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- Tasks: Join our Digital Audit Team to innovate and automate audit processes using cutting-edge mathematics.
- Company: Grant Thornton is a global network of independent audit, tax, and advisory firms prioritising quality and integrity.
- Benefits: Enjoy a fully funded professional qualification, flexible work-life balance, and exclusive discounts.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on UK businesses while shaping the future of audit with innovative solutions.
- Qualifications: Curious minds with a passion for technology; coding knowledge is a plus but not essential.
- Other info: This three-year programme offers hands-on experience and dedicated support for your professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Overview
More than you expected
The UK member firms of Grant Thornton are part of a global network of independent audit, tax and advisory firms, made up of some 76,000 in over 150 countries. We\’re a team of independent thinkers who put quality, inclusion and integrity first. All around the world we bring a different experience to our clients. A better experience. One that delivers the expertise they need in a way that goes beyond. Personal, proactive, and agile. That\’s Grant Thornton.
Job Description: Real responsibility. Real impact. Right from the start.
What you\’ll do
The Digital Audit Team at Grant Thornton have been harnessing data to automate existing audit tests and create entirely new audit tests. We take pride in quality across the firm and have made a significant investment in this area – it is at the heart of everything we do.
To drive the next wave of transformation, we have launched a brand-new Research Lab within the Digital Audit Team. This lab is a hub for cutting-edge mathematical research, with a strong focus on machine learning and emerging technologies. It\’s an exciting opportunity to shape the future of audit through bold ideas and smart solutions. You can help us explore this under-researched area and see your mathematical musings translated into immediate value for the firm.
Our three-year audit graduate programme is your launchpad to a meaningful career, a professional qualification, and a chance to make a real impact on UK businesses.
Three-year graduate programme – three strands
The Research Lab three-year graduate programme is designed to give you excellent experience in three key strands:
- Research – Ambitious, long-term research projects, creating the novel mathematics that will be the backbone of future audits.
- Consultations – Working alongside the software developers to ensure that mathematical best practice is threaded through all our apps.
- Tools – Creating mathematical solutions to common hurdles and writing software libraries to make these solutions available to the software developers.
You\’ll learn by doing, with plenty of support along the way.
- Own the Tools strand by taking the lead in understanding developer needs and designing smart mathematical solutions.
- Learn and apply Python building well-documented, self-contained software libraries that bring your ideas to life.
- Grow your mathematical expertise – dive into new fields and stay current with cutting-edge research.
- Collaborate across the lab – work closely with the lead researcher on both the Research and Consultations strands.
- Shape the lab\’s future by helping to define the culture, practices, and direction of the Research Lab in its early stages.
- Make a real impact using mathematics to enhance audit quality and improve the working lives of our auditors.
- Study with support, with dedicated time to study and a team behind you as you work towards your ACA qualification.
While we have preferred study routes, we\’re open to exploring other qualifications, accreditations or apprenticeships of your choice, provided it is relevant to the role. Typically, we expect graduates on this programme to study towards a Level 7 Applied Data Analytics Apprenticeship. More information on this can be found here.
Who we\’re looking for
We\’re looking for curious, analytical minds who are passionate about technology. You don\’t need to have all the answers right now, but you do need the drive to seek them out.
- Skills: A basic understanding of coding languages such as Python, SQL, or R is helpful, but not essential – a willingness to learn is key.
- Mindset: You enjoy solving complex problems, can work collaboratively in a small team, and thrive in an environment that encourages innovation.
- Education: While a mathematics degree is preferred, we also welcome those from diverse backgrounds who have a passion and aptitude for mathematics.
We\’ve got a flexible approach to academic entry requirements, and we\’ll consider these alongside your strengths and motivations. We\’re looking for people who want to contribute, spark fresh ideas, and go beyond expectations.
- Curious minds who explore ideas and ask thoughtful questions.
- Innovative problem solvers who think creatively, spot patterns, and turn data into meaningful insights.
- Collaborative partners who work respectfully and build trust with others.
- Effective communicators who listen, adapt, and express ideas clearly.
- Self-leaders who manage and flex their time, mindset, and energy effectively.
- Career-minded contributors who take initiative and are motivated to grow.
What you\’ll get
Kickstart your career with a structured three-year programme designed to give you real-world experience from day one.
- Fully funded professional qualification, including paid study leave, expert tuition, and all course fees covered.
- Technology to support your learning and client work.
- Dedicated support network, from experienced managers and mentors to college tutors who\’ll guide you every step of the way.
- Our approach to how we work helps you balance life, learning, and work.
- Exclusive discounts on shopping, gyms, and wellbeing services.
- Opportunities to give back through mentoring, volunteering, or fundraising initiatives.
- Competitive salary and benefits package, including:
- Extra holiday options (including flexible bank holidays and the option to purchase additional holidays)
- Life assurance
- Private medical insurance
What we expect from you
As part of your training with us, you\’ll be provided with study leave to support you with completing your professional qualification. Completing a professional qualification is a substantial commitment and it\’s worth taking this into consideration before applying, as you will be required to study in your spare time outside of your working hours. You\’ll also be provided with study leave in the run up to your exams. You\’ll need to be focused, committed, and organise your time well to balance all the requirements of being a trainee.
Join the firm that\’s shaping the accountants of the future.
We\’re growing fast, and we want you to grow with us. With digital-first innovation and an inclusive culture that powers progress, this is your chance to shape what\’s next.
This isn\’t just a graduate scheme.
It\’s the start of something bigger.
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AI Research Digital Audit Graduate Programme (Autumn 2026) - Southampton employer: Grant Thornton UK LLP
Contact Detail:
Grant Thornton UK LLP Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land AI Research Digital Audit Graduate Programme (Autumn 2026) - Southampton
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in machine learning and data analytics. This will not only help you understand the role better but also allow you to engage in meaningful conversations during interviews, showcasing your genuine interest in the field.
✨Tip Number 2
Connect with current or former employees of Grant Thornton on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and insights regarding the Digital Audit Team. This can provide you with valuable information that you can use to tailor your approach when applying.
✨Tip Number 3
Participate in relevant online forums or communities focused on data analytics and audit technology. Engaging in discussions and sharing your thoughts can help you build a network and demonstrate your passion for the subject matter.
✨Tip Number 4
Consider working on personal projects or contributing to open-source initiatives that involve Python or data analysis. This hands-on experience will not only enhance your skills but also give you concrete examples to discuss during interviews.
We think you need these skills to ace AI Research Digital Audit Graduate Programme (Autumn 2026) - Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant skills and experiences that align with the AI Research Digital Audit Graduate Programme. Emphasise any mathematical projects, coding experience, or teamwork in innovative environments.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for technology and mathematics. Mention specific examples of how you've solved complex problems or contributed to team projects, and express your enthusiasm for the role at Grant Thornton.
Showcase Your Curiosity: In your application, demonstrate your curiosity and willingness to learn. Discuss any relevant coursework, personal projects, or research that reflects your analytical mindset and eagerness to explore new ideas in the field of digital audit.
Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in the audit field.
How to prepare for a job interview at Grant Thornton UK LLP
✨Show Your Passion for Technology
Demonstrate your enthusiasm for technology and how it can transform the audit process. Be prepared to discuss any relevant projects or experiences that showcase your interest in machine learning or data analytics.
✨Highlight Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of complex problems you've solved, particularly those involving mathematics or coding. This will show your analytical mindset and ability to think creatively, which is crucial for the role.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Python and SQL
While you don't need to be an expert, having a basic understanding of Python and SQL will be beneficial. Brush up on these languages and be ready to discuss how you would apply them in real-world scenarios.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare insightful questions about the Digital Audit Team and the Research Lab. This shows your curiosity and genuine interest in the role, as well as your desire to contribute to the team's success.