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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct cutting-edge research in AI to accelerate chemical development.
- Company: Join a world-leading institution with a vibrant, multi-national team.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 41 days off, generous pension, and career support.
- Other info: Full-time, fixed-term contract with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in AI and chemistry while collaborating with top experts.
- Qualifications: Strong background in AI, with experience in reinforcement learning and computational argumentation.
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, have experience, including a proven publication track‑record, in at least two of the following areas, as well as ability and willingness to become familiar with the others: 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 [...] 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 [...]
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the AI and chemistry fields. Attend relevant conferences or workshops, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself to potential collaborators or mentors. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your projects, publications, and any relevant research. This is your chance to demonstrate your expertise in reinforcement learning and computational argumentation. Make it easy for employers to see what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of argumentative agentic AI and its applications in chemical development. Be ready to discuss how your background aligns with the role and how you can contribute to the team’s goals. Practice common interview questions to boost your confidence!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, keep an eye on our updates for new opportunities that match your skills. We’re here to help you land that dream job!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant / Research Associate in Leveraging Ontological Knowledge with Argumentative [...]
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your 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 research statement should be engaging and reflect your understanding of the role. Share your thoughts on interesting research issues and how your expertise can contribute to our projects. This is your chance to shine!
Show Off Your Communication Skills: Since collaboration is key in our team, demonstrate your excellent communication skills in your application. Whether it's through your CV or research statement, let us know how you work well with others.
Apply Early!: We might close the advert early if we get a lot of applications, so don’t wait! Apply through our website as soon as you can to ensure your application is considered. We can't wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at SONICOM
✨Know Your Research
Dive deep into the specifics of argumentative agentic AI and its applications in chemical development. Familiarise yourself with recent publications from the CLArg research group and the AIChemy Hub to demonstrate your genuine interest and understanding during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare to discuss your experience in reinforcement learning, computational argumentation, and multi-agent systems. Be ready to provide examples of your past work, especially any publications, and how they relate to the role you're applying for.
✨Engage with the Team
Since collaboration is key in this role, think about how you can contribute to a multi-national team. Prepare questions about the team dynamics and how you can integrate your skills with those of your colleagues from different institutions.
✨Prepare Your Research Statement
Craft a concise yet compelling research statement that highlights your vision for future research in this area. Be prepared to discuss it in detail, focusing on how your expertise aligns with the goals of the project and the broader objectives of the research group.