The Alan Turing Institute
Location: London
Salary: £78,367 to £81,876 plus excellent benefits
Hours: Full Time
Contract Type: Fixed-Term/Contract
Placed On: 7th August 2026
Closes: 31st August 2026
THE ROLE
The primary purpose of the role is to conduct internationally leading research, and the postholder will be part of the Institute’s Fundamental Research team. The Theme Lead will be part of a collaborative, multidisciplinary team of researchers and research engineers, and will be expected to engage with internal and external stakeholders and collaborators to support delivery of an ambitious research programme.
The role will work across the Turing’s Science and Innovation portfolio, including Defence and National Security, Environmental Forecasting, Sustainability, Fundamental Research and Strategic Capabilities, to embed and align the AI for Physical Systems Mission.
We are seeking a leader with an outstanding track record in AI for Physical Systems and a passion for multidisciplinary, impact-driven collaboration. Reporting to the Fundamental Research Mission Director, you will provide strategic leadership and line management for researchers and engineers. This is a standout opportunity to define the future of national research within a world-leading institute.
HOW YOU WILL MAKE AN IMPACT
You will ideally have an international profile as a researcher working in one or several disciplines, with experience of project delivery and leading a research team with a focus on AI for Physical Systems.
You will be expected to work closely with mission leadership to:
- Lead the development of the research strategy for AI for Physical Systems, ensuring strategic links between other research themes and missions.
- Lead on the technical oversight of project proposals, that includes, but is not limited to, proposed activities, resource plan, timeline, deliverable outputs and budget.
- Lead grant proposals and bids for funding within the thematic area.
- Lead delivery of the theme's active research and shape its evolution as flagship projects conclude and new awards are secured.
- Line manage staff within the theme, supporting their career development aspirations.
- Lead original research outputs / programmes / methodologies.
- Deputise for Mission Director in topics relating to AI for Physical Systems.
ABOUT YOU
- A strong track record and experience in a relevant area, e.g., machine learning, AI, computer science, mathematics, statistics, physics, engineering.
- Leadership and strategic vision skills
- Evidence of leading grant applications and securing external funding
- Able to identify and present key information, highlighting any potential issues as required, to influence future plans
Please see our portal for a full breakdown of the Job Description.
Terms and Conditions
This post is offered on a 2 year fixed term basis, at an annual salary range of £78,367 - £81,876 plus excellent benefits, including flexible working and family friendly policies, Employee-only benefits guide | The Alan Turing Institute
Application procedure
Please see our jobs portal via the 'Apply' button above for full details on how to apply and the interview process.
Equality Diversity and Inclusion
We value diversity of background, experience, and perspective, and are proud to be an inclusive employer. We warmly encourage applications from all backgrounds, particularly from groups currently under-represented in our sector. If you feel passionate about this role but don’t meet every single requirement, please apply – we recognise that great candidates may bring strengths beyond the criteria listed.