Research Lead, Machine Learning for Environment and Sustainability

Research Lead, Machine Learning for Environment and Sustainability

The Alan Turing Institute
Named in honour of Alan Turing, the Institute is a place for inspiring, exciting work and we need passionate, sharp, and innovative people who want to use their skills to contribute to our mission to make great leaps in data science and AI research to change the world for the better.

Background
Currently, Turing is undergoing a restructuring, moving towards a challenge-led model with three Grand Challenges (Environment & Sustainability, Health, Defence & National Security), underpinned by cross-cutting Fundamental Research. This new Turing 2.0 model focuses on world-class science and innovation and aims to generate high-quality research and translate it into real-world impact and deployment.

In the Environment & Sustainability Grand Challenge, we will use machine learning and AI as a transformative technology to benefit planet and people. Initially, the Grand Challenge will centre around using machine learning and AI for:

1. Weather modelling and forecasting (e.g., data assimilation, forecasts, downscaling, end-to-end forecasting).
2. Sea-ice modelling.
3. Modelling and forecasting of renewables, e.g., wind/solar.
4. Nuclear fusion.

We are seeking highly skilled, experienced Research Leads for these areas with expertise in machine learning, AI, statistics, and one of the four application domains specified above.

The Research Lead will be key to delivering internationally leading research in machine learning for the research areas listed above. This role will be part of the Environment & Sustainability Grand Challenge, and you will be reporting to the mission lead and work closely with other Senior Research Associates, PhD students, and interns within the same area. You will be required to manage a small group of Senior Research Associates and other early-career members of the team.

Main duties:

• Play a leading role in undertaking high-quality research, actively contributing, and steering the broader research aims of the Environment & Sustainability Grand Challenge.
• Manage and lead a team of researchers and professional staff to develop and deliver high-quality high-impact research.
• Ensure research project delivery against objectives within allocated budgets and timeframes and ensure efficient management of resources.
• Present, disseminate and explain our work at meetings/events and contribute to both the internal and external visibility of the Institute.
• Take responsibility for driving collaboration with academic experts and broader research partners.

Person Specification
• A PhD (or equivalent experience and/or qualifications) in a relevant area, e.g., machine learning, AI, computer science, mathematics, statistics, physics, engineering, environmental science.
• Experience in machine learning, programming.
• Substantial research experience in modelling of complex environmental and/or sustainability systems e.g. weather, sea ice, renewables, nuclear fusion.
• Evidence of high-quality publication(s) in a relevant field.
• Previous experience of line management and supervising more junior colleagues.
• Proactive approach to managing stakeholders and their requirements and identifying opportunities for collaboration.

Terms and Conditions
This post is offered on a fixed term basis for 3 years. Part-time (0.8 FTE) applications can be considered. The annual salary is £68,135 to £73,813, plus excellent benefits, including flexible working and family friendly policies.

The Alan Turing Institute is based at the British Library, in the heart of London’s Knowledge Quarter. The Turing operates a hybrid model. We would ideally like the successful candidate to be in our office (London) 3 days per week.

Application procedure
Please see our jobs portal for full details on how to apply.

Equality Diversity and Inclusion
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 adjustments@turing.ac.uk to find out how we can assist you.