Job Summary Table of Topological Deep Learning

Job Description Summary

Imperial College London’s CIRCLE group is seeking two talented Research Associates to pioneer innovative approaches in topological and geometric machine learning, working on transformative projects spanning both theoretical research and practical applications under Prof. Birdal’s UKRI Future Leaders Fellowship.

🧠 Topological Deep Learning Research Opportunity

Are you passionate about exploring the intersection of algebraic topology, differential geometry, and cutting-edge machine learning? The CIRCLE research group at Imperial College London, under the leadership of Dr. Tolga Birdal, is recruiting highly motivated and talented Postdoctoral Research Associates (PDRAs) to join their innovative team. This prestigious opportunity is fully funded through Prof. Birdal’s UKRI Future Leaders Fellowship and offers a unique chance to contribute to groundbreaking research in topological deep learning.

As part of this distinguished research group, you’ll be at the forefront of designing novel methodologies that integrate topological structures into deep learning frameworks. Your work will have significant implications across multiple domains, from revolutionizing 3D generative models to enhancing protein and molecular modeling techniques. This interdisciplinary role requires expertise in complex mathematical concepts and their practical application to solve real-world challenges.

📊 The Fascinating World of Topological Deep Learning

Topological Deep Learning (TDL) represents one of the most exciting frontiers in artificial intelligence research. By incorporating principles from algebraic topology and differential geometry into neural network architectures, TDL enables models to better understand and leverage the inherent structure present in complex data. This approach has shown remarkable promise in handling non-Euclidean data types that traditional deep learning methods struggle with.

The CIRCLE group at Imperial College London is pioneering advancements in this field, developing novel frameworks that can effectively learn from intricate data representations such as boundary representations (BRep), molecular structures, and higher-order networks. These innovations are transforming our approach to problems ranging from computer-aided design to biomolecular science, opening new possibilities for scientific discovery and technological advancement.

🔍 Research Associate Responsibilities

As a Research Associate in Topological Deep Learning at Imperial College London, you will have the opportunity to make significant contributions to this rapidly evolving field. Your key responsibilities will include:

• Designing and implementing sophisticated machine learning pipelines that leverage topological and geometric principles to analyze and interpret complex data structures
• Pioneering innovative algorithms for topological deep learning, including state-of-the-art generative models, operator networks, and equivariant architectures
• Applying TDL tools to learn from intricate data representations such as boundary representations (BRep), molecular structures, and higher-order networks
• Developing next-generation TDL systems to address challenging applications in 3D scene modeling, CAD modeling, protein generation, and analysis of emergent properties in deep networks
• Leading the development and maintenance of TopoX, the group’s flagship TDL software package
• Establishing and nurturing collaborations with industry partners to translate research findings into impactful real-world applications
• Mentoring junior researchers and engineers, ensuring alignment of project goals and team objectives
• Representing the lab at leading conferences and workshops to showcase pioneering research and innovations

🌟 Ideal Candidate Profile

The ideal candidates for these positions will demonstrate:

• A PhD in Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, or a closely related discipline (candidates who have not yet been officially awarded their PhD will be appointed as Research Assistant with a salary range of £43,003 – £46,297 per annum)
• Substantial practical experience within research environments and a strong publication record in relevant peer-reviewed journals and conferences
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively with industry partners and research collaborators
• Outstanding skills in algebraic topology and related mathematical techniques
• Extensive practical experience with graph/topological neural networks and computer vision applications
• Proficiency in programming frameworks such as PyTorch or TensorFlow
• Comprehensive knowledge of research methods, experimental design, and statistical procedures
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to present complex technical concepts clearly

🎁 Benefits and Perks

Imperial College London offers an attractive remuneration package and supportive work environment:

• Competitive salary range of £43,003 – £56,345 per annum
• Fixed-term appointment for 1 year with potential for extension
• Opportunity to work at a world-leading research institution with state-of-the-art facilities
• Generous leave allowance (38 days off per year)
• Access to Imperial’s extensive professional development programs
• Collaborative research environment with opportunities to work alongside leading experts
• Platform to present your research at prestigious international conferences
• Opportunity to contribute to open-source software development with global impact
• Potential for industry collaboration and knowledge transfer opportunities

🏛️ Imperial College London Overview

Imperial College London stands as a global top ten university where scientific imagination leads to world-changing impact. As a member of this vibrant community of 22,000 students and 8,000 staff, you’ll collaborate with passionate minds across nine London campuses and an extensive global network.

The university navigates some of the world’s toughest challenges, from global health to climate change, artificial intelligence to business leadership. Whatever your role at Imperial, your contribution will have a lasting impact on society and scientific advancement.

🌈 Company Culture

Imperial College London fosters an inclusive and collaborative environment that celebrates diversity and innovation. The university works toward equality of opportunity, eliminating discrimination, and creating an inclusive working environment for all. Applications are encouraged from all backgrounds, communities, and industries, reflecting Imperial’s commitment to employing a team with diverse skills, experiences, and abilities.

The university’s core values – respect, collaboration, excellence, integrity, and innovation – underpin everything they do, and everyone in the Imperial community is expected to embody these principles in their work and interactions.

🚀 Career Growth Opportunities

Joining the CIRCLE research group at Imperial College London offers exceptional opportunities for career advancement in both academic and industry settings. As a Research Associate, you’ll:

• Develop cutting-edge expertise in a rapidly growing field with applications across multiple sectors
• Build a strong publication record in high-impact journals and conference proceedings
• Establish valuable connections with leading researchers and industry professionals
• Gain experience mentoring junior researchers and managing collaborative projects
• Develop transferable skills applicable to careers in academia, industry R&D, and data science
• Contribute to open-source software development with potential long-term impact

🤝 Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging

Imperial College London is deeply committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive research environment where all members can thrive. The university actively works toward equality of opportunity, eliminating discrimination, and creating inclusive working conditions for everyone. Imperial encourages applications from all backgrounds, communities, and industries, recognizing that diversity strengthens their research capabilities and enhances innovation.

⚖️ Equal Opportunity Statement

Imperial College London is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a culturally diverse community. The university welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.

🏠 Remote Work Policy

This position is designated as on-site only at the South Kensington Campus in London. The role requires regular interaction with other researchers and access to specialized equipment and resources available on campus.

📝 Application Process

1. Submit your online application through the Imperial College London jobs portal
2. Include a comprehensive CV listing all publications
3. Attach a 1-page research statement indicating interesting research issues relating to the position and why your expertise is relevant
4. Selected candidates will be invited for interviews

⏰ Application Deadline

Applications must be submitted by June 4, 2025.

📨 How to Apply

Submit your application through the Imperial College London jobs portal. For informal inquiries related to the position, please contact Dr. Tolga Birdal at t.birdal@imperial.ac.uk. For queries regarding the application process, contact Jamie Perrins at j.perrins@imperial.ac.uk.

Please note that the university reserves the right to close the advert prior to the stated closing date should they receive a high volume of applications. Early submission is therefore advised to avoid disappointment.

🔗 Social Media Links

• LinkedIn
• Twitter
• Facebook

❓ Additional Information

• The job description is not exhaustive, and you may be asked to take on additional duties that align with the key responsibilities mentioned.
• Technical issues during online application can be reported to support.jobs@imperial.ac.uk.
• Additional documents including the Employee Benefits Booklet and detailed job description are available on the application portal.

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