Postdoctoral Research Fellow

University of the West of Scotland – School of Health & Life Sciences

Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the University of the West of Scotland (Lanarkshire campus) working in the research group led by Professor Kath Sloman in environmental science in close collaboration with Professor Jose Alcaraz Calero at Aston University, Birmingham. This position will support the aims of the interdisciplinary UKRI-funded project ‘Early intervention systems for sustainable aquaculture health in Viet Nam and Thailand’.

The project is funded by UKRI (UK Research and Innovation) as part of a collaborative interdisciplinary project with the University of Strathclyde, The James Hutton Institute, Aston University, Can Tho University (Viet Nam) and The Vidyasirimedhi Institute of Science and Technology (Thailand).

The overall project will develop technologies for rapid identification of changes in pathogen load, water quality, animal behaviour and feeding that can be used as early warnings of adverse health outcomes in aquaculture (with particular reference to shrimp). How these parameters are influenced by wider climatic fluctuations will also be considered. The PDRA will be responsible for analysis of video footage and acoustic recordings collected in shrimp ponds, and shrimp aquaculture systems at UWS. Data extraction will use established methods such as deep learning algorithms based on neural networks (e.g. YOLO (You Only Look Once)) and acoustic signal analysis software (e.g. Raven Pro or Python equivalents). The PDRA will be responsible for quantitative analysis of extracted data and will link with modelling carried out by partner institutions. They will work alongside other PDRAs within the UK, Viet Nam and Thailand in data analysis, generation of scientific reports and papers, and integrating research findings across disciplines.

The successful candidate should have the following:

• Ph.D. (awarded or close to completion) in Computer Science, ideally linked to an image and/or acoustic analysis.
• Experience of working in research or industry relevant to computer science.
• Good project management and communication skills.
• Excellent computer skills, particularly in relation to image/acoustic analysis.
• Programming skills in a programming language such as Python, Java, or similar.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• Knowledge of current methods used in image/acoustic analysis.

About us

University of the West of Scotland is one of Scotland’s largest and most dynamic modern universities. Our reach across the country, together with our London campus, means that UWS is a significant force in global knowledge creation, innovation, and a leading provider of undergraduate, postgraduate and research degree education. Our degrees provide students with a transformational experience; equipping them with highly sought-after graduate skills that set them up for global success in world-leading sectors, industries and businesses.

With cutting-edge courses, modern pedagogy and practical knowledge, we enable our students and staff to experience the joy of learning, teaching, research and innovation, and apply their knowledge for the benefit of others. 

UWS is officially ranked by Times Higher Education in the top 200 universities worldwide under 50 years old (2024 Young University Rankings).

The School of Health & Life Sciences at UWS offers innovative teaching and research opportunities, firmly focused on the real-world challenges facing the healthcare and life sciences sectors. You will join a supportive and committed team, where you will play a key role in continuing to establish the University as a force for good. Our students benefit from studying in modern learning facilities – among the very best in the country – and the strong links we have with partner organisations across the private, public and third sectors.

UWS is fully committed to the UK Concordat to support the Career Development of Researchers which sets out clear standards that research staff can expect from the University. It aims to improve the employment and support for research careers in the UK and provides a framework for career development based around the Concordat principles.

We offer our staff a caring and supportive environment, across five campuses, and a competitive benefits package which includes: 

• 35 days of annual leave, plus a further 12 days for public/university holidays
• An additional days leave on your birthday
• Defined benefit contribution pension scheme (including death in service benefits upon joining the scheme  
• A flexible approach to working pattern and work-life balance
• Employee discount scheme across 3,500 retailers
• Fitness facilities across our campuses
• Access to a range of health and wellbeing resources, including occupational health, physiotherapy and access to our Employee Assistance Programme
• Professional, career and research development opportunities.

Please contact Professor Kath Sloman (katherine.sloman@uws.ac.uk) for further information.

Interview Date: Thursday 28^th October 2025

Please note that the appointment will be made on the first point of the salary scale (unless by exception, where evidence would need to be provided)

The University reserves the right to shorten/extend the closing date of any position where a high/low volume of suitable applications are received. Therefore, if you are interested in this role, an early application would be encouraged.

You can find out more about how the University uses your personal data as part of the recruitment process by looking at the UWS HR Applicant Privacy Notice at www.uws.ac.uk

UWS are committed signatories to the Armed Forces Covenant.

UWS is committed to equality and diversity and welcomes applications from underrepresented groups.

UWS is a “Disability Confident” employer.

University of the West of Scotland is a registered Scottish charity, no. SC002520.

JDPS - REQ000330 - Postdoctoral Research Fellow.pdf