Science and Technology Lead - Next-Generation Compute Architectures

Science and Technology Lead - Next-Generation Compute Architectures

Full-Time 70000 - 105000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Advanced Research + Invention Agency (ARIA)

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead groundbreaking AI hardware projects and shape the future of compute architectures.
  • Company: Join ARIA, a pioneering R&D funding agency driving technological breakthroughs.
  • Benefits: Enjoy 27 days annual leave, hybrid working, and continuous learning opportunities.
  • Other info: Dynamic role with travel opportunities and a commitment to ethical responsibility.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in AI while collaborating with top researchers and innovators.
  • Qualifications: PhD or equivalent experience in AI system design; strong programming skills required.

The predicted salary is between 70000 - 105000 £ per year.

Salary: £70,000 - £105,000 per year, commensurate with experience.

Location: Kings X, London; Tue‑Thu on site, Mon & Fri remote.

Employment: Full‑time, Permanent.

About ARIA

ARIA is an R&D funding agency that unlocks technological breakthroughs. It funds scientists and engineers to pursue research at the edge of possibility.

Role Summary

As a Science & Technology Lead, you will catalyse breakthroughs across AI hardware and compute programmes, collaborating with the Programme Director and others to shape and deliver projects, guide technical strategy, and drive impact across the portfolio.

What You'll Do

  • Act as the technical lead with Programme Director and Programme Specialist to shape and deliver the Scaling Compute programme, aiming to reduce AI hardware cost by 1000x.
  • Review project proposals, assess technical milestones, and stay close to Creator teams.
  • Lead and contribute to technical discussions in project meetings, workshops, and reviews, bringing depth and direction.
  • Provide evidence‑based technical insight to support high‑quality decisions.
  • Communicate complex scientific ideas to stakeholders including government, funders, and the ecosystem.
  • Leverage technical expertise in areas such as robot locomotion, inspection, maintenance, construction, and other cutting‑edge capabilities.
  • Identify emerging trends, surface promising technologies, people, and ideas.
  • Co‑author white papers, open calls, and technical reviews to articulate ambition and vision.
  • Drive project delivery, track milestones, benchmark progress, and spot research cross‑pollination opportunities.
  • Maintain a deep understanding of past and current programmes to help new Directors build on successes and avoid pitfalls.
  • Represent the programme at events, workshops, and talks on behalf of the Programme Director.
  • Support the broader opportunity space by developing innovative ways to expand and bring new ideas, talent, and opportunities.
  • Build trusted relationships with researchers, labs, and founders in the focus area and the broader opportunity space.
  • Collaborate with Activation Partners to ensure Creator teams access necessary tools, platforms, and networks.
  • Collaborate on funding models, budgets, tooling, and operational mechanisms.
  • Contribute to ARIA’s science and operational culture by sharing best practices across programmes.
  • Identify opportunities to expand the opportunity space and build connective tissue between adjacent areas.

Who You Are

Essential Criteria

  • First‑hand experience building/running modern AI models or systems using those models.
  • High proficiency learning new ideas/technologies quickly, assessing risks, and understanding industry impact.
  • Proficiency in at least one programming language/framework.
  • Experience building tangible engineering outputs used by others.
  • Strong ability to uncover opportunities and risks, connecting teams and research threads.
  • Adaptable, comfortable with uncertainty in fast‑paced environments.
  • Excellent communication, structuring, and interrogative skills.

Desirable Criteria

  • Hands‑on experience with the modern AI software stack (PyTorch, JAX, CUDA, Triton).
  • Understanding of modern AI architectures (Transformers, Diffusion Models) and system‑level performance limitations.
  • Understanding of hardware technologies underpinning AI systems.
  • Working knowledge of the UK R&D ecosystem.

Qualifications

A scientific qualification, preferably a PhD or equivalent technical experience in AI system design or related fields.

Benefits

  • 27 days annual leave (with option to buy/sell additional days)
  • Hybrid working arrangement: 60% office, 40% home
  • Learning and development opportunities
  • Enhanced family leave arrangements
  • 24/7 confidential employee assistance programme
  • Paid volunteer days (2 days)
  • 5% defined contribution pension scheme (Smart Pension)
  • Cycle to Work scheme
  • Excellent office location at Kings X, London

Additional Information

Travel may be required to different UK and international locations depending on Programme. ARIA adopts a considered approach to ethical and social responsibility. Policies on ethical and social responsibility and the 3Rs principle are available online. We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds. If you do not meet all criteria, we encourage you to apply. Use a cover letter to explain your interests and fit. We can provide reasonable adjustments during recruitment upon request.

Science and Technology Lead - Next-Generation Compute Architectures employer: Advanced Research + Invention Agency (ARIA)

At ARIA, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters innovation and collaboration in the heart of Kings X, London. Our hybrid working model, generous annual leave, and commitment to employee development create a supportive environment where you can thrive. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking team dedicated to unlocking technological breakthroughs while enjoying a vibrant work culture and excellent benefits.

Advanced Research + Invention Agency (ARIA)

Contact Details:

Advanced Research + Invention Agency (ARIA) Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Science and Technology Lead - Next-Generation Compute Architectures

Network Like a Pro

Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend events, workshops, and talks related to AI and compute architectures. Building relationships can open doors and give you insights that job applications alone can't.

Show Off Your Expertise

When you get the chance to chat with potential employers or at networking events, don’t hold back on sharing your knowledge. Discussing your experience with AI models or systems can really set you apart and show you're the right fit for the role.

Be Ready for Technical Discussions

Brush up on your technical skills and be prepared to dive deep into discussions about AI architectures and hardware technologies. Being able to articulate complex ideas clearly will impress stakeholders and demonstrate your expertise.

Apply Through Our Website

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at ARIA.

We think you need these skills to ace Science and Technology Lead - Next-Generation Compute Architectures

AI Hardware Expertise
Technical Leadership
Project Management
Communication Skills
Programming Proficiency
Risk Assessment
Adaptability

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your Cover Letter:Make sure to customise your cover letter for the Science & Technology Lead role. Highlight your relevant experience in AI hardware and compute programmes, and show us how you can contribute to reducing costs and driving impact.

Showcase Your Technical Skills:In your application, don’t forget to mention your proficiency in programming languages and frameworks. We want to see how your hands-on experience aligns with the technical requirements of the role, especially in modern AI models.

Communicate Clearly:Since you'll be communicating complex ideas to various stakeholders, make sure your application reflects your excellent communication skills. Use clear and concise language to convey your thoughts and experiences.

Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at ARIA!

How to prepare for a job interview at Advanced Research + Invention Agency (ARIA)

Know Your Tech Inside Out

Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest AI models and architectures, especially those mentioned in the job description like Transformers and Diffusion Models. Brush up on your programming skills too; being proficient in at least one language or framework is crucial.

Showcase Your Communication Skills

You’ll need to communicate complex scientific ideas clearly to various stakeholders. Practice explaining your past projects and technical concepts in simple terms, as this will demonstrate your ability to connect with non-technical audiences.

Prepare for Technical Discussions

Expect to engage in deep technical discussions during the interview. Review your past experiences where you led projects or contributed to technical strategies, and be ready to discuss how you can apply that knowledge to the Scaling Compute programme.

Demonstrate Adaptability

The role requires comfort with uncertainty in fast-paced environments. Think of examples from your experience where you successfully navigated change or adapted to new technologies quickly, and be prepared to share these stories.