Assistant Professor in Statistical Data Science

Join to apply for the Assistant Professor in Statistical Data Science role at Heriot-Watt University.

The Department of Actuarial Mathematics and Statistics at Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, is seeking to enhance and expand its strengths in research and teaching by appointing an Assistant Professor in Statistical Data Science, or related area. This is an open-ended position.

• Lead, carry out and publish internationally excellent research in statistical data science, or a related field.
• Apply for research funding through either the submission of high-quality grant proposals or funding from industry, with the goal of building a research group.
• Undertake knowledge exchange activities to promote and disseminate research.
• Carry out administrative and recruitment activities as required to achieve these aims.
• Develop and deliver innovative teaching in statistics, actuarial science, financial mathematics or related fields at undergraduate and postgraduate level.
• Teach on the Data Science joint programme with Xidian University.
• Be responsible to the Head of Department for performing the above activities in a way that maintains and enhances the School’s reputation for excellence.

As a successful candidate, you will lead, carry out and publish internationally excellent research in your field. You will have a strong track record of research in actuarial data science, which may also include machine learning, financial risk and climate change risk, demonstrated through publications, citations, external invitations and research funding.

You will be established as an international research leader, with the ambition to build a world-class academic group and have the experience or potential to supervise PhD students and post-doctoral researchers. You will have the relevant experience to engage in and innovate our specialised statistical, data science, actuarial and financial degree programmes. You will have the drive and commitment to contribute to the expansion of our teaching programmes.

• E1. PhD in statistics, or related field.
• E2. Track-record of high-quality research in statistical data science with internationally excellent publications.
• E3. Demonstrable teaching experience related to the Department’s courses, as well as skills to supervise undergraduate and postgraduate dissertations in Statistical Data Science.
• E4. Excellent interpersonal and teamwork skills.

• D1. Track record of obtaining research funding.
• D2. Track record of successful supervision of PhD students and/or post-doctoral researchers.
• D3. Potential to provide leadership in the development and implementation of research strategy and in the planning, organisation and development of learning and teaching activities in the Department.

Interested applicants must submit via the Heriot-Watt University online recruitment system: (1) a cover letter describing interest and suitability for the post; (2) a full CV, including a list of publications; (3) an outline of research plans for the next few years; and (4) a one-page summary of teaching philosophy or approach.

Applications can be submitted until midnight on Monday 2 February 2026. Shortlisting is expected in the week of 9 February, with interviews in late February or early March.

If you have questions, you may contact the Head of Department, Professor George Streftaris ().

Heriot-Watt University values diversity and equality of opportunity in employment and aims to create an inclusive environment. The university is committed to equality and diversity and welcomes applications from all sectors of society.