We are looking for a Senior Research Associate or Research Associate to join the Fundamental Research (FR) team to develop and deploy cutting-edge AI techniques, centred around our mission to develop AI for Physical Systems. We are developing foundational theory, methods and tools to advance the state-of-the-art of the use of AI to model, predict and control physical systems. We work closely with the science and innovation priorities to operationalise the technologies developed to create substantial real-world impact.
We’re looking for someone who has expertise across one or more areas of fundamental AI, including generative AI, statistical AI, spatio-temporal modelling, physics-informed AI, AI for science, geometric AI, and/or with experience in modelling physical systems.
ROLE PURPOSE
The primary purpose of the role is to conduct internationally leading research, and the postholder will be part of the Turing Institute’s Fundamental Research (FR) strategic priority area. The Senior / Research Associate will be part of a collaborative, multidisciplinary team of researchers and research engineers, and will be expected to engage with internal and external stakeholders and collaborators to support delivery of the research.
The postholder will lead on and work closely with other researchers and team members on various Fundamental Research activities, and more broadly in support of other Science and Innovation priorities at the Turing.
HOW YOU WILL MAKE AN IMPACT
- Publish and disseminate high-quality research papers and publications detailing research outputs and project case-studies.
- Communicate or present research outputs to diverse stakeholders, through conferences, events, meetings, and press opportunities as appropriate.
- Adhere to and promote principles of reproducible and ethical data science and ensure secure handling of data and health and safety in all aspects of work.
- Undertake high-quality research, actively contributing to the research aims of the AI for Physical Systems mission and the broader Fundamental Research area.
- Engage with stakeholders to ensure that research outcomes can be deployed in the real world.
Additional duties for Senior RA
- Define the research direction in collaboration with Principal Investigators (PIs).
- Be a point of contact, supporting PIs in engaging with stakeholders.
- Take the lead on writing up findings as they emerge, producing and developing reports, and developing publications in peer reviewed journals, in collaboration with the research team.
- Lead on the preparation of proposals and applications to external bodies, e.g., for funding and contractual purposes.
- Manage and/or provide leadership and mentorship of junior team members.
ABOUT YOU
- A solid background in statistical machine learning and/or scientific machine learning, with specific experience in one or more of the following: probabilistic and generative modelling (e.g. flow matching, denoising diffusion models), neural operators, surrogate modelling, uncertainty quantification for ML models, conformal prediction, the application of ML modelling to physical systems.
- A PhD (or equivalent experience and/or qualifications) in a relevant area which will include machine learning, AI, computer science, mathematics, statistics, physics, engineering or similar inter-disciplinary subjects.
- Experience in developing research software codes and libraries (in Python or Julia)
- Track record of the ability to initiate, develop and deliver high-quality research aligned with the mission’s research strategy, appropriate to career stage.
- Evidence of high-quality publication(s) in a relevant field commensurate with your career stage
- Commitment to EDI principles and to the Organisation values
Additional Senior RA expectations:
- Ability to negotiate and influence others
- Demonstrable experience of leading research projects
- Ability to carry out research independently and take the lead on writing up findings as they emerge
- Ability to take the lead on research direction in collaboration with the PIs
- Previous experience overseeing, supervising or mentoring more junior colleagues’ work
Please see the job description for a full breakdown of the role and person specification.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE
If you are interested in this opportunity, please click the apply button. You will need to register on the applicant portal and complete the application form including your CV and covering letter. If you have questions about the role or would like to apply using a different format, please contact us at [email protected].
The covering letter (Max. 2 pages) should address:
- Which role you are applying for and why you are applying for this position
- How you qualify for this position (see criteria under “Person Specification”)
- Publication list (if not covered in CV, can be in addition to the 2-page cover letter)
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
This full-time post is offered on a fixed term basis for 2 years (possibility of extension, dependent on funding).The annual salary range is £45,505 - £51,465 for Research Associate level / £57,000 - £58,482 for Senior Research Associate level. Our offers include excellent benefits, including flexible working and family friendly policies, Employee-only benefits guide | The Alan Turing Institute
Candidates who have not yet been officially awarded their PhD will be appointed as Research Assistant at a salary of £42,593 per annum.
The Alan Turing Institute is based at the British Library, in the heart of London’s Knowledge Quarter. We expect staff to come to our office at least 4 days per month. Some roles may require more days in the office; the hiring manager will be able to confirm this during the interview.
EQUALITY, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION
We value diversity of background, experience, and perspective, and are proud to be an inclusive employer. We warmly encourage applications from all backgrounds, particularly from groups currently under-represented in our sector. If you feel passionate about this role but don’t meet every single requirement, please apply – we recognise that great candidates may bring strengths beyond the criteria listed.
We are committed to making sure our recruitment process is accessible and inclusive. This includes making reasonable adjustments for candidates who have a disability or long-term condition. Please contact us at [email protected] to advise us how we can assist you.