At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct cutting-edge research in statistics for AI applications in national security.
- Company: Join Cardiff University’s innovative Statistics and Data Science team.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, blended working options, and excellent career progression.
- Other info: Flexible working arrangements and commitment to equality and diversity.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on intelligence analysis with advanced AI tools.
- Qualifications: Strong background in statistics, AI, and collaborative research skills.
The predicted salary is between 41064 - 46049 £ per year.
We are seeking a Research Associate in Statistics to join the Statistics and Data Science team in the School of Mathematics at Cardiff University. Cardiff University has been awarded a major EPSRC grant to develop AI methods that support intelligence analysis in national security and defence. The project, AI Intelligence Triage & Acquisition Support for Human-centred Analysis (AiTASHA), brings together an interdisciplinary consortium including the Universities of Warwick, Southampton and Dundee, and the Alan Turing Institute, working closely with UK government defence and national security partners. AiTASHA aims to improve the speed and defensibility of intelligence assessments by developing AI tools that complement, rather than replace, human analysts. Analysts must routinely make high-consequence decisions from vast, complex and uncertain data under significant time pressure. The project advances the state of the art across explainable multi-modal deep learning, causal statistical modelling, human–machine teaming and AI ethics.
In this role you will:
- Conduct research in statistics with applications to intelligence analysis.
- Develop methods enabling AI models to identify data subsets with the greatest potential to reduce predictive uncertainty.
- Build on techniques in explainability, interpretability and uncertainty quantification.
- Contribute to dissemination and engagement activities for the AiTASHA project.
We welcome applications from candidates who:
- Have research expertise in statistics with a strong mathematical foundation.
- Have experience in AI, machine learning or deep learning, and modern computational tools.
- Can collaborate with a close-knit research team and with partners.
The successful candidate must be eligible in principle for UK security clearance, for example through British citizenship or a minimum of five years’ UK residency. Further details are available on the UK Government security vetting website. Applicants will be asked to provide nationality information and residency history as part of the process.
This is a full-time (35 hours per week) fixed-term post for 14 months, starting 1 August or soon thereafter. Salary: £41,064 – £46,049 per annum (Grade 6). The role is eligible for blended working, combining on-campus and remote working where appropriate. Cardiff University offers excellent benefits and progression opportunities and is a proud Living Wage supporter.
For an informal discussion, please contact Prof Jon Gillard (gillardjw@cardiff.ac.uk) or Prof Maggie Chen (chenj60@cardiff.ac.uk).
Closing date: Tuesday, 17 March 2026
Equality and Diversity Statement: Cardiff University is committed to supporting and promoting equality and diversity and to creating an inclusive working environment. We believe this can be achieved through attracting, developing, and retaining a diverse range of staff from many different backgrounds who have the ambition to create a University which seeks to fulfil our social, cultural and economic obligation to Cardiff, Wales, and the world. In supporting our employees to achieve a balance between their work and their personal lives, we will also consider proposals for flexible working or job share arrangements. Applications may be submitted in Welsh, and an application submitted in Welsh will not be treated less favourably than an application submitted in English. Cardiff University is a signatory to the San Francisco Declaration on Research Assessment (DORA), which means that in hiring and promotion decisions we will evaluate applicants on the quality of their research, not publication metrics or the identity of the journal in which the research is published.
Research Associate in Statistics in Cardiff employer: Cardiff University
Cardiff University is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration in the realm of international research. With a strong commitment to employee development and a culture that values diversity and inclusion, staff are encouraged to grow their careers while contributing to impactful global partnerships. Located in the vibrant city of Cardiff, employees benefit from a rich cultural scene and a supportive community, making it an ideal place for meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate in Statistics in Cardiff
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Cardiff University, especially in the Statistics and Data Science team. A friendly chat can give us insights into the team culture and what they really value in a candidate.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your AI and statistics knowledge. We recommend diving into recent projects related to AiTASHA and thinking about how your skills can contribute to their goals. Show them you’re not just a fit, but the perfect fit!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to showcase your collaborative spirit! This role is all about teamwork, so be ready to share examples of how you’ve successfully worked with others in research settings. We want to see that you can gel with their close-knit team.
✨Tip Number 4
Finally, apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate in Statistics in Cardiff
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Research Associate role. Highlight your research expertise in statistics and any experience with AI or machine learning. We want to see how your skills align with the AiTASHA project!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about the role and how your background makes you a great fit for our Statistics and Data Science team. Keep it engaging and relevant!
Showcase Your Collaboration Skills:Since this role involves working closely with a research team and partners, be sure to mention any past experiences where you've successfully collaborated on projects. We love team players who can communicate effectively!
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves. We can't wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cardiff University
✨Know Your Stats
Brush up on your statistical knowledge and be ready to discuss how it applies to intelligence analysis. Be prepared to explain complex concepts in a simple way, as you might need to demonstrate your understanding of explainable AI methods.
✨Showcase Your AI Experience
Highlight any experience you have with AI, machine learning, or deep learning. Bring examples of projects you've worked on that involved these technologies, especially those that relate to uncertainty quantification or interpretability.
✨Collaborative Spirit
This role involves working closely with a research team and external partners. Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated in the past, and express your enthusiasm for interdisciplinary work.
✨Prepare Questions
Have thoughtful questions ready about the AiTASHA project and Cardiff University’s approach to research. This shows your genuine interest and helps you assess if the role is the right fit for you.
