Research Fellowship (AI), Imperial Policy Forum
Research Fellowship (AI), Imperial Policy Forum

Research Fellowship (AI), Imperial Policy Forum

Full-Time 46000 - 57000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Conduct groundbreaking AI research and deliver expert training to government officials.
  • Company: Join Imperial College London, a top global university driving impactful scientific advancements.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, 39 days off, and access to dedicated career support.
  • Why this job: Be part of a diverse team making a real difference in government policy through AI.
  • Qualifications: PhD or equivalent expertise in AI, machine learning, or related fields required.
  • Other info: This is a fixed-term position with potential for extension; apply early to secure your chance!

The predicted salary is between 46000 - 57000 £ per year.

The Imperial Policy Forum are recruiting research Fellows to work on an exciting new initiative connecting research in fundamental and applied AI to policy. Fellows will conduct their own research programme as well as support in the delivery of AI upskilling and expertise transfer to government. There are 3 positions available with a duration of 3 years.

What you would be doing

  • To deliver ground-breaking research in fundamental and applied AI that is directly relevant to policy.
  • To develop and deliver expert-led training on AI to civil servants across government.

Fellows will spend 50% of their time on each of:

  • Their own research programme – either self-directed, supported by the multidisciplinary team at the Imperial Policy Forum, or in collaboration with one of the AI research groups at Imperial College.
  • Supporting the delivery of AI upskilling and expertise transfer to government – through co-developing and delivering training courses, working on applied research projects that respond to policy questions, part-time or short-term secondments into government and third sector organisations, and collaboration with secondees into the Imperial Policy Forum.

What we are looking for

We are a multidisciplinary team, and applications from social scientists, AI researchers, and policy experts are strongly encouraged. AI here should be interpreted very broadly: it could include any of (but is not limited to) fundamental research in machine learning or statistics, algorithm design, the application of AI methods in science, healthcare, social sciences, or business.

You should have a PhD or equivalent level of expertise in a relevant discipline, and a track record in one of the following areas, with evidenced interest in developing the others:

  • Original research in AI, machine learning, or a related field.
  • Policy-relevant work in AI or a related field.
  • Effective communication of complex scientific ideas to a non-technical audience.

Application should include:

  • A short CV.
  • A summary, in one page or less, of your proposed research. This should be suitable for a general scientific audience.
  • A description of your proposed research, of at most two pages, aimed at experts in that field.
  • A short note, of at most one page, that describes a policy challenge or recent scientific advance related to AI, and its implications for UK government policy.
  • If you propose to deliver their research programme in collaboration with one of the AI research groups at Imperial, a statement of support from that research group.

What we can offer you

The opportunity to work in a unique multidisciplinary team focused on delivering positive impact to how government understands and uses AI. The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution and be part of our mission to continue science for humanity. Grow your career: gain access to Imperial’s sector-leading dedicated career support for researchers as well as opportunities for promotion and progression. Sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 39 days off a year and generous pension schemes). Be part of a diverse, inclusive and collaborative work culture with various staff networks and resources to support your personal and professional wellbeing.

Further information

A 2-year fixed-term position with the potential for a 12-month extension. If you require any further details about the role, please contact: Pete Ford, Head of Imperial Policy Forum (p.ford@imperial.ac.uk) and Professor Tom Coates (t.coates@imperial.ac.uk).

Please note that job descriptions are not exhaustive, and you may be asked to take on additional duties that align with the key responsibilities mentioned above. We reserve the right to close the advert prior to the closing date stated should we receive a high volume of applications. It is therefore advisable that you submit your application as early as possible to avoid disappointment.

About Imperial: Welcome to Imperial, a global top ten university where scientific imagination leads to world-changing impact. Join us and be part of something bigger. From global health to climate change, AI to business leadership, here at Imperial we navigate some of the world’s toughest challenges. Whatever your role, your contribution will have a lasting impact. As a member of our vibrant community of 22,000 students and 8,000 staff, you’ll collaborate with passionate minds across nine London campuses and a global network. This is your chance to help shape the future. We hope you’ll join us at Imperial College London.

Our Culture

We work towards equality of opportunity, to eliminating discrimination, and to creating an inclusive working environment for all. We encourage applications from all backgrounds, communities and industries, and are committed to employing a team that has diverse skills, experiences and abilities. You can read more about our commitment on our webpages. Our values are at the root of everything we do and everyone in our community is expected to demonstrate respect, collaboration, excellence, integrity, and innovation.

Research Fellowship (AI), Imperial Policy Forum employer: IMPERIAL COLLEGE

Imperial College London is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work within a multidisciplinary team at the forefront of AI research and policy impact. Located in the vibrant South Kensington Campus, employees benefit from a sector-leading salary, generous leave, and dedicated career support, all within a diverse and inclusive culture that fosters personal and professional growth. Join us to make a meaningful contribution to society while advancing your career in a world-renowned institution.
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Contact Detail:

IMPERIAL COLLEGE Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Research Fellowship (AI), Imperial Policy Forum

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and developments in AI and policy. This will not only help you understand the context of the role but also enable you to engage in meaningful conversations during interviews.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with professionals in the field of AI and policy. Attend relevant conferences, webinars, or workshops to meet potential colleagues and mentors who can provide insights and possibly refer you to opportunities.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss your research ideas in detail. Think about how your work can directly impact policy and be ready to articulate this clearly, as it will demonstrate your understanding of the role's objectives.

✨Tip Number 4

Consider reaching out to current or former fellows at the Imperial Policy Forum. They can offer valuable insights into the application process and what it's like to work in that environment, helping you tailor your approach.

We think you need these skills to ace Research Fellowship (AI), Imperial Policy Forum

PhD or equivalent expertise in AI, machine learning, or a related field
Original research experience in AI or machine learning
Policy-relevant work experience in AI or related fields
Effective communication of complex scientific ideas to non-technical audiences
Ability to develop and deliver expert-led training on AI
Collaboration skills for multidisciplinary teamwork
Experience in applied research projects responding to policy questions
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Knowledge of algorithm design and statistical methods
Understanding of the implications of AI advancements for government policy
Adaptability to work in a hybrid environment
Project management skills for coordinating research and training initiatives

Some tips for your application 🫡

Understand the Role: Before you start writing, make sure you fully understand the job description. Focus on the key responsibilities and objectives of the Research Fellowship, especially how your skills align with delivering research in AI relevant to policy.

Tailor Your CV: Craft your CV to highlight your relevant experience in AI, machine learning, or policy work. Emphasise any original research or communication of complex ideas to non-technical audiences, as these are crucial for this role.

Propose Your Research: Prepare a concise summary of your proposed research that is suitable for a general scientific audience. Ensure it is clear, engaging, and demonstrates the relevance of your work to policy challenges.

Address Policy Implications: In your application, include a short note describing a policy challenge or recent scientific advance related to AI. Discuss its implications for UK government policy, showcasing your understanding of the intersection between AI and policy-making.

How to prepare for a job interview at IMPERIAL COLLEGE

✨Understand the Role and Its Impact

Familiarise yourself with the objectives of the Research Fellowship, particularly how your research can influence policy. Be prepared to discuss how your background in AI or related fields can contribute to the goals of the Imperial Policy Forum.

✨Prepare Your Research Proposal

Craft a clear and concise summary of your proposed research that is suitable for a general audience. Make sure to also have a detailed version ready for experts, highlighting its relevance to current policy challenges.

✨Showcase Your Communication Skills

Since effective communication of complex ideas is crucial, practice explaining your research in simple terms. Be ready to demonstrate how you would convey technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders, such as civil servants.

✨Engage with the Multidisciplinary Team

Highlight your ability to collaborate across disciplines. Discuss any previous experiences working with diverse teams and how you can bring different perspectives to the table, especially in relation to AI applications in various sectors.

Research Fellowship (AI), Imperial Policy Forum
IMPERIAL COLLEGE
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  • Research Fellowship (AI), Imperial Policy Forum

    Full-Time
    46000 - 57000 £ / year (est.)

    Application deadline: 2027-06-13

  • I

    IMPERIAL COLLEGE

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