Senior Research Associate

Senior Research Associate
Mathematics & Statistics
Salary: £34,189 to £39,609
Closing Date: Monday 26 November 2018
Interview Date: To be confirmed
Reference: A2475
An exciting opportunity exists for a researcher to review and develop non-stationary statistical models for extreme natural hazard events. This is a collaborative research project between Lancaster University and Frazer-Nash Consultancy. The project offers the opportunity to work with multiple commercial end-users within the nuclear sector, to gain an understanding of their needs and requirements, and to develop appropriate statistical tools to help them to assess future risk from a variety of natural hazards.

You will firstly obtain a thorough understanding of the existing methodology used for non-stationary extreme events, both as documented in the statistical literature and as used in practice by the nuclear industry. To obtain information on the latter, you will need to design and conduct interviews and discussions with stake-holders and end-users. In close partnership with Frazer-Nash Consultancy, you will then develop a structured framework outlining potential improvements on the current methodology used within the nuclear industry. You will then use this framework to implement novel statistical methodology which can be taken-up by end-users. Throughout the project, you will be expected to organise progress meetings with, and provide a series of progress reports for, Frazer-Nash Consultancy; you will then use the progress reports as a basis for writing an academic paper. Whilst the position is primarily based at Lancaster University, there may be an opportunity for you to undertake a short-term placement in the offices of Frazer-Nash Consultancy at some point during the project.

You should have completed, or be close to completing, a PhD in statistics, data science, or a closely related discipline. Experience of extreme value analysis is desirable but not essential. However it is imperative that you have a demonstrable ability to both carry out and publish academic research, and to develop research-level software. It is desirable, though not essential, that you have experience communicating with non-academic partners, and you must be able to demonstrate that you can work to deadlines.

The position is available for immediate start, and will run for 12 months. Interviews will be carried out shortly after the closing date.

Interested candidates are strongly advised to contact Dr. Emma Eastoe e.eastoe@lancaster.ac.uk in advance of making an application.

We welcome applications from people in all diversity groups.

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