Research Assistant - Language Technologies and AI (Pharos-CY Project)

CYENS Centre of Excellence

RESPONSIBILITIES Department: Research / DeepCamera No. Of Positions: 1 Reporting Line: Research Team Leader  Contract Type: An initial one-year fixed term employment contract will be offered with the possibility for renewal. Full Time basis. Duration of project: 36 months (September 2026 – August 2029) Location: Nicosia, Cyprus Indicative Annual Gross Salary Range: €18,000 – €23,000 The salary will be determined based on qualifications, experience, and suitability for the role.  Preferred Start Date: July 2026, or as soon as possible. Application Deadline: 19th of June 2026. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. About the project / position: The successful candidate will work in the area of AI-based underwater image analysis and marine species detection. Marine biodiversity monitoring currently relies on large volumes of underwater video footage that must be manually analysed, a process that is time-consuming and prone to variability. Advances in artificial intelligence and computer vision provide the opportunity to automate species detection and classification, significantly improving efficiency and consistency in marine ecological assessments. In this role, the successful candidate will develop, train, and validate deep learning models for automated detection and classification of marine species from underwater imagery and video datasets. The position is part of the EU-funded ATLANTIS project (I3–ERDF), developing underwater technologies for marine monitoring and sustainable blue-economy applications. The successful candidates will have the opportunity to conduct fundamental and/or applied research in the aforementioned areas. Where applicable, candidates may also participate in the preparation of project reports and deliverables, research proposals for funding, software development, and travel abroad for dissemination activities. Furthermore, successful candidates will be encouraged to publish/present their research results in prestigious international conferences and journals. Key Responsibilities: 1. Perform data curation, preprocessing, and quality control of underwater imagery and video datasets, in collaboration with marine experts 2. Design, train, and evaluate deep learning models for automated detection and classification of marine species  3. Develop computer vision pipelines for video processing and model inference  4. Evaluate model performance using quantitative metrics  5. Contribute to the integration of AI-based detection models into operational biodiversity monitoring workflows and data analysis pipelines  6. Collaborate with project partners and contribute to the preparation of deliverables, technical reports, and dissemination materials  7. Contribute to other activities of the research group and the Centre YOUR PROFILE Skills and Competencies The ideal candidate will be: 1. Ability to work independently, meet deadlines, and collaborate effectively within an interdisciplinary team  2. Strong organisational and problem-solving skills  3. Self-motivated with the ability to take initiative and work independently.   4. Strong organizational, communication, presentation, and negotiation skills, having the ability to deal confidently and politely with enquiries.   5. Very good analytical skills coupled with attention to detail.   6. Dynamic, adaptable, hands-on and results driven. 7. A team player with an ability to work independently and under pressure.  8. High levels of commitment, energy, and drive. 9. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. GENERAL QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS Key requirements Essential Requirements 1. M.Sc. / Ph.D. in Computer Vision, Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science, Data Science, Machine Learning, Robotics, or a closely related field, or in related area.  2. 3 years of relevant experience required  3. Demonstrated experience in applied research in artificial intelligence or computer vision  4. Experience in experimental design, model training, and quantitative evaluation of machine learning systems  5. Evidence of scientific writing and dissemination (e.g. peer-reviewed journal publications, conference presentations) 6. Strong programming skills in Python, with experience using deep learning frameworks (e.g. PyTorch or TensorFlow)  7. Experience in computer vision and image or video analysis  8. Language requirements: Excellent written and oral English-language skills will be required.   9. For non-EU applicants a work permit will be required Desirable Qualifications The following will be considered an advantage: 1. Experience with object detection or image segmentation models (e.g. YOLO, Mask R-CNN, Detectron2, etc.)  2. Experience working with large image or video datasets and annotation tools (e.g. CVAT)  3. Familiarity with Linux-based computing environments and version control systems (e.g. Git)  4. Experience with data augmentation, transfer learning, or domain adaptation techniques  5. Prior experience with environmental monitoring, marine datasets, or remote sensing imagery 6. Previous research experience and high impact research publications on relevant topics (a requirement for PhD holders/an advantage for non-PhD holders).  WHY US? What CYENS Offers CYENS offers the opportunity to work at the forefront of research and innovation within a dynamic, multidisciplinary, and international environment. Researchers benefit from collaboration with leading academic and industry partners, participation in high-impact national and European projects, access to state-of-the-art infrastructure, and opportunities for professional growth and scientific excellence. APPLICATION PROCESS Application process  For full consideration, interested applicants should submit the following items via the online application form and clearly indicate the position title in their application:   1. Full CV (including contact details). 2. Cover letter outlining:  1. your suitability for the role 2. your motivation for applying;  3. your earliest available start date, part-time or full-time availability 4. Research Group (s) of interest in order of priority 5. contact details of two referees.  3. Copies of academic transcripts  4. Description of their academic and research experiences as well as any relevant industrial / innovation / entrepreneurship experience, where applicable (500 words maximum). 5. Two (2) representative publications (if applicable). 6. Two (2) representative innovation outcomes / products (if applicable).   Important Information * Incomplete applications will not be considered.  * Applicants who have previously applied for a position at CYENS are required to submit a new application.  * All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence.  * CYENS Centre of Excellence is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from candidates worldwide.  CONTACT DETAILS For general enquiries, applicants may contact the HR Department at vacancies@cyens.org.cy.

CYENS Centre of Excellence

RESPONSIBILITIES Department: Innovation / Education and Training  No. Of Positions: 1 Full-Time Researcher  Reporting Line: Education and Training Manager  Contract Type: Fixed Term project-based contract. An initial one-year employment contract will be offered with the possibility for renewal. Duration of project: 48 months (01/05/2026 – 31/05/2030) Location: Nicosia, Cyprus Indicative Annual Gross Salary Range: €18000 – €30,000. The salary will be determined based on qualifications, experience, and suitability for the role.  Preferred Start Date: August 2026, or as soon as possible. Application Deadline: (2 weeks) 12th of July 2026. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.  About the project / position: CYENS Centre of Excellence is seeking a highly motivated Research Assistant to join the Education & Training team within the Virtual Worlds Academy of Skills (ViWAS), a large-scale European initiative funded by the Digital Europe Programme. PhD candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. The successful candidate will contribute to research and development activities at the intersection of Virtual Worlds, immersive technologies (XR), digital skills, education, and workforce development. The position offers an excellent opportunity to gain and further develop research experience while actively participating in a major European project involving leading academic institutions, research centres, industry partners, and policy stakeholders across Europe. The candidate will work closely with the ViWAS coordination team and international experts, contributing to the development of innovative frameworks, research studies, educational programmes, and evidence-based policy recommendations supporting the adoption of Virtual Worlds across multiple sectors. Candidates are expected to demonstrate research engagement appropriate to their career stage, including experience with literature reviews, research design, data collection and analysis, academic writing, project deliverables, presentations, and/or publications. Key Responsibilities: The Research Assistant will be involved in aspects of the following: * Conduct quantitative and qualitative research related to digital skills, Virtual Worlds, XR technologies, education and future workforce needs. * Contribute to the design, development, validation, and continuous improvement of the ViWAS Competence and Qualification Framework (CQF). * Perform literature reviews, and policy analyses related to skills development and emerging technologies. * Support research design, data collection, analysis, interpretation, and reporting activities. * Contribute to the preparation of scientific publications, conference papers, project deliverables, and research reports, and policy-oriented outputs. * Participate in the design, piloting, evaluation, and continuous improvement of educational programmes, curricula and micro-credentials for Higher Education, Vocational Education and Training (VET), and lifelong learning. * Collaborate with project partners, researchers, educational institutions, industry representatives, and policy stakeholders across Europe. * Support dissemination, communication, and stakeholder engagement activities. GENERAL QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS Key requirements Essential Requirements: 1. MSc/MA  or PhD in Education, Educational Technology, Learning Sciences, Human-Computer Interaction, or another relevant field aligned with the responsibilities and activities of the position. 2. Knowledge of qualitative and/or quantitative research methods. 3. Ability to conduct literature reviews, collect and analyse research data, and synthesise findings. 4. Excellent written and oral communication skills in English. 5. Familiarity with Virtual, Augmented, and Extended Reality (VR/AR/XR) technologies, applications, and devices. 6. Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within an international and multidisciplinary environment. 7. Language requirements: Excellent written and oral English-language skills will be required.   8. For non-EU applicants a work permit will be required   Research/Academic Requirements:  * Experience conducting literature reviews and synthesizing research findings.  * Experience presenting academic or professional work in seminars, workshops, conferences, or educational settings will be considered an advantage.  * Evidence of interest in research related to Virtual Worlds, immersive technologies (VR/AR/XR), digital skills, educational innovation, learning technologies, or emerging technologies.  * Experience contributing to research deliverables, reports, publications, or project outputs will be considered an advantage. * Participation in national or European research and innovation projects is desirable but not essential. Desirable Qualifications The following will be considered an advantage: * Experience in EU-funded projects. * Experience in educational technology, XR technologies, digital skills development, or curriculum design. * Experience in preparing research reports, policy briefs, project deliverables, or academic publications. * Familiarity with European education, skills, innovation, or digital policy initiatives. * Experience in higher education, vocational education and training (VET), or lifelong learning contexts. WHY US? What CYENS Offers CYENS offers the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge European research and innovation in a dynamic, multidisciplinary, and international environment. The successful candidate will work alongside leading academic institutions, research centres, industry partners, and policy stakeholders across Europe, contributing to the development of innovative solutions that shape the future of Virtual Worlds, digital skills, and education. The position provides valuable hands-on research experience, opportunities for professional and academic development, exposure to high-impact European projects, and access to a collaborative environment that fosters learning, innovation, and scientific excellence. APPLICATION PROCESS Application process  For full consideration, interested applicants should submit the following items via the online application form and clearly indicate the position title in their application:   1. Full CV (including contact details). 2. Cover letter outlining:  1. your suitability for the role 2. your motivation for applying;  3. contact details of two referees.  3. Copies of academic transcripts  4. Description of their academic and research experiences as well as any relevant industrial / innovation / entrepreneurship experience, where applicable (500 words maximum). 5. Two (2) representative publications (if applicable). 6. Two (2) representative innovation outcomes / products (if applicable). Important Information * Incomplete applications will not be considered.  * Applicants who have previously applied for a position at CYENS are required to submit a new application.  * All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence.  * CYENS Centre of Excellence is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from candidates worldwide.  CONTACT DETAILS Enquiries  For general enquiries, applicants may contact the HR Department at vacancies@cyens.org.cy.

CYENS Centre of Excellence

RESPONSIBILITIES Department: Research / Research Office  No. Of Positions: 1 (one) Administrator Reporting Line: Head of Research Office Supervisory duties: May supervise one or more Project Officer personnel Contract type: An initial two-year employment contract will be offered with the possibility for renewal. Full Time basis Location: CYENS Centre of Excellence, Nicosia, Cyprus Indicative Annual Gross Salary Range: €20,000 – €25,000. The salary will be determined based on qualifications, experience, and suitability for the role.  Probation Period: 6 (six) months Preferred Start Date: August 2026, or as soon thereafter. Application Deadline: 17th of July 2026. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.   The Opportunity  The Research Office plays a central role in supporting the Centre’s research activity, including proposal preparation, project implementation, reporting, internal monitoring, research performance analysis and coordination with researchers, project managers and administrative departments. As CYENS continues to expand its portfolio of competitive European and national research projects, the Centre is looking for a motivated professional who can strengthen the operational capacity of the Research Office and contribute to the smooth implementation of its activities. The successful candidate will support the Head of the Research Office and the wider research management team in maintaining accurate data, monitoring project-related information, supporting internal systems, preparing reports and assisting with the administrative, personnel allocations and financial monitoring of funded projects. Key Responsibilities: The successful candidate will be expected to carry out the following duties:   Research Office Data Management * Maintain and update internal databases, trackers and filing systems. * Prepare data extracts, tables and summaries for management, reporting and decision-making. * Support the improvement and standardisation of Research Office workflows, templates and procedures. Internal Systems and Administrative Support * Enter, update and verify data in CYENS internal systems, including time management and project monitoring tools. * Maintain shared calendars, Research Office records and key project documentation. * Support the filing of Grant Agreements, reports, templates and administrative records. * Assist with meeting preparation, minutes, action lists and general Research Office administration. Research Performance Reporting * Support periodic reporting on Research Department and Research Office performance. * Collect and analyse data on proposals, funded projects, success rates, funding, project activity and workload. * Prepare tables, charts, dashboards and short summaries for management reporting. Project Financial and Budget Monitoring Support * Check project-related expenses against approved budgets and available balances. * Review travel, purchase, equipment and service requests for completeness and budget eligibility. * Liaise with Project Managers, HR, Finance and the Research Office on budget and personnel allocation matters. * Maintain budget monitoring files and flag overspending risks, missing information or inconsistencies. YOUR PROFILE Skills and Competencies The ideal candidate will have: 1. Excellent organisational, administrative and communication skills. 2. Strong attention to detail and accuracy in data entry and document management. 3. Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines, both independently and as part of a team. 4. Professional attitude, discretion and reliability. GENERAL QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS Key requirements Essential Requirements 1. University Degree (Bachelor’s Degree or Degree of a level equivalent to Bachelor’s Degree) or Diploma or Certificate or other study title or qualifications in Business Administration, Accounting, Finance or another relevant field. 2. Very good command of Microsoft Excel and other Microsoft Office tools. 3. Ability to work with databases, spreadsheets, online platforms and digital filing systems. 4. Good understanding of budgets, financial data and administrative procedures. 5. Language requirements: Excellent written and oral English-language skills are essential.    Desired Qualifications and Experience The following will be considered an advantage: * Previous experience in a research organisation, university, Centre of Excellence or EU-funded project environment. * Experience with EU or national funded projects, project administration, reporting or financial monitoring. * Experience with timesheet systems, project management systems, ERP platforms, dashboards or performance statistics. * Knowledge of Greek. WHY US? What CYENS Offers CYENS offers the opportunity to work in a dynamic and growing research and innovation environment, supporting the implementation of national and European research projects with significant scientific, technological and societal impact.   The successful candidate will become part of a multidisciplinary Centre of Excellence and will contribute directly to the professionalisation and efficient operation of research management and project support services at CYENS.   The position offers exposure to European research funding programmes, project management processes, internal performance reporting and the operational management of a diverse research portfolio.   APPLICATION PROCESS Application process  For full consideration, interested applicants should submit the following items via the online application form and clearly indicate the position title in their application:   1. Full CV (including contact details). 2. Cover letter outlining:  1. your suitability for the role;  2. your motivation for applying; and  3. your earliest available start date. 3.  contact details of two referees.  Important Information * Incomplete applications will not be considered.  * Applicants who have previously applied for a position at CYENS are required to submit a new application.  * All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence.  * CYENS Centre of Excellence is an equal opportunity employer. Applications are encouraged from all qualified candidates irrespective of gender, age, disability, nationality, racial or ethnic origin, religion or belief, or any other personal characteristic. CONTACT DETAILS Enquiries  For general enquiries, applicants may contact the HR Department at vacancies@cyens.org.cy.