Introduction to YSJ university
York St John is an ambitious, modern university at the heart of historic York and there has never been a more exciting time to join us.
As one of the fastest growing universities in the U.K over recent years, we have a new strategy for the next decade, emphasising our commitment to widening opportunity through the power of education and contributing our talents to creating a fairer world, and a more prosperous region. We are putting inspirational learning and impactful research at the heart of this strategy, recognising our academic expertise as our greatest asset.
The School
Computer and Data Science is part of York Business School. Current undergraduate programmes include Computer Science, Cyber Security, and Data Science, with new pathways planned for 2027. Teaching is informed by active research and professional practice, emphasising inclusive learning, employability, applied experience, and authentic assessment through industry partnerships.
Students benefit from specialist computing laboratories, cybersecurity facilities, collaborative software development environments, and industry-standard technologies. Research strengths include:
- Cybersecurity
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Machine Learning
- Data Analytics
- Internet of Things (IoT)
- Software Engineering
- Games and Games Technologies
The School maintains strong partnerships with industry to support collaborative projects, knowledge exchange, and real-world learning opportunities.
The Role
York St John University seeks to appoint an Academic Associate in Computer Science or a related discipline, starting in September 2026. This four-year fixed-term position combines:
- A full-time, tuition fee-waived PhD
- A 0.5 FTE teaching and assessment role on undergraduate programmes
Academic Associates undertake doctoral research under the supervision of the Computer and Data Science research team while gaining teaching experience. During teaching semesters, timetabled duties will not exceed six contact hours per week across two working days and may include seminars, workshops, and tutorials. Training and development opportunities are provided to support teaching skills and professional growth.
Research Areas
Applications are invited from candidates proposing research aligned with the School’s strengths, including:
- Cybersecurity
- Internet of Things (IoT)
- Artificial Intelligence
- Machine Learning
- Games and Games Technologies
Interdisciplinary projects are strongly encouraged, particularly those demonstrating potential impact through the application of computing technologies to real-world challenges. Topics may include digital inclusion, responsible innovation, sustainable technologies, health and wellbeing, education, cybersecurity, public services, and social good.
Applicants should submit a research proposal of approximately 1,500 words demonstrating knowledge of current developments in their chosen field and readiness to undertake significant research. Prospective candidates are encouraged to discuss their ideas with relevant academic staff before applying.
Requirements
Applicants should have:
- A first-class or upper second-class honours degree in a relevant discipline (or an equivalent overseas qualification).
- Applications are welcome from candidates currently studying for a Masters degree, provided that all assessment work is completed and marks confirmed before commencement of the PhD at York St John University.
- A high level of English proficiency sufficient for doctoral research, teaching, administration, and effective communication.
The University is committed to inclusion and will consider flexible working or job-share requests. Appointment is subject to acceptance onto a PhD programme at York St John University.
For further information:
Dr Theocharis Kyriacou – t.kyriacou@yorksj.ac.uk