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- Tasks: Join a dynamic team researching neuro-symbolic AI and develop innovative algorithms and tools.
- Company: King’s College London, a leading institution in AI research with a collaborative environment.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, potential for contract extension, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in AI while working on cutting-edge technologies and contributing to open science.
- Qualifications: PhD in computer science or related field, with expertise in semantic technologies and AI.
- Other info: Flexible work options available and a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We are seeking to appoint a postdoctoral research associate with an excellent track record in semantic technologies and machine learning. Topics of interest in this area include, but are not limited to: natural language processing, large language models, graph learning, prompt engineering, knowledge graphs, knowledge engineering, linked data, web technologies.
About the role
The successful candidate will join the Distributed AI (DAI) group in the Department of Informatics, King’s College London. They will carry out research in neuro-symbolic AI, with a focus on using generative and agentic AI, as well as AI standards to create trustworthy information resources. This includes the design of algorithms, tools, and processes for knowledge workers to better organise knowledge bases and maintain the integrity of their information.
The post holder will work closely with Prof Elena Simperl and a team of 15+ researchers and PhD students in the area of human-centric AI. The role covers research in the areas mentioned above, as well as the production of scientific publications and application showcases to drive research impact. The researcher will be expected to support impact creation activities, including hackathons, workshops, tutorials and to actively contribute to ongoing AI standardisation efforts such as MLCommons Croissant.
The research and innovation outputs will inform work undertaken in the group in several large collaborative grants and application areas, including arts and culture, enterprise data management, legal compliance.
The ideal candidate will have solid expertise in the technical areas mentioned earlier, as well as a proven track record of scientific excellence (through publications in A and A* conferences and journals) and of open science and FAIR practices (through software, datasets and other research outputs, participation in challenges etc). Familiarity with semantic technologies and neuro-symbolic AI, in theory and practice, is a firm requirement.
The post is full-time, but we can discuss part-time options in exceptional circumstances. There is also the option to extend the contract beyond the 18 months provided funding is available.
About you
- PhD in computer science, AI or related area
- Proven experience of semantic technologies such as knowledge graphs, ontologies, data modelling, RDF, RDFS, OWL
- Proven experience with predictive and generative AI
- Practical experience in using large language models, generative AI techniques, prompt engineering
- Proven record of A/A* scientific publications and open science/FAIR practices
- Teamwork skills demonstrated e.g. through project work, organisation of joint events, co-authored papers etc.
- Time management and organisational skills, including experience in organizing small scientific workshops and similar
- Familiarity with the design of AI enabled tools, AI assistants, and agentic AI
- Familiarity and contributions to Wikipedia and/or Wikidata
- Understanding and practical experience with FAIR and open science practices
- Familiarity and contributions to AI or web standards
- Experience in scientific communication for non-academic audiences
- Familiarity with one or more of these application domains for neuro-symbolic AI: law, arts and culture, enterprise data management
- Track record of organising dissemination and community building events e.g. workshops or tutorials co-located with academic conferences
Please note that this is a PhD level role but candidates who have submitted their thesis and are awaiting award of their PhDs will be considered. In these circumstances the appointment will be made at Grade 5, spine point 30 with the title of Research Assistant. Upon confirmation of the award of the PhD, the job title will become Research Associate and the salary will increase to Grade 6.
At King’s, we believe that the diversity of our community and a culture that is welcoming, open, inclusive and collaborative, are great strengths of the university. The Equality Act of 2010 protects the rights of our students and staff and provides a framework to fulfil our duties to eliminate unlawful discrimination, harassment and victimisation and in addition, to advance equality of opportunity and foster good relations between those who share a protected characteristic and those who do not. At times, this will include balancing rights and beliefs that can feel in tension.
We are committed to free speech and to academic freedom, believing that our foundational purpose as a university, is to create spaces where a wide range of ideas, including ideas that are controversial, can be discussed and debated, and where members of our community can express lawful views without fear of intimidation, harassment or discrimination. When engaging in the robust exchange of ideas, we ask that our community is mindful of our Dignity at King’s guidance.
We ask all candidates to submit a copy of their CV, and a supporting statement, detailing how they meet the essential criteria listed in the person specification section of the job description.
Research Associate in Computer Science employer: Polytechnicpositions
Contact Detail:
Polytechnicpositions Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate in Computer Science
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those connected to the DAI group at King’s. Attend relevant events and workshops to make connections that could lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! Prepare a portfolio or a presentation that highlights your work in semantic technologies and machine learning. This will help you stand out during interviews and discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your responses, especially around your experience with AI standards and neuro-symbolic AI. The more comfortable you are, the better you'll perform.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at King’s College London.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate in Computer Science
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your experience in semantic technologies and machine learning. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing relevant projects or publications!
Craft a Compelling Supporting Statement: Your supporting statement is your chance to shine! Use it to explain how you meet the essential criteria listed in the job description. Be specific about your experience with AI standards and neuro-symbolic AI – we love details!
Show Off Your Teamwork Skills: Since this role involves collaboration, make sure to mention any teamwork experiences you've had. Whether it's co-authoring papers or organising workshops, we want to know how you’ve contributed to team success!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy – just click ‘Apply Now’ and follow the prompts!
How to prepare for a job interview at Polytechnicpositions
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on semantic technologies and machine learning concepts. Be ready to discuss your experience with knowledge graphs, large language models, and generative AI techniques. The interviewers will likely ask for specific examples from your past work, so have those stories ready!
✨Showcase Your Research Impact
Prepare to talk about your scientific publications and how they contribute to the field. Highlight any open science practices you've engaged in, like sharing datasets or participating in challenges. This shows that you're not just about theory but also about making a real-world impact.
✨Team Player Vibes
Since you'll be working closely with a team of researchers, it's crucial to demonstrate your teamwork skills. Share experiences where you've collaborated on projects, organised events, or co-authored papers. This will show that you can thrive in a collaborative environment.
✨Be Ready for Practical Questions
Expect some practical questions related to designing algorithms or tools for knowledge workers. Think about how you would approach creating trustworthy information resources using neuro-symbolic AI. Being able to articulate your thought process will impress the interviewers.
