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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct cutting-edge research in AI to accelerate chemical development using argumentative agentic AI.
- Company: Join a world-leading institution with a vibrant, multi-national research team.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, 41 days off, and excellent career support.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for promotion and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in AI and chemistry while collaborating with top experts.
- Qualifications: Strong background in computer science, AI experience, and a Master's or PhD required.
The predicted salary is between 43863 - 47223 £ per year.
This post of Research Assistant (pre-doctoral) or Research Associate (post-doctoral) is to conduct world-leading research on Leveraging Ontological Knowledge with Argumentative Agentic AI to Accelerate Chemical Development under the direction of Prof Francesca Toni, in collaboration with Prof Alexei Lapkin from the University of Cambridge, Dr Antonio Rago from King’s College London, and industrial collaborators, within the AIChemy Hub.
The successful candidate will focus on developing an advanced argumentative agentic AI approach for chemical development settings based on reinforcement learning but able to shape rewards with the help of ontological knowledge of chemical process development as well as expert knowledge from humans and from other agents. The approach will be based on and will develop techniques from computational argumentation combined with reinforcement learning. The argumentative agents will be able to interact with other such agents using methodologies for argumentative exchanges developed at King’s College London.
What you would be doing
The position offers an exciting opportunity for conducting internationally leading and impactful research in AI. The Research Assistant/Associate will be responsible for researching, shaping and delivering solutions based on argumentative agentic AI in a variety of settings (formats, models and data), and will be expected to submit publications to top-tier conferences and journals in AI as well as Chemistry and Chemical Engineering.
The successful applicant will join the CLArg research group, led by Prof Toni: this is a friendly, vibrant, multi-national team working on various aspects of argumentation-based explainable AI. The successful applicant will need to interact and collaborate with the other partners from the University of Cambridge, King’s College London and industry, as well as to engage with others with expertise in AI and/or chemistry.
What we are looking for
- A strong computer science background with a focus on AI, with experience, including a proven publication track record, in at least two of the following areas: reinforcement learning, computational argumentation, multi-agent systems, ontologies.
- A Master’s degree (Research Assistant) or PhD degree (Research Associate) in computer science or a related area.
- Familiarity with standard reinforcement learning libraries/data analysis.
- Excellent communication skills and ability to work with others.
- Ability to organise your own work and set priorities to meet deadlines.
- Willingness to travel to conferences and meetings.
What we can offer you
- The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution and be part of our mission to continue science for humanity.
- Grow your career: gain access to Imperial’s sector-leading dedicated career support for researchers as well as opportunities for promotion and progression.
- Sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 41 days off a year and generous pension schemes).
- Be part of a diverse, inclusive and collaborative work culture with various staff networks and resources to support your personal and professional wellbeing.
Further information
Full-time, Fixed-term contract to start July 2026 or soon after for up to 24 months. Candidates who have not yet been officially awarded their PhD but are in the process of obtaining one will be appointed as Research Assistant within the salary range £43,863-£47,223 per annum.
In addition to completing the online application candidates should attach:
- A full CV with a list of all publications
- A 2-page research statement indicating what you see as interesting research issues relating to the above post and why your expertise is relevant.
Please note that job descriptions are not exhaustive, and you may be asked to take on additional duties that align with the key responsibilities mentioned above. We reserve the right to close the advert prior to the closing date stated should we receive a high volume of applications. It is therefore advisable that you submit your application as early as possible to avoid disappointment.
Research Assistant / Research Associate in Leveraging Ontological Knowledge with Argumentative [...] in London employer: SONICOM
Contact Detail:
SONICOM Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Assistant / Research Associate in Leveraging Ontological Knowledge with Argumentative [...] in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those connected to the research group or institutions you're interested in. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion! When you get the chance to speak with potential employers, let your enthusiasm for AI and chemistry shine through. Share your ideas on how you can contribute to their projects and make an impact.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into the latest research in argumentative agentic AI and reinforcement learning. Being well-versed in current trends will help you stand out and show that you're ready to hit the ground running.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant / Research Associate in Leveraging Ontological Knowledge with Argumentative [...] in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in AI, reinforcement learning, and computational argumentation. We want to see how your background aligns with the exciting research we're doing!
Craft a Compelling Research Statement: Your 2-page research statement should not only showcase your expertise but also reflect your passion for the field. Let us know what interesting research issues you see and how you can contribute to our team.
Show Off Your Communication Skills: Since collaboration is key in our multi-national team, make sure to demonstrate your excellent communication skills in your application. We love candidates who can engage effectively with others!
Apply Early!: We might close the advert early if we get a lot of applications, so don’t wait! Head over to our website and submit your application as soon as you can to avoid missing out on this fantastic opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at SONICOM
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of reinforcement learning, computational argumentation, and multi-agent systems. Be ready to discuss how these areas relate to the role and your previous work. Having specific examples from your research or projects will show that you're not just familiar with the concepts but can apply them too.
✨Show Your Collaborative Spirit
Since this role involves working with a diverse team across different institutions, highlight your teamwork skills. Prepare examples of past collaborations, especially those involving interdisciplinary work. This will demonstrate your ability to engage with experts from AI and chemistry, which is crucial for this position.
✨Prepare Your Research Statement
You’ll need to submit a 2-page research statement, so make it count! Clearly outline interesting research issues related to the role and explain why your expertise is relevant. This is your chance to showcase your passion and vision for the field, so be specific and engaging.
✨Practice Your Communication Skills
Excellent communication is key in this role. Practice explaining complex ideas in simple terms, as you may need to interact with non-experts. Consider doing mock interviews with friends or colleagues to refine your ability to articulate your thoughts clearly and confidently.