Research Assistant in Combinatorial 4-Manifold Topology

Location: Andrew Wiles Building, Radcliffe Observatory Quarter, Woodstock Road, Oxford, OX2 6GG

We are currently inviting applications for a Research Assistant in combinatorial 4-manifold topology to work with Professor Christopher Douglas at the Mathematical Institute, University of Oxford. This is a full-time, fixed-term position for 10 months, funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) through the grant “Computable Manifolds”. The successful candidate will be expected to start as soon as possible.

The successful candidate will carry out research as part of the EPSRC grant “Computable Manifolds”. The project is developing computable approaches to manifolds using ideas from higher algebra, quantum topology, and combinatorial and computable topology. The Research Assistant will focus on questions in 4-manifold topology and on preparing the resulting research for publication.

The post is intended for a researcher with master’s-level training, or equivalent experience, who has a strong working knowledge of 4-manifold topology and is ready to develop that knowledge through focused research. The role has no teaching duties.

We proudly hold a departmental Athena SWAN Silver Award and an institutional Race Equality Charter Bronze Award. 

Please direct informal enquiries to the HR Administrator (email: recruitment@maths.ox.ac.uk), quoting vacancy reference 188595.

Please note: Applicants should upload a curriculum vitae only. No supporting statement, research statement, publication list, or reference letter is required at the application stage. Full details are contained in the job description.

Applications for this vacancy are to be made online. To apply for this vacancy and for further information, including a job description and selection criteria, please click on the above 'Apply' button. 

Only applications received before 12.00 noon UK time on Tuesday 15 September 2026 can be considered.

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