At a Glance
- Tasks: Contribute to groundbreaking AI research and develop innovative solutions for real-world problems.
- Company: Join Digital Catapult, a top UK workplace focused on cutting-edge technology and collaboration.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, generous leave, hybrid work, and a range of perks tailored for you.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the evolving field of AI while working with industry leaders.
- Qualifications: Experience in AI/ML research and ability to communicate complex ideas effectively.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with excellent career growth opportunities and social events.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
Reporting to the Lead AI/ML Technologist, the AI/ML Technologist will contribute to cutting‑edge research in AI, spanning both agentic and post‑LLM paradigms, as well as to the development of exploitable intellectual property in these domains. They will maintain expertise in state‑of‑the‑art AI technologies and algorithms, support the development of the team, and advance organisational strategy through the creation of AI capabilities and assets. This role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to the evolution and adoption of advanced AI across the UK, within both industrial and academic contexts, while supporting government missions to strengthen national AI capability.
What you’ll do (duties)
- Contribute to original research (TRL 2+) in the cutting‑edge of areas of AI and ML such as agentic AI, MCP, generative AI, verifiable AI, neuro‑symbolic AI, reinforcement learning, AI + quantum computing, and disseminate research through publications in reputable journals and conferences.
- Support industrial R&D projects on cutting‑edge AI, building on existing work and advancing techniques, understanding and application, and developing IP that can be commercialised in the future.
- Partner with industry and academic researchers to turn theoretical breakthroughs into practical applications that solve real problems.
- Collaborate with technologists from other areas such as quantum computing, 5G, IoT, and immersive technologies.
- Help in developing AI/ML strategy, both within our research agenda and internally Digital Catapult, ensuring teams understand where the technology is headed.
- Build relationships with academic and industry partners while contributing to R&D proposals for bodies like Innovate UK, Horizon Europe and EPSRC.
- Consult with SMEs and corporate clients as an expert in the cutting‑edge of AI.
- Evidence of independent research in AI/ML with deep knowledge of current techniques and where the field is moving.
- Experience contributing to or developing R&D proposals for funding.
- Proven ability to contribute to multiple projects simultaneously, prioritising effectively.
- Comfortable with presenting complex technical work to varied audiences at a range of technical levels – ability to translate between academic research language and industrial needs, making complex concepts accessible to different audiences.
- Experience using standard AI/ML tooling, platforms and architectures to develop proofs of concept or demonstrations.
- Industry experience highly desirable.
- Experience translating research outcomes into commercialisable IP highly desirable.
- Experience in the energy, creative and telecoms sector desirable.
Salary £55 - 65k depending on skills and experience.
Deadline for Applications: 16th April 2026.
Commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
We recognise and value the advantages and opportunities that come with having people from diverse backgrounds working with us and it is our ambition to build an organisation which is representative and reflective of UK society. We welcome applications from neurodivergent candidates, candidates from minority and underrepresented groups and from candidates with more or less experience, provided the requisite skills can be demonstrated. As members of the Disability Confident Scheme, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the vacancy. Please do speak with us about adjustments that could support you through our interview process. Digital Catapult is an equal opportunities employer.
Benefits
- We are in the UK’s Top 100 Best Workplaces and placed in the UK’s Best Workplaces in Tech and Large Organisations.
- Digital Catapult is a Disability Confident Committed Level 1 Employer.
- Excellent holiday package: 25 days annual leave, Bank Holidays and 3 days between Christmas and New Year.
- Double‑matched pension up to 10% of your salary.
- Discretionary company bonus.
- 4% of your salary to use towards selecting benefits that work for you, including health cash plan, Private Medical Insurance, buying holiday, topping up your pension.
- E‑Vehicle Scheme; Cycle2Work; Tech Scheme; Gym Discounts; Give As you Earn; PerkPal.
- Life insurance 4x salary.
- Free to access EAP & Financial Wellbeing advice.
- Enhanced maternity and paternity leave.
- Hybrid working – with great offices to work from 2 days per week with some roles needing to be onsite more regularly to ensure the successful delivery of our work.
- Investment in your ongoing learning and development with us.
- Company social events throughout the year and free office snacks!
AI/ML Technologist in Belfast employer: Digital Catapult Group
Contact Detail:
Digital Catapult Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land AI/ML Technologist in Belfast
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the AI/ML field through LinkedIn or industry events. Building connections can lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your projects, research, and any relevant work. This is your chance to demonstrate your expertise in cutting-edge AI technologies.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge and soft skills. Practice explaining complex concepts in simple terms, as you’ll need to communicate effectively with diverse audiences.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to 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 proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace AI/ML Technologist in Belfast
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Research Skills: Make sure to highlight your experience in AI/ML research. We want to see how you've contributed to original research and any publications you've got under your belt. This is your chance to shine, so don’t hold back!
Tailor Your Application: When applying, tailor your CV and cover letter to match the job description. Use keywords from the posting to show us you understand what we’re looking for. It helps us see how you fit into our team!
Demonstrate Collaboration: We love teamwork! Share examples of how you've partnered with others in your previous roles, especially in academic or industrial settings. Show us how you can bridge the gap between theory and practical applications.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, it makes the whole process smoother for everyone involved.
How to prepare for a job interview at Digital Catapult Group
✨Know Your AI/ML Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends and technologies in AI and ML. Familiarise yourself with concepts like agentic AI, generative AI, and reinforcement learning. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're not just a candidate, but a passionate expert ready to contribute.
✨Showcase Your Research Experience
Prepare to talk about your previous research projects and how they relate to the role. Highlight any publications or presentations you've done, especially those that demonstrate your ability to translate complex ideas into practical applications. This will help the interviewers see your potential impact on their R&D efforts.
✨Collaborate Like a Pro
Since this role involves working with both academic and industry partners, be ready to discuss your experience in collaboration. Share examples of how you've successfully partnered with others to turn theoretical breakthroughs into real-world solutions. This will illustrate your teamwork skills and adaptability.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions during the interview. Brush up on standard AI/ML tools and platforms, and be prepared to explain how you've used them in past projects. Practising how to present complex technical work to varied audiences will also help you stand out as a candidate who can bridge the gap between academia and industry.