Cambridge Consultants’ Human-Machine Understanding (HMU) group is looking for an engineer to work at the intersection of AI, cognitive science, and human-machine interaction. HMU is building the technical framework of Intelligent Interfaces for modern digital and physical AI: a dedicated layer of intelligence that enables machines to perceive, reason about, and adapt to human behaviour and intent in real time. We apply this approach to diverse use cases, from robotics and automation in industrial and consumer settings, to agentic coaches and AI assistants in sports and healthcare. This is a high-autonomy role within the Human-Machine Understanding team in CC’s Intelligent Services business. As part of an emerging capability, you will have a mandate to explore and push the boundaries of the state-of-the-art in human-interactive AI. You will be involved in client projects as well as internal investment research projects to shape the future of our capability. Your work will involve navigating the art of the possible, deriving insights from diverse fields such as Psychology and Cognitive Science, Affective Computing, Human-Robot Interaction, and Cognitive Robotics, and turning them into robust, real-world interactive AI pipelines. You will be supported to develop your career in the direction you want, with mentoring and training provided. Opportunities for development and progression are varied and will be tailored to the interests, experience, and skills of the successful candidate, with scope to develop increased technical, commercial, and/or programme expertise and leadership. Deliver on diverse client projects, from designing and running human subjects’ studies for science-backed HMI/HRI design, to technical development of novel interfaces and interaction paradigms. Conduct technical research focused on understanding the art of the possible in human-machine understanding and translating it into robust industrial solutions through technical prototypes. Proactively identify opportunities to apply HMU across CC’s diverse markets, building the demos and prototypes that showcase our leadership in this space. Work with colleagues across Cambridge Consultants to translate deep technical insights into compelling narratives and functional systems for our clients, and academic audiences. An excellent degree or PhD in Computer Science, Robotics, Cognitive Science, Psychology or a related field with emphasis on computational modelling or AI. The ability to work independently, driving your own curiosity to explore new topics and proactively building prototypes that demonstrate your ideas. Experience with agentic AI workflows, knowledge graphs, and complex state-machine architectures. ICRA, IROS, HRI, NeurIPS, ICML), and/or academic journals (e.g. Development of software for distributed real-time physical systems or robotics (e.g., Some projects at Cambridge Consultants are subject to security restrictions. This role requires you to obtain a Security Check level security clearance (). Examples of projects undertaken by the team: Building contextual understanding into Physical AI systems for adaptive human-robot interaction Developing human-centric AI to assist with curating personalised music playlists for people living with dementia through behavioural monitoring Mapping the current space and future potential of human-machine understanding with Capgemini
Senior AI/ML Specialist employer: Cambridge Consultants
Cambridge Consultants is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration in the heart of Cambridge. Employees benefit from a hybrid working model, competitive remuneration, and opportunities for professional growth within a diverse team dedicated to advancing technology in Defence and Security sectors. With a commitment to employee development and a focus on meaningful projects, this role provides a unique chance to make a significant impact in a rapidly evolving field.
