Senior AI & ML Technologist

Digital Catapult; Belfast, Gateshead, Bristol, City Of London; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology research organization in Northern Ireland is seeking a Senior Technologist in AI/ML. This role involves contributing to cutting-edge research, leading projects, and influencing AI strategies. Ideal candidates will have a track record in AI/ML research, effective project management skills, and the ability to present complex concepts clearly. This position offers opportunities for significant contributions to the advancement of AI in the UK, along with competitive benefits and a commitment to diversity.

Benefits

25 days annual leave

Pension options

Discretionary bonus

Health and wellbeing benefits

Ongoing learning and development

Lifestyle benefits

Qualifications

• Deep knowledge of current AI techniques and trends.
• Experience in R&D proposals for funding.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities.
• Comfortable presenting technical work to diverse audiences.
• Desirable experience in energy, creative, and telecom sectors.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to cutting-edge AI and ML research.
• Lead projects on advanced AI topics.
• Develop IP for commercialisation.
• Collaborate with academic and industry partners.
• Influence the AI/ML strategy at Digital Catapult.

Skills

Independent research in AI/ML

Project management

Presentation skills

Use of AI/ML tooling

Industry experience

Job description

Overview

Reporting to the Lead AI/ML Technologist, the Senior Technologist will be responsible for new research and innovation projects in the application and advancement of AI techniques. They will maintain expertise in cutting edge AI technologies and approaches, contributing development of the team and furthering our strategy by building capabilities and assets in this area. This is an exciting opportunity to take part in the evolution and adoption of advanced AI in the UK, facilitating the government missions for developing UK capability in cutting edge AI. The initial focus of this roll will be in energy systems flexibility and creative industries applications of agentic AI.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to original research in the cutting edge of AI and ML (focusing on TRL 2 and above)
• Work on and lead projects on topics such as agentic AI, MCP, generative AI, verifiable AI, neuro-symbolic AI, reinforcement learning, machine learning — building on existing work and advancing techniques, understanding and application
• Assist in developing IP in the cutting edge of AI that can be commercialised in the future
• Partner with academic researchers and industry to turn theoretical breakthroughs into practical applications that solve real problems
• Influence AI/ML strategy, both within our research agenda and internally Digital Catapult, ensuring teams understand where the technology is headed
• Build relationships with academic and industry partners while contributing to R&D proposals for bodies like Innovate UK, Horizon Europe and EPSRC
• Write, speak, and consult through publications, conference talks
• Mentor colleagues, help with hiring for AI roles, and help build the capabilities that keep Digital Catapult at the forefront
• Consult with SMEs and corporate clients as an expert in the cutting edge of AI

Qualifications

• Track record of independent research in AI/ML with deep knowledge of current techniques and where the field is moving
• Experience contributing to or developing R&D proposals for funding
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, prioritising effectively
• Comfortable presenting complex technical work to varied audiences at a range of technical levels - ability to translate between academic research language and industrial needs, making complex concepts accessible to different audiences
• Experience using standard AI/ML tooling, platforms and architectures to develop proofs of concept or demonstrations
• Industry experience highly desirable
• Experience translating research outcomes into commercialisable IP highly desirable
• Experience in the energy, creative and telecoms sector desirable

Deadline for Applications: Friday 21st November @ 5pm

Diversity, Equality & Inclusion

Commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

We recognise and value the advantages and opportunities that come with having people from diverse backgrounds working with us and it is our ambition to build an organisation which is representative and reflective of UK society.

We welcome applications from neurodivergent candidates, candidates from minority and underrepresented groups and from candidates with more or less experience, provided the requisite skills can be demonstrated.

As members of the Disability Confident Scheme, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the vacancy. Please do speak with us about adjustments that could support you through our interview process.

Digital Catapult is an equal opportunities employer.

• We are in the UK’s Top 100 Best Workplaces and placed in the UK’s Best Workplaces in Tech and Large Organisations.
• Digital Catapult is a Disability Confident Committed Level 1 Employer.

Benefits (summary): 25 days annual leave, Bank Holidays and 3 days between Christmas and New Year; pension options; discretionary bonus; health and wellbeing benefits; hybrid working; ongoing learning and development; and other lifestyle benefits.

We have a vibrant and engaging culture where all voices are heard and a variety of employee led affinity groups who champion initiatives and provide opportunities for feedback to be shared.

We use moments in the year to educate everyone at Digital Catapult on different aspects of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion and to raise awareness.

We also enjoy socialising and having fun together through a variety of company-wide events held throughout the year including our football team, running and climbing groups and volunteering activities.