Research Assistant in AI and Digital Twin Modelling - Six month fixed term, part-time contract [...]

Research Assistant in AI and Digital Twin Modelling - Six month fixed term, part-time contract [...]

Part-Time 30000 - 35000 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
BIRMINGHAM CITY UNIVERSITY

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Develop AI models for energy efficiency and support digital twin prototype development.
  • Company: Join a leading university's Computer Science department focused on innovation.
  • Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, career growth opportunities, and competitive pay.
  • Other info: Collaborative environment with diverse teams and exciting project phases.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in sustainable energy through cutting-edge research.
  • Qualifications: 2:1 degree in relevant field and strong machine learning skills required.

The predicted salary is between 30000 - 35000 £ per year.

We are seeking a Research Assistant in AI and Digital Twin Modelling to join our Department of Computer Science and support the delivery of high‑quality research and innovation activity across the University. The postholder will play a central role in delivering the core technical components of the DTNet+ funded project over a six‑month period, focusing on the development of AI‑enhanced digital twin models to optimise energy efficiency in Positive Energy Districts.

The role will involve designing and implementing machine learning and deep learning models, processing and analysing large‑scale energy datasets, and improving predictive performance for energy demand forecasting, system optimisation and condition/maintenance prediction. Working closely with the Principal Investigator, Dr Syed Attique Shah, the wider research team, and external partners, you will contribute to the development, testing and validation of the digital twin prototype, supporting key project phases including prototype development, performance evaluation and research dissemination.

Key Responsibilities
  • Develop and implement AI/ML models for energy demand forecasting and system optimisation
  • Support the design and development of the digital twin prototype
  • Process and analyse large‑scale energy datasets (renewable and non‑renewable)
  • Contribute to improving prediction accuracy and system performance metrics
  • Assist in testing, validation, and evaluation of the prototype
  • Support preparation of technical reports, publications, and conference outputs
  • Collaborate with project partners and contribute to research meetings
Qualifications
  • A minimum 2:1 undergraduate degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Software Engineering, Gaming, Computer Vision, or a closely related field
  • Strong knowledge of machine learning and deep learning techniques
  • Proficiency in Python (TensorFlow, PyTorch, Scikit‑learn)
  • Experience with data analysis, modelling, and predictive analytics
  • Understanding of handling large‑scale, multi‑source datasets
  • Strong problem‑solving and analytical skills
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to work independently and meet project milestones
  • MSc or PhD in AI, Data Science, or related discipline
  • Experience with digital twin technologies or simulation systems
  • Knowledge of energy systems, smart cities, or IoT data
  • Familiarity with reinforcement learning or time‑series forecasting
  • Experience in funded research or industry collaboration projects
Benefits
  • Work‑life balance – Generous leave and hybrid working (role dependent)
  • Career development – Opportunities to grow, develop and progress your career
  • Reward and wellbeing – Competitive pay, pension, wellbeing support and staff benefits
  • Inclusive culture – A supportive, diverse environment where everyone belongs

Research Assistant in AI and Digital Twin Modelling - Six month fixed term, part-time contract [...] employer: BIRMINGHAM CITY UNIVERSITY

Join our dynamic team at the University, where we prioritise work-life balance and offer generous leave alongside hybrid working options. As a Research Assistant in AI and Digital Twin Modelling, you will have access to excellent career development opportunities, competitive pay, and a supportive, inclusive culture that fosters diversity and innovation.

BIRMINGHAM CITY UNIVERSITY

Contact Details:

BIRMINGHAM CITY UNIVERSITY Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Research Assistant in AI and Digital Twin Modelling - Six month fixed term, part-time contract [...]

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, attend relevant events, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can refer you directly.

Tip Number 2

Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and showcasing your skills. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or using online platforms to get comfortable talking about your experience and how it relates to AI and digital twin modelling.

Tip Number 3

Showcase your projects! If you've worked on any relevant AI or data science projects, make sure to highlight them during interviews. Bring along a portfolio or a GitHub link to demonstrate your hands-on experience with machine learning models.

Tip Number 4

Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our team and contributing to exciting projects like DTNet+.

We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant in AI and Digital Twin Modelling - Six month fixed term, part-time contract [...]

Machine Learning
Deep Learning
Python
TensorFlow
PyTorch
Scikit-learn
Data Analysis

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Research Assistant in AI and Digital Twin Modelling. Highlight relevant experience, especially in machine learning and data analysis, to show us you’re the perfect fit for our team.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should tell us why you're passionate about AI and digital twin technologies. Share specific examples of your work that relate to energy efficiency and how you can contribute to our project goals.

Showcase Your Skills:Don’t forget to showcase your technical skills, especially in Python and any relevant frameworks like TensorFlow or PyTorch. We want to see how you can apply these skills to real-world problems in your application.

Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, make sure to apply through our website. This way, we can easily track your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves!

How to prepare for a job interview at BIRMINGHAM CITY UNIVERSITY

Know Your Stuff

Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of AI and digital twin modelling. Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in machine learning and deep learning techniques, especially those relevant to energy efficiency. Being able to discuss specific projects or papers will show your genuine interest and expertise.

Showcase Your Skills

Prepare to demonstrate your proficiency in Python and any relevant libraries like TensorFlow or PyTorch. You might be asked to solve a coding problem or discuss how you've used these tools in past projects. Bring examples of your work or even a portfolio if you have one!

Understand the Project

Research the DTNet+ project and its goals. Knowing how your role as a Research Assistant fits into the bigger picture will help you articulate your potential contributions. Be ready to discuss how you can support the development and validation of the digital twin prototype.

Communicate Clearly

Since you'll be collaborating with various teams and partners, strong communication skills are key. Practice explaining complex concepts in simple terms. During the interview, make sure to listen actively and engage with your interviewers, showing that you're a team player.