Trustworthy AI - Principal Scientist

About the Role

Put simply, we set the standards by which everything is measured. In doing so, the National Physical Laboratory is helping to combat issues on a global scale such as climate change, curing diseases and the development of cutting-edge communications technology. At NPL, we touch ordinary lives in extraordinary ways and you could too.

About You

Our world-leading Laboratory is seeking an experienced Principal Scientist to lead our work in the field of Trustworthy AI. 

You will lead a team of data and AI scientists, expand capabilities within the department, prepare technical proposals and help define our strategic priorities, whilst engaging with stakeholders across government, industry and academia. You will collaborate with scientists and engineers from across NPL and externally to solve problems. You will mentor and develop early career staff to build capability to meet future needs. 

You will develop detailed technical knowledge in trustworthy AI, including general aspects of risk and quality management, testing and assessment of machine learning algorithms, and the generation and manipulation of synthetic or simulated data for benchmarking. You will also be leading the application of machine learning methods to a wide range of measurement problems, working collaboratively with scientists across NPL and externally.  

We have a number of exciting projects including our flagship Centre for AI Measurement NPL to establish new Centre for AI Measurement - NPL for you to come and shape the future of AI Assurance for the UK.

We believe that diversity and unique perspectives are key to the success of our science and engineering projects. For this role, we particularly encourage applications from candidates underrepresented in STEM disciplines, in particular women, disabled, black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates, as well as Armed Forces service leavers looking to transition into the civilian workforce. 

Essential experience: 

• Extensive knowledge of machine learning and AI in the context of Physics, Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, or a relevant science or engineering discipline. 
• An exceptional track record in research and the ability to drive ideas forward in a collaborative manner    
• Clear evidence of leadership in developing technical proposals and commercial offerings 
• Clear evidence of leadership in leading technical teams, and engaging with a variety of internal and external stakeholders to maximise the impact of our work 
• Deep knowledge of methods of machine learning and deep learning and proficiency in the practical application of those methods 
• Familiarity with testing and assessment of machine learning algorithms and AI systems that include machine learning. 
• Proficiency in programming languages such as C++, Python or MATLAB 
• Familiarity with organizations for standards development, the role of relevant standards, and the process of standards development 
• Familiarity with uncertainty quantification
• Familiarity with LLMs

Location: The role will require regular presence in one of our three hubs (Teddington, Glasgow, Cambridge).

We actively recruit citizens of all backgrounds, but the nature of our work in specific departments means that nationality, residency and security requirements can be more tightly defined than others. You will be asked about this throughout the recruitment process. There might be a requirement for the candidate to hold SC clearance or be open to obtaining one.

Please note: Applications will be reviewed, and interviews conducted throughout the duration of this advert therefore we may at any time bring the closing date forward.  We encourage all interested applicants to apply as soon as practical. 

About Us

• The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) is a world-leading centre of excellence that provides cutting-edge measurement science, engineering and technology to underpin prosperity and quality of life in the UK. Find out more about what it is like working here - The measure of us - Overview

  NPL and DSIT have strong commitments to diversity and equality of opportunity, and welcome applications from candidates irrespective of their background, gender, race, sexual orientation, religion, or age, providing they meet the required criteria. Applications from women, disabled and black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates in particular are encouraged. All disabled candidates (as defined by the Equality Act 2010) who satisfy the minimum criteria for the role will be guaranteed an interview under the Disability Confident Scheme.
  At NPL, we believe our success is a result of the diversity and talent of our people. We strive to nurture and respect individuals to ensure everyone feels valued by treating everyone on the basis of their own individual merits and abilities regardless of their own or perceived identity, as part of our commitment to diversity & inclusion, we ensure we’re creating an environment where all our colleagues feel supported and welcome. More about this on our Diversity & Inclusion page.
  We are committed to the health and well-being of our employees. Flexible working and social activities are embedded in our culture to create a positive work-life balance, along with a broad range of rewards, benefits and recognition . Our values are at the heart of what we do, and they shape the way we interact, develop our people and celebrate success. To ensure everyone has an equal chance, we’re always willing to make reasonable adjustments to the recruitment process. If you would like to discuss, please contact us.