Postdoctoral Associate, Statistics

About the Role

The Department of Statistics at Rice University seeks a Postdoctoral Research Associate to conduct research in statistical learning, with a focus on uncertainty quantification, conformal prediction, and reliable machine learning under distribution shift. This position supports rigorous methodological research addressing the reliability and uncertainty of modern statistical and machine learning methods. The role involves independent and collaborative research, participation in departmental intellectual life, and opportunities for professional development.

Key Responsibilities

• Conducts independent and collaborative research in statistical learning, including uncertainty quantification, conformal prediction, and reliable machine learning under distribution shift.
• Develops new statistical methodology, theory, computational approaches, or related artificial intelligence methods.
• Designs and conducts theoretical and computational studies to evaluate statistical and machine learning methods.
• Analyzes and interprets research findings and communicates results to faculty, collaborators, and the broader research community.
• Prepares manuscripts, technical reports, presentations, and other scholarly materials.
• Presents research through seminars, conferences, colloquia, and other professional venues.
• Participates in the intellectual and scholarly activities of the Department of Statistics.
• Contributes to collaborative research projects and related project activities.
• Participates in professional and career development activities appropriate to the postdoctoral appointment.
• May have an opportunity to teach one course during the academic year, depending on departmental needs and mutual interest.
• Performs all other duties as assigned.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Proficiency in scientific computing using Python, R, or equivalent tools.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree in Statistics, Biostatistics, Mathematics, Computer Science, or a related quantitative field by the time of appointment.
• No additional experience beyond graduate research is required.
• Strong background in statistical theory, machine learning, or related areas.
• Demonstrated interest or experience in statistical methodology, theory, computation, or AI methods.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.

Workplace Location

• Full-time, on-campus position at Rice University Campus.
• Work arrangements may be subject to change per Rice policy 440.

Compensation & Employment Details

• Hiring Range: $60,000–$65,000 annually. Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and relevant research experience.
• Full-time, term-limited position funded by grant, soft and/or restricted funds.
• Continued employment is contingent on the continued availability of funding, ongoing research needs, and satisfactory performance.
• Anticipated start date: Summer or Fall 2027.
• Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
• The PI is open to considering qualified candidates who may require visa sponsorship.