AI Innovation Lead (KTP Associate)

University of Sheffield; Chesterfield; On-site; GBP 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Personal development budget

KTP training

Job summary

The University of Sheffield is seeking a research associate to help translate cutting-edge AI and computer vision research into practical welding and fabrication solutions. You will work at the interface of academia and industry, collaborating with Power System Services to develop AI-driven weld fabrication and control platforms.

You will bridge academic research and industrial application, using BIM/IFC digital twins to improve planning, decision-making and productivity while delivering robust,

Qualifications

• PhD in computer vision or equivalent industry experience.
• Hands-on experience deploying high-performance AI solutions.
• Ability to translate research into practical applications.

Responsibilities

• Develop an intelligent weld fabrication and control platform.
• Integrate AI with BIM and IFC digital twins for planning and productivity.
• Train models, prototype software, and test solutions in industrial settings.
• Support adoption of AI-driven methodologies and communicate findings.

Skills

AI

Computer vision

Machine learning

Imaging techniques

Education

PhD in computer vision

Tools

BIM

IFC

Job description

Are you an experienced AI or computer vision professional who enjoys solving complex challenges and turning innovative research into practical solutions? Join us as a research associate and help shape the future of intelligent welding and fabrication.

The University of Sheffield offers a unique opportunity to accelerate your career through a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) with Power System Services. Working at the interface of interdisciplinary academic research and industrial innovation, you will translate cutting‑edge technologies into commercially valuable solutions while gaining experience within one of the UK’s leading research‑intensive universities.

About the role

You will combine your expertise in AI and computer vision with your passion for innovation to develop an intelligent weld fabrication and control platform. Integrating advanced AI technologies with Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) digital twins, you will help improve fabrication planning, decision‑making and productivity.

You will be based primarily at Power System Services, working directly with the company to develop and implement AI‑driven solutions to real‑world welding and fabrication challenges. You will also maintain close links with the University of Sheffield, attending weekly meetings with your Academic Supervisor and the university team to discuss progress, address technical challenges and ensure alignment with the project’s objectives.

You will investigate and develop advanced machine learning and imaging techniques to address complex welding and fabrication challenges. From designing algorithms and building software prototypes to training AI models and testing solutions under realistic industrial conditions, you will ensure your work delivers robust, efficient and commercially viable outcomes.

You will support the adoption of AI‑driven methodologies, demonstrate how emerging technologies can enhance established workflows, communicate technical findings and contribute to research reports and presentations. You will also identify opportunities for innovation, intellectual property and commercial exploitation.

This is an exciting opportunity to bridge the gap between academic research and industrial application, develop your technical and commercial expertise, and contribute to the future of intelligent fabrication and digital engineering.

You will also benefit from a Personal Development Budget of £4k and a KTP Residential Training Experience at Ashorne Hill.

About you

You will have a PhD in computer vision or a related discipline, or equivalent industry experience. With hands‑on experience developing and deploying high‑performance technical solutions, you will be confident tackling challenges and translating emerging technologies into practical applications.

You will be collaborative, innovative and results‑driven, with the ability to manage competing priorities, take ownership of your work and deliver project milestones. Your enthusiasm for applied research and industrial innovation will help you develop solutions that deliver measurable value.

Why join us?

The University of Sheffield offers a supportive working environment where diverse backgrounds, abilities and perspectives contribute to world‑class research and teaching.

We offer a range of benefits, including generous annual leave, the option to purchase additional leave, a competitive pension scheme, flexible working, professional development and wellbeing support, and retail discounts.

We are committed to an inclusive community where everyone can thrive, and diversity strengthens our research, teaching and student experience.