Postdoctoral Research Associate – AI-Design Lab (Full-Time, Fixed Term to 31 July 2027)
Royal College of Art
Battersea, South West London, United Kingdom
General Description
The Royal College of Art (RCA) invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to join the AI-Design Lab (AiDLab), a pioneering collaborative research initiative between the Royal College of Art and The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, supported by the InnoHK programme. The laboratory combines world-leading expertise in artificial intelligence and design to address major global challenges through interdisciplinary research and innovation.
AiDLab’s research activities are organized across three major interdisciplinary programmes: AI in Fashion Design, AI in Textile and Apparel Quality Control, and AI in Ergonomic Design. This role focuses on the CirculAI Fashion project, an innovative artificial intelligence tool designed to support global fashion brands in reducing environmental impact through more intelligent design decisions. The system integrates AI with technical data generated throughout the entire garment lifecycle to assist design teams in transitioning toward circular and sustainable fashion systems.
The successful candidate will undertake rigorous and collaborative research aligned with the objectives of the AiDLab programme. Responsibilities include contributing to the development of research projects, producing high-quality research outputs, publishing and presenting findings to academic, industry, and public audiences, and working closely with academic, industry, and third-sector partners. The researcher will help manage research activities, contribute to funding proposals, support knowledge exchange initiatives, and assist with the supervision of junior researchers where appropriate.
The position provides the opportunity to work within a vibrant international research environment, engaging with industry partners and contributing to impactful solutions for sustainable design and fashion systems. The role is offered as a full-time, flexible appointment on a fixed-term basis until 31 July 2027 and is based on-site at the RCA Battersea campus.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants should hold a PhD, or be close to completing a PhD, in mathematics, statistics, computer science, or a closely related discipline.
Required expertise/skills
Strong programming skills and experience working with deep learning models, particularly Large Language Models (LLMs)
Demonstrated record of producing high-quality research outputs such as publications or conference presentations
Experience contributing to research projects and reporting on project outcomes
Understanding of research ethics, integrity, and responsible data management practices
Ability to collaborate effectively within interdisciplinary research teams
Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present research to academic, industry, and public audiences
Commitment to the aims of the research centre and project objectives
Desirable skills and experience:
Experience working in collaborative higher-education and industry research projects
Understanding of research funding processes and grant proposal preparation
Interest in interdisciplinary and design-led research approaches involving artificial intelligence
Salary details
£44,693 – £48,269 per year (including London Allowance)
Application Deadline
08 April 2026