At a Glance
- Tasks: Develop and validate machine learning models for speech processing using MRI data.
- Company: Join a leading research team at Lancaster University, focused on innovative speech science.
- Benefits: Flexible working arrangements, strong mentorship, and opportunities for publication.
- Other info: Access to rich datasets and high-performance computing facilities for creative research.
- Why this job: Shape cutting-edge methodologies and make a real impact in speech science and AI.
- Qualifications: Experience in machine learning and a passion for interdisciplinary research.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
About the Project
This Royal Society-funded project seeks to delve into the 'black box' of modern machine learning models that predict vocal tract shapes from audio recordings. The goal is to understand the intricate mapping between vocal tract movements and the acoustic speech signal. Utilizing state-of-the-art MRI recordings of the vocal tract during speech, the project aims to develop machine learning approaches that not only predict acoustic output but also reveal the underlying mechanisms. This requires hybrid machine learning (ML) approaches that integrate phonetic and physical domain knowledge with data-driven learning, alongside explainable AI (xAI) techniques to ensure model transparency and scientific validity. These approaches will be applied to a large database of real-time MRI and acoustic recordings. The outcomes will drive fundamental progress in critical applications like articulatory biofeedback for language learning and speech therapy.
Your Role
Working alongside Dr. Sam Kirkham (Lancaster, Speech Science), Dr. Anton Ragni (Sheffield, Computer Science), and Professor Aneta Stefanovska (Lancaster, Physics), you will be responsible for developing and validating interpretable Machine Learning approaches to model acoustic-articulatory relationships using MRI vocal tract data. This full-time position is available for 18 months, starting from July 1, 2026 (start date negotiable).
Key Objectives:
- Develop hybrid ML architectures that incorporate phonetic and physical constraints.
- Apply and extend explainable AI techniques for speech production modelling.
- Validate model interpretations against established knowledge.
- Lead and/or contribute to publications at the intersection of speech science and machine learning.
This role offers significant methodological creativity and intellectual ownership, providing access to rich MRI datasets and Lancaster's high-performance computing facilities.
Why This Role?
- Intellectual ownership – you will shape the methodology, not just implement it.
- Interdisciplinary impact – apply ML expertise to fundamental questions about human speech.
- Publication opportunities – strong potential for first-author papers bridging AI and speech science.
- Flexibility – flexible working arrangements are available.
- Strong mentorship – collaborate with researchers specializing in speech production, computational modelling, machine learning, and biophysics.
- Career development – build expertise at the growing intersection of interpretable AI and speech processing.
Senior Research Associate in Machine Learning for Speech Processing in Lancaster employer: Gravity Engineering Services Pvt Ltd.
As a leading research institution, we offer an exceptional environment for innovation and collaboration, particularly in the field of machine learning for speech processing. Our commitment to intellectual ownership and interdisciplinary impact empowers you to shape your research while benefiting from strong mentorship and access to cutting-edge resources. With flexible working arrangements and ample opportunities for career development, this role is perfect for those seeking meaningful contributions to both AI and speech science.
Contact Details:
Gravity Engineering Services Pvt Ltd. Recruitment Team
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We think this is how you could land Senior Research Associate in Machine Learning for Speech Processing in Lancaster
✨Get Involved in Research Communities
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✨Utilise Professional Networks
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We think you need these skills to ace Senior Research Associate in Machine Learning for Speech Processing in Lancaster
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Research Experience:When applying for a full-time role in scientific research, make sure to emphasise your research experience prominently in your CV. Share specific projects you’ve worked on, the methodologies you used, and any significant findings. If you’ve published papers or presented at conferences, definitely include that too – it shows you’re on it in the academic world!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Research Area:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the specific area of research at Gravity Engineering Services Pvt Ltd.. Mention relevant experiences that align with the organisation’s goals or projects. This shows that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the position – plus, it helps us see how you’d fit into the team dynamics.
Showcase Your Data Analysis Skills:In scientific research, data analysis skills are a big deal! Make sure to detail any relevant analytical tools or software you’re familiar with, like R, Python, or statistical packages. Employers are keen to know you can handle the data-heavy elements of the role, so add specific examples where you’ve used these skills effectively.
Discuss Your Future Research Goals:In your motivation section, it’s a great idea to talk about your future research goals and how they align with the work being done at Gravity Engineering Services Pvt Ltd.. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but rather a chance to contribute meaningfully to the field. We love to see applicants who are forward-thinking and enthusiastic about their research journey!
How to prepare for a job interview at Gravity Engineering Services Pvt Ltd.
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
In scientific research, it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to design and conduct experiments. Come armed with examples of past projects where you've developed hypotheses, collected data, and analysed results. Be ready to discuss any specific methodologies or tools you’ve used, like PCR techniques or statistical software.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions specific to your field. Make sure you're up to speed with recent advancements in scientific research related to the role at Gravity Engineering Services Pvt Ltd.. Brush up on concepts relevant to their projects and be prepared to discuss how you would approach a specific research problem or challenge they might face.
✨Know Your Publications
If you've authored or co-authored any papers, be prepared to discuss them! Highlighting your contributions to published research can really set you apart. It shows not only your expertise but also your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly, which is key in scientific research roles.
✨Exhibit Your Team Spirit
In full-time roles, collaboration is often at the heart of scientific research. Prepare examples that show how you've successfully worked in teams, dealt with conflicts, or contributed to group projects. We want to know how you can work effectively with the team at Gravity Engineering Services Pvt Ltd. to drive research projects forward.
