Research Associate in Rigorous Numerics for Matrix Functions

Vacancy terms: Full-time or job share, fixed term contract from 01 August 2026 to 31 May 2029

Hours per week: 37.5

About the role

We are seeking an ambitious and creative early career researcher to join the School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences as a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Rigorous Numerics for Matrix Functions. The post holder will work with Dr Behnam Hashemi on the EPSRC New Investigator Award project Rigorous Numerics for Transcendental Functions of Matrices, a UK funded project led by the University of Leicester with international academic partners in Germany and the UK. The research focuses on the development of verified algorithms for computing matrix functions, with applications across differential equations, dynamical systems, probability theory, network science and control theory.

You will join the Scientific Computing and Applications Research Group and conduct research at the interface of pure and applied mathematics and computer science. The role involves developing rigorous a posteriori error bounds using interval analysis, contributing to open source software development in MATLAB and Python, and disseminating research findings through publications and international conferences. You will work collaboratively within a world class and rapidly growing research environment, support graduate students associated with the project, and contribute positively to the wider research impact and professional life of the University.

About you

You will have completed a PhD in mathematics, computer science, or a closely related discipline, and will bring strong knowledge of linear algebra alongside advanced expertise in numerical analysis and scientific computing. You will be able to communicate complex ideas clearly through written and oral presentations, and will be motivated to develop high‑quality research outputs in leading academic venues. Experience in research is essential, and knowledge of floating‑point arithmetic, interval analysis or matrix functions would be advantageous.

You will be able to work independently while contributing effectively as part of a collaborative research team, managing your time to meet project priorities and adapting flexibly to evolving research needs. 

Additional information

For informal enquiries, please contact Behnam Hashemi on bh241@leicester.ac.uk.

We anticipate that interviews will take place in late June or early July 2026. 

As part of the University’s ongoing commitment to professional development, this role will also be considered on a seconded basis for existing staff members. Please ensure this is discussed with your line manager prior to applying. 

The University of Leicester has been changing the world, and changing people’s lives, for 100 years. When you join us, you’ll become part of a community of Citizens of Change, which includes not only our staff and our current students but also thousands of Leicester graduates around the world.

As a diverse and forward-thinking employer, we embed the principles of equity, diversity and inclusion into everything we do. That includes not just our core missions of teaching and research, but also our support for staff, students and our local community through our values of Inspiring, Impactful and Inclusive through our values of Inspiring, Impactful and Inclusive.

We’re committed to the wellbeing of all our staff and to the sustainability of our environment, on our campus and beyond. We offer a competitive salary package, excellent pension scheme and a generous annual leave allowance, along with opportunities to develop your career in a supportive and collaborative environment.

Advert closes midnight on: 02 June 2026

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