At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development of a Rural Crime Information Platform using AI and geospatial analytics.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking organisation focused on impactful rural community solutions.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience, mentorship, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in rural communities while working with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: Postgraduate degree in a quantitative field and strong Python skills required.
- Other info: Enjoy a dynamic role with autonomy and support in a collaborative environment.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
This role will lead the technical development of a Rural Crime Information Platform, integrating social media intelligence, large language models (LLMs), geospatial analytics, and behavioural science to generate actionable insights for rural communities, insurers, and stakeholders. The postholder will design and implement end-to-end data pipelines, develop AI models to extract structured intelligence from unstructured social media data, build spatial risk models, and translate these outputs into a secure, user-facing web application. The role blends data engineering, applied AI, geostatistics and socio‑behavioural modelling, supported by academic supervision and commercial mentoring. This is a high‑impact, technically ambitious role at the interface of research and product development. The role will require significant autonomy and responsibility, and the postholder will be expected to operate with a high degree of technical independence while being supported through structured training and governance.
Key Responsibilities
- The KTP Associate will work closely with farmers, insurers, and rural stakeholders to ensure the platform is grounded in real‑world needs and delivers meaningful value.
- By incorporating behavioural and criminological insights and leading participatory design activities, they will help shape a system that is practical, trusted, and easy to use.
- They will also maintain high quality documentation, contribute to academic and technical outputs, and support commercialisation and deployment activities as the platform moves from research into field testing and real‑world application.
Technical Skills, Qualifications & Attributes
- Candidates should hold a postgraduate degree in a quantitative or computational field and have strong Python skills.
- Experience with AI or NLP methods, including LLMs cloud platforms, containerisation, APIs, relational databases and data pipelines is essential.
- Skills in geospatial analysis, GIS tools, frontend development or data visualisation are advantageous, as is familiarity with user‑centred or behavioural research.
- The role requires analytical strength, clear communication across disciplines, and the ability to tackle open‑ended technical challenges with independence and creativity.
Pre‑employment screening: Due to Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) requirements, we can only consider applicants who hold existing Right to Work status in the UK. Proof of RTW will be required prior to any offer being confirmed.
Application Procedure: All applications should be completed and submitted using the Harper Adams e‑Recruitment programme at http://jobs.harper-adams.ac.uk to be completed no later than midnight on 19 April 2026. If you would like an informal conversation about this role, you can contact Dr Joseph Mhango on jmhango@harper-adams.ac.uk. Should you require any adjustments to complete your application for this role then please contact vacancies@harper-adams.ac.uk.
Applied Data Scientist in AI & Geospatial Intelligence (KTP Associate) employer: Harper Adams University
Contact Detail:
Harper Adams University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Applied Data Scientist in AI & Geospatial Intelligence (KTP Associate)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, especially those working in AI and geospatial intelligence. A friendly chat can lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your projects, especially those involving Python, AI models, or geospatial analysis. This gives potential employers a taste of what you can do.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge and soft skills. Be ready to discuss how you can tackle real-world problems using your expertise in data science and behavioural insights.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and contributing to impactful projects.
We think you need these skills to ace Applied Data Scientist in AI & Geospatial Intelligence (KTP Associate)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the job description. Highlight your Python skills, experience with AI or NLP methods, and any relevant projects you've worked on. We want to see how you can contribute to our Rural Crime Information Platform!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how your background aligns with our mission. Don’t forget to mention your understanding of geospatial analytics and behavioural science – we love seeing that enthusiasm!
Showcase Your Technical Skills: Since this role is quite technical, make sure to include specific examples of your work with data pipelines, AI models, and any geospatial tools you've used. We’re looking for candidates who can demonstrate their technical independence and creativity in tackling challenges.
Apply Through Our Website: Remember to submit your application through the Harper Adams e-Recruitment programme. It’s super easy and ensures your application gets to the right place. Plus, if you have any questions, feel free to reach out for an informal chat!
How to prepare for a job interview at Harper Adams University
✨Know Your Tech Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the technical skills listed in the job description, especially Python, AI methods, and data pipelines. Brush up on your knowledge of geospatial analysis and GIS tools, as these will likely come up during the interview.
✨Showcase Real-World Applications
Prepare examples of how you've applied your skills in real-world scenarios, particularly in projects that involve social media intelligence or rural community engagement. This will demonstrate your ability to translate technical work into practical solutions.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Since the role requires clear communication across disciplines, practice explaining complex concepts in simple terms. Be ready to discuss how you would engage with farmers and insurers to ensure the platform meets their needs.
✨Emphasise Your Independence and Creativity
Highlight instances where you’ve tackled open-ended challenges independently. Discuss your approach to problem-solving and how you’ve used creativity in your past projects, as this role demands a high degree of autonomy.