The Department of Mathematics at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville invites applications for one Postdoctoral Research Associate (non-tenure eligible) in the mathematical foundation of Artificial Intelligence (AI). The successful candidate will work on statistical learning using topology and graph theory under the supervision of Dr. Farzana Nasrin.

This is a full-time, 12-month, 100% research-focused appointment beginning in August 2026. The position is renewable for at least one additional year, contingent on annual performance evaluations. The appointee will work on projects at the intersection of applied topology, statistics, and machine learning, contributing to both theoretical advancements and novel frameworks in artificial intelligence.

Required Qualifications

• Education:

  • Ph.D. in Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, Statistics, or a closely related field by the time of appointment

• Experience:

  • Evidence of independent research in one or more areas relevant to mathematical data science

  • Demonstrated ability to publish in peer-reviewed journals

• Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:

  • Strong mathematical and computational background

  • Excellent written and oral communication skills

  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively

Preferred Qualifications

• Education:

  • Ph.D. with a research emphasis in topology, data science, or machine learning

• Experience:

  • Experience working in interdisciplinary research settings

• Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:

  • Familiarity with topological data analysis, machine learning, or AI

  • Proficiency in Python or other scientific programming lanaguages

Work Location

• Knoxville, Tennessee

• This position is onsite

Compensation and Benefits

• Anticipated hiring range: $60,000 - $65,000

• Find more information on UT Benefits here

Application Instructions

For best consideration, applicants should submit the following materials as soon as possible:

• A cover letter describing interest in the position

• A curriculum vitae

• A research statement

• A publication list

Review of applications will occur on a rolling basis, but later applications may be considered.

About The Department

The Department of Mathematics at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville is home to a vibrant community of scholars engaged in a broad range of mathematical research. The department supports strong interdisciplinary connections with fields such as biology, data science, engineering, and computer science, and plays a key role in campus-wide AI and data science initiatives.

• Conduct original research in mathematical AI, especially in statistical learning.

• Collaborate with Professor Nasrin and other interdisciplinary researchers

• Contribute to the preparation of publications and grant proposals

• Participate in academic presentations, seminars, and workshops

• Engage with the broader research community at UT and externally