Research Assistant / Research Associate (Fixed Term)
University of Cambridge – Department of Computer Science and Technology
Location: Cambridge, United Kingdom
General Description:
The University of Cambridge invites applications for a Research Assistant / Research Associate (Fixed Term) position within the Department of Computer Science and Technology. This role offers an opportunity to contribute to the TESSERA project, which has developed a globally significant foundation model for Earth observation that processes satellite imagery at 10-metre resolution worldwide.
The successful candidate will contribute to advanced research at the intersection of computer vision, deep learning, and environmental science. The role focuses on conducting original research related to anomaly detection, change detection, and semantic interpretation of remote sensing imagery while extending and enhancing the TESSERA platform.
The position involves working within a highly collaborative academic environment that supports fundamental computer science research and interdisciplinary innovation. The Department of Computer Science and Technology has a strong international reputation and fosters open collaboration, enabling researchers to pursue ideas that can transform computing both within and beyond academia.
The selected candidate will work alongside a team of researchers and collaborators, contributing to the development and application of advanced machine learning techniques for large-scale satellite image analysis. Responsibilities also include conducting independent research, supporting project objectives, and contributing to the advancement of the research programme.
This is a fixed-term appointment with funding available for two years in the first instance. Appointment at Research Associate level is dependent on holding a PhD; candidates who have submitted their PhD thesis but have not yet been awarded the degree may be appointed at Research Assistant level and promoted to Research Associate upon successful completion of the PhD. The successful candidate will receive an additional 2.5% supplement to their pay in addition to the base salary.
The University actively promotes equality, diversity, and inclusion and welcomes applications from individuals from all backgrounds. The University also has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the United Kingdom.
Eligibility Criteria:
PhD (or near completion) in Computer Science, Computer Vision, Remote Sensing, or a closely related discipline, or equivalent research experience.
Candidates without a completed PhD may be appointed at Research Assistant level and will transition to Research Associate upon award of the PhD.
Demonstrated experience relevant to machine learning, computer vision, or Earth observation research.
Required Expertise/Skills:
Strong expertise in deep learning, computer vision, and image analysis.
Demonstrated experience working with remote sensing or Earth observation data.
Proficiency in Python and deep learning frameworks such as PyTorch.
Experience with large-scale computing environments.
Familiarity with hyperspectral imagery, channel-adaptive methods, or zero-shot and cross-modality approaches in remote sensing is desirable.
Ability to conduct independent research and collaborate effectively within interdisciplinary research teams.
Salary Details:
£33,002 – £46,049 per year, depending on qualifications and experience, with an additional 2.5% salary supplement.
Application Deadline:
8 March 2026