Data Science and Machine Learning Research Scientist

Anson McCade; Chelmsford; Hybrid; GBP 70,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Anson McCade is seeking a Data Science and Machine Learning Research Scientist to work on innovative AI/ML solutions in a collaborative environment. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in applied research and a PhD or Master’s degree, focusing on real-world applications in national security and defence.

Qualifications

• 3+ years' experience in applied R&D or research consultancy, ideally in public sector/defence.
• Expertise in multi-modal data fusion, uncertainty quantification, or geospatial data analysis.

Responsibilities

• Conduct applied research in data science and machine learning.
• Design, implement, and evaluate ML models.
• Collaborate with experts and prepare technical deliverables.

Skills

Python

Machine Learning

Data Science

Statistical Analysis

Education

PhD or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Machine Learning, Data Science

Tools

PyTorch

TensorFlow

scikit-learn

Job description

Data Science and Machine Learning Research Scientist

Location: Chelmsford | Hybrid (2 days onsite) | Salary ~£70,000 + 10% bonus | SC Clearable

A specialist technology consultancy is seeking a Data Science and Machine Learning Research Scientist to develop novel AI/ML solutions for complex, real-world challenges in national security and defence. Working within a mission-led, multidisciplinary team, you’ll help shape next-generation tools across areas such as multi-modal fusion, geospatial intelligence, and intelligent decision support.

The Opportunity

You’ll join a 35+ person AI & Machine Learning capability, collaborating across disciplines including computer vision, NLP, knowledge representation, and reinforcement learning. This hands-on role focuses on applied research and technical delivery—spanning early-stage concept exploration to proof-of-concept demonstrators for government R&D sponsors.

The team operates at the intersection of data science, autonomy, cyber, and complex systems—blending statistical, symbolic, and machine learning approaches to address high-impact use cases.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct applied research in data science and machine learning, with a focus on real-world decision-making applications

• Design, implement, and evaluate ML models for structured and unstructured data

• Contribute to R&D proposals, technical reports, and demonstrator systems

• Collaborate with domain experts, academic partners, and internal teams to deliver mission-relevant innovation

• Support mentoring and knowledge sharing within the wider AI/ML group

About You

• PhD or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Machine Learning, Data Science, or related field

• 3+ years' experience in applied R&D or research consultancy (public sector/defence background advantageous)

• Strong Python skills and experience with ML frameworks (e.g. PyTorch, TensorFlow, scikit-learn)

Expertise in one or more of the following areas:

o Multi-modal data fusion or time series analysis

o Uncertainty quantification or probabilistic modelling

o Active learning, explainable AI, or online learning

o Geospatial data analysis or sensor-based modelling

• Experience preparing technical deliverables and engaging with stakeholders

Why Apply?

This is a rare opportunity to work on secure, high-impact research programmes that directly support the UK’s national capability in AI and data science. You’ll operate in a collaborative, cross-disciplinary environment that values both scientific rigour and mission relevance, where your work will feed into live systems and critical decision-making tools.

Hybrid working is offered, with typically 2 days onsite in Chelmsford. You'll be part of a forward-thinking team pushing the boundaries of AI innovation in a secure and meaningful context.

Interested?

Apply now or get in touch for a confidential conversation. This is a unique chance to advance AI research where it matters most.

For further information, feel free to reach me at 02895213213, or simply apply!

Reference: AMC/RKI