Senior Research Associate on Ethical Web and Data Architectures
Posted: 2nd December 2022
Department of Computer Science, Parks Road, Oxford.
Senior Research Associate on Ethical Web and Data Architectures
Full time, Fixed-term until 30 November 2024 starting from 1 April 2023
Grade 8: Salary £43,414 - £46,047 p.a. (Post may be under-filled at Grade 7 £34,308 - £42,155 p.a.)
We are looking for a researcher to work on the project of Ethical Web and Data Architectures in the Age of AI (EWADA) under the supervision of Professors Sir Nigel Shadbolt and Sir Tim Berners-Lee. The aim of the project is to rebalance the concentration of power on the Web by developing and deploying new forms of technical and institutional infrastructure. A key objective is to investigate novel decentralisation architectures such as SOLID and privacy-preserving AI methods and define new institutional and legal constructs that are required in this transformative approach we term “architectures for autonomy”.
As a researcher on this project, you will be expected to be a lead designer and developer for the core technical platforms of the EWADA project, including working within our technical team contributing to the Social Linked Data OS (SOLID OS). You will work collaboratively with the PIs and other members of the research team on the project, as well as independently leading and developing their own body of research in line with the project’s aims. The post holder will be a member of the Human Centred Computing theme within the Department of Computer Science. The research group carries out world leading research relating to Human Computer Interaction, Human Centred AI, responsible innovation, and ethical data infrastructures. More information on Human Centred Computing can be found here: https://www.cs.ox.ac.uk/research/HCC/.
You will hold a PhD in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Software Engineering, OR a MSc/M.Eng in Computer Science or Computer Engineering and substantial post-graduate experience in software engineering and/or relevant research experience. You will possess a strong experience in software and requirements engineering, especially around Web-based technologies, distributed architectures, database and system design. You are expected to be familiar with web-based programming languages such as Javascript, Ruby, Python etc, and full-stack web application development. Excellent communication skills are also required, including the ability to write for publication, present research proposals and results, and represent the research group at meetings. Willingness to collaborate with others and work effectively as a member of a team is essential.
It is anticipated that the balance of this post would be approximately 60% software development and 40% Research.
We can consider candidates with potential but less experience who are seeking a development opportunity, for which an initial appointment would be at Grade 7 (£34,308 - £42,155 p.a.) with responsibilities adjusted accordingly. This would be discussed with applicants at interview/appointment where appropriate.
Applicants will be required to upload a supporting statement, setting out how you meet the selection criteria.
The closing date for applications is 12 noon on 27 January 2023. Interviews are expected to be held in February.
We are a Stonewall Top 100 Employer, Living Wage and Mindful Employer, holding an Athena Swan Bronze Award, HR excellence in Research and Race Equality Charter Bronze Award.
Our staff and students come from all over the world and we proudly promote a friendly and inclusive culture. Diversity is positively encouraged, through diversity groups and champions, as well as a number of family-friendly policies, such as the right to apply for flexible working and support for staff returning from periods of extended absence, for example shared parental leave.
Demonstrating a commitment to provide equality of opportunity. We would particularly welcome applications from women and black and minority ethnic applicants who are currently under-represented within the Computer Science Department. All applicants will be judged on merit, according to the selection criteria.
For further details and to apply please visit: