St Andrews is committed to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion, and applications are particularly welcome from under-represented groups in research posts at the University.  Equality, diversity, and inclusion are at the heart of the St Andrews experience and form a central pillar of the University Strategy.  We strive to create a fair and inclusive culture, demonstrated through our commitment to diversity awards (Athena Swan, Carer Positive, Race Charters). Full details available online: https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/hr/edi/

Closing Date: 1 December 2025

Please quote ref: AR3164SB

Further Particulars: AR3164SB FPs.pdf

School of Mathematics and Statistics

Salary: £38,784 - £42,254 per annum

Start: September 2026 (negotiable)

Fixed term for 3 years