AI/ML Technologist in Gateshead

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.

Like the sound of what we do but unsure if this is the right role for you? If you are interested in joining Digital Catapult and hearing about our latest vacancies, please email across your CV to digital-catapult@jobs.workablemail.com.

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!

We have a vibrant and engaging culture where all voices are heard and a variety of employee led affinity groups who champion initiatives and provide opportunities for feedback to be shared. We use moments in the year to educate everyone at Digital Catapult on different aspects of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion and to raise awareness. We also enjoy socialising and having fun together through a variety of company-wide events held throughout the year including our football team, running and climbing groups and volunteering activities.