Principal AI Engineer, Artificial Intelligence Collaboration Centre (AICC)

Ulster University; Derry/Londonderry; On-site; GBP 61,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading university in Northern Ireland is seeking a Principal AI Engineer to join the Artificial Intelligence Collaboration Centre. This full-time position involves leading a team of AI/ML engineers in developing collaborative research projects with industry partners. The ideal candidate will possess a degree in AI or related fields and substantial experience in technical leadership. The role offers a competitive salary of £60,001 per year and aims to enhance local AI capabilities.

Benefits

Attractive employee benefits

Flexible working options

Qualifications

• Substantial experience in a senior leadership role within AI or Data Science.
• Proven track record of delivering innovative technology solutions.
• Ability to meet tight deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team of AI/ML engineers and manage day-to-day activities.
• Collaborate on research and development projects with local companies.
• Frame and deliver AI-related projects.

Skills

Technical leadership in AI/ML

Innovation in technology solutions

Collaboration with industry

Education

Degree in Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, or Computer Science

Job description

Principal AI Engineer, Artificial Intelligence Collaboration Centre (AICC)

Job Title: Principal AI Engineer, Artificial Intelligence Collaboration Centre (AICC)

Department/School: School of Computing, Engineering and Intelligent Systems

Campus: Derry~Londonderry OR Belfast

Salary: £60,001 per annum

Duration: Fixed-Term until 31st August 2028 / Full-time

Closing Date: 16th November 2025 at 23:30

Reference Number: 038846

About AICC: The Artificial Intelligence Collaboration Centre (AICC) is a £16.3M investment by InvestNI and the Department for the Economy to create a partnership between Ulster University and Queen's University, based predominantly in Belfast and Derry/Londonderry. The AICC aims to increase the use of AI by local companies in Northern Ireland by collaborating on a series of applied technology projects.

THE ROLE: As a Principal AI Engineer in the AICC team, you will work with the AICC Research Lead to develop the skills and experience of the full team of AI/ML engineers. You will provide day‑to‑day leadership for the team, specifically around framing and delivering collaborative research and development efforts with companies across a wide range of areas such as AI, ML & Data Science.

ABOUT YOU:

• A degree in Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Computer Science, or a related discipline.
• Substantial, demonstrable experience in a senior technical leadership role within AI, Data Science, or closely related fields.
• A proven track record of delivering ambitious, innovative technology solutions to demanding commercial or industrial clients to tight deadlines.

We may create a 12‑month waiting list for the same or similar roles within the Department/Faculty. The University reserves the right to extend the waiting list across the University if required for certain posts.

We also provide attractive employee benefits available on our website.

Athena SWAN Statement – The School of Computing, Engineering and Intelligent Systems holds a Bronze Athena SWAN Award in recognition of our commitment to advancing gender equality. The University has a range of initiatives to support a family‑friendly working environment, including flexible working.

Equal Opportunities – The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities. Appointment will be made on merit.