AI Research Digital Audit Graduate Programme (Autumn 2026) - Southampton

Grant Thornton LLP; Eastleigh; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading auditing firm in Eastleigh seeks graduates for an innovative digital audit programme focusing on mathematical research and machine learning. This structured three-year programme offers hands-on experience, fully funded professional qualifications, and a supportive network for career development. Ideal for analytical minds passionate about tech and audit transformation.

Benefits

Fully funded professional qualification

Paid study leave

Competitive salary

Private medical insurance

Life assurance

Qualifications

• Passion for mathematics and technology.
• Willingness to learn and adapt.
• Ability to solve complex problems.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research for future audits.
• Collaborate with software developers.
• Create mathematical solutions for common hurdles.

Skills

Basic coding knowledge (Python, SQL, R)

Problem-solving skills

Analytical mindset

Effective communication

Education

Mathematics degree or relevant background

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. All around the world we bring a different experience to our clients. A better experience. One that delivers the expertise they need in a way that goes beyond. Personal, proactive, and agile. That’s Grant Thornton.

Job Description: Real responsibility. Real impact. Right from the start.

Auditors are investigators, problem-solvers, and trusted advisers. They dive deep into how businesses operate, ensuring the numbers tell the real story, and helping organisations stay on track. Think of it as a backstage pass to the business world, where you don’t just observe - you 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 at Grant Thornton have been harnessing data to automate existing audit tests and create entirely new audit tests. We take pride in quality across the firm and have made a significant investment in this area - it is at the heart of everything we do.

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 strong 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 us explore this under-researched area and see your mathematical musings translated 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 the 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 building well-documented, self-contained software libraries that bring your ideas to life.
• Grow your mathematical expertise dive into new fields and stay current with cutting-edge research.
• Collaborate across the lab - work 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 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 of your choice, provided it is relevant to the role. Typically, we expect graduates on this programme to study towards a Level 7 Applied Data Analytics Apprenticeship. More information on this can be found 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've got a flexible approach to academic entry requirements, and we'll consider these alongside your strengths and motivations. We're looking for 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 taking this into consideration before applying, as you will be required to study in your spare time outside of your 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 organise your time well 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.