Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) Programme Manager

UNIVERSITY OF SURREY; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious UK university is seeking a CDT Programme Manager to lead the operations of a UKRI-funded Centre for Doctoral Training in AI for Digital Media Inclusion. The role involves strategic planning, collaboration with stakeholders, and a commitment to equitable opportunities for researchers. This is an exciting chance to shape inclusive AI research and influence future technologies.

Benefits

Relocation assistance

Flexible working options

Access to campus leisure facilities

Comprehensive family-friendly benefits

Qualifications

• Significant experience in programme/project management, ideally in research or higher education.
• Thrives in collaborative, cross-institutional environments.
• Proactive attitude driven by enthusiasm for AI and creative technologies.

Responsibilities

• Lead, plan, and deliver operations across partner universities.
• Serve as the point of contact for PhD researchers and industry collaborators.
• Align efforts with Surrey’s mission in People-Centred AI.

Skills

Programme/project management

Communication

Collaboration in complex environments

Commitment to inclusivity

Job description

Offer Description

Are you passionate about inclusive innovation, strategic leadership, and the transformative potential of AI in digital media? If so, we would love to hear from you.

The Surrey Institute for People-Centred AI (PAI) is seeking an exceptional CDT Programme Manager to lead the delivery and operations of the UKRI-funded Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) in AI for Digital Media Inclusion. This dynamic role is central to empowering the next generation of PhD researchers who aim to build inclusive AI technologies that reflect and serve the needs of all people.

About the Role:

• Lead, plan, and deliver all operational and strategic activities across our two partner universities, ensuring high standards and responsible governance and accountability throughout.
• Serve as the first point of contact for a wide range of stakeholders – PhD researchers, academic colleagues, and industry collaborators.
• Work closely with the CDT leadership and the PAI Director of Strategy to align efforts with Surrey’s mission in People-Centred AI.

About You:

• Thrives in complex, collaborative, cross‑institutional environments.
• Brings significant experience in programme/project management, ideally in research, innovation, or higher education.
• Communicates with clarity, empathy and professionalism.
• Is committed to creating equitable, inclusive, and accessible opportunities for researchers, colleagues, and communities.
• Has a proactive attitude driven by enthusiasm for AI and creative technologies.

WHY JOIN US?

At the Surrey Institute for People-Centred AI, we believe in a future whereAI works for everyone.

This role offers a unique opportunity to influence how the next wave of AI research contributes to a fairer, more inclusive society.

Apply now and help us build a future where AI-enabled digital media is reflective, responsible, and truly inclusive.

Applications closing date: 1 December 2025

We welcome applications from people from all backgrounds, identities and lived experiences.

Further details and Benefits

• Relocation assistance (where appropriate)
• Flexible working options, including blended home/campus arrangements
• Access to outstanding campus leisure facilities
• Travel schemes and comprehensive family‑friendly benefits, including an excellent onsite nursery
• We support flexible working arrangements.
• We are proud to be a Disability Confident and Equal Opportunities employer.

For more information and to apply online, please download the further details and click on the 'apply online' button.