AI Research Digital Audit Graduate Programme (Autumn 2026) - Milton Keynes

Grant Thornton LLP; Milton Keynes; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading audit and advisory firm in Milton Keynes is seeking graduates for a structured three-year programme focused on mathematical research and technology adoption. The role involves collaborating with software developers, leading research initiatives, and contributing to innovative auditing solutions. Candidates from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply for this exciting opportunity to shape the future of audit.

Benefits

Fully funded professional qualification

Paid study leave

Competitive salary and benefits

Exclusive discounts on shopping and wellbeing services

Opportunities to give back through volunteering

Qualifications

• A basic understanding of coding languages such as Python, SQL, or R is helpful, but not essential.
• A mathematics degree is preferred, but diverse backgrounds are welcomed.
• Willingness to learn and solve complex problems is crucial.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Tools strand by understanding developer needs.
• Learn and apply Python by building software libraries.
• Collaborate across the lab and work with the lead researcher.

Skills

Curiosity

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Collaboration

Basic coding knowledge

Education

Mathematics degree

Other relevant qualifications

Tools

Python

SQL

R

Job description

Overview

The UK member firms of Grant Thornton are part of a global network of independent audit, tax and advisory firms. We’re a team of independent thinkers who put quality, inclusion and integrity first. We bring a different experience to our clients—personal, proactive, and agile—delivering the expertise they need in a way that goes beyond.

Job Description

Real responsibility. Real impact. Right from the start.

Auditors are investigators, problem-solvers, and trusted advisers. They study how businesses operate to ensure the numbers tell the real story and help organisations stay on track. You won’t just observe—you’ll make a difference.

At Grant Thornton, we’re looking for actively curious, purposefully driven, and candid but kind individuals who want to shape the future of business—not follow it.

The Digital Audit Team has harnessed data to automate existing audit tests and create new tests. We invest in this area because it is at the heart of what we do, delivering quality across the firm.

To drive the next wave of transformation, we have launched a brand-new Research Lab within the Digital Audit Team. This lab is a hub for cutting-edge mathematical research with a focus on machine learning and emerging technologies. It’s an exciting opportunity to shape the future of audit through bold ideas and smart solutions. You can help translate mathematical ideas into immediate value for the firm.

Our three-year audit graduate programme is your launchpad to a meaningful career, a professional qualification, and a chance to make a real impact on UK businesses.

What you’ll do

The Research Lab three-year graduate programme is designed to give you excellent experience in three key strands:

• Research - Ambitious, long-term research projects, creating the novel mathematics that will be the backbone of future audits.
• Consultations - Working alongside software developers to ensure that mathematical best practice is threaded through all our apps.
• Tools - Creating mathematical solutions to common hurdles and writing software libraries to make these solutions available to the software developers.

You'll learn by doing, with plenty of support along the way.

• Own the Tools strand by taking the lead in understanding developer needs and designing smart mathematical solutions.
• Learn and apply Python by building well-documented, self-contained software libraries that bring your ideas to life.
• Grow your mathematical expertise by diving into new fields and staying current with cutting-edge research.
• Collaborate across the lab by working closely with the lead researcher on both the Research and Consultations strands.
• Shape the lab’s future by helping to define the culture, practices, and direction of the Research Lab in its early stages.
• Make a real impact by using mathematics to enhance audit quality and improve the working lives of our auditors.
• Study with support with dedicated time to study and a team behind you as you work towards your ACA qualification.

While we have preferred study routes, we’re open to exploring other qualifications, accreditations or apprenticeships relevant to the role. Typically, graduates on this programme study towards a Level 7 Applied Data Analytics Apprenticeship. More information is available here.

Who we’re looking for

We’re looking for curious, analytical minds who are passionate about technology. You don’t need to have all the answers right now, but you do need the drive to seek them out.

• Skills: A basic understanding of coding languages such as Python, SQL, or R is helpful, but not essential — a willingness to learn is key.
• Mindset: You enjoy solving complex problems, can work collaboratively in a small team, and thrive in an environment that encourages innovation.
• Education: While a mathematics degree is preferred, we also welcome those from diverse backgrounds who have a passion and aptitude for mathematics.

We have a flexible approach to academic entry requirements and will consider them alongside your strengths and motivations. We’re seeking people who want to contribute, spark fresh ideas, and go beyond expectations.

• Curious minds who explore ideas and ask thoughtful questions.
• Innovative problem solvers who think creatively, spot patterns, and turn data into meaningful insights.
• Collaborative partners who work respectfully and build trust with others.
• Effective communicators who listen, adapt, and express ideas clearly.
• Self-leaders who manage and flex their time, mindset, and energy effectively.
• Career-minded contributors who take initiative and are motivated to grow.

What you’ll get

Kickstart your career with a structured three-year programme designed to give you real-world experience from day one.

• Fully funded professional qualification, including paid study leave, expert tuition, and all course fees covered.
• Technology to support your learning and client work.
• Dedicated support network, from experienced managers and mentors to college tutors who’ll guide you every step of the way.
• Our approach to how we work helps you balance life, learning, and work.
• Exclusive discounts on shopping, gyms, and wellbeing services.
• Opportunities to give back through mentoring, volunteering, or fundraising initiatives.
• Competitive salary and benefits package, including:
• Extra holiday options (including flexible bank holidays and the option to purchase additional holidays)
• Life assurance
• Private medical insurance.

What we expect from you

As part of your training with us, you’ll be provided with study leave to support you with completing your professional qualification. Completing a professional qualification is a substantial commitment and it’s worth considering before applying, as you will be required to study in your spare time outside of working hours. You’ll also be provided with study leave in the run up to your exams. You’ll need to be focused, committed, and organised to balance all the requirements of being a trainee.

Join the firm that’s shaping the accountants of the future. We’re growing fast, and we want you to grow with us. With digital-first innovation and an inclusive culture that powers progress, this is your chance to shape what’s next.

This isn’t just a graduate scheme. It’s the start of something bigger.