Data Scientist, EME

This is a fantastic opportunity for a Data Scientist to join The Alan Turing Institute's Defence & Security programme, working within the Electromagnetic Environment team to apply AI, machine learning and data science to complex real-world challenges in the radio frequency domain. The role will focus on investigating emerging technologies, developing proof-of-concept solutions, and translating cutting-edge research into practical applications that support defence and security partners.

Working closely with researchers, engineers and stakeholders, the postholder will contribute to experimental projects, communicate findings through reports and presentations, and help advance innovative approaches in a collaborative, mission-driven environment.

Your Profile

We’re looking for a technically strong data scientist with experience in machine learning, AI or radio frequency signal analysis, and a track record of applying advanced methods to complex real-world problems. The ideal candidate will bring strong programming skills, ideally in Python, an understanding of good software and reproducible research practices, and experience working with stakeholders to shape and deliver impactful technical work. They’ll be an effective communicator who can explain complex ideas clearly, work independently as well as collaboratively, and thrive in an agile, research-led environment where experimentation, learning and innovation are central. A background in areas such as physics, engineering, mathematics, communications, radar or data science would be especially valuable, along with the ability to obtain UK Security Clearance.

Duties and Areas of Responsibilities

• Engage with scientists from the EME’s Defence and Security partners to learn their aims and requirements and understand and identify problems they face.
• Apply state-of-the-art Machine Learning, Data Science, and radio frequency techniques emerging from the Institute, broader academia and industry to problems faced by EME partners, both as part of unclassified EME projects and on partner systems.
• Perform rigorous investigations into new algorithms and applications, providing consultancy to inform our Partners decisions and developing high-quality proof-of-concept outputs which can be deployed in real-world situations.
• Design and carry out rigorous experimentation and development with some guidance from Principal staff, both alone and in small teams, and guiding collaborations to success.
• Present, disseminate and explain our work via presentations, reports and workshops.
• Liaise with clients and colleagues to understand and prioritise project goals, balancing client value with research outputs.

Application Procedure

If you are interested in this opportunity, please click the apply button below. You will need to register on the applicant portal and complete the application form including your CV and covering letter. If you have questions about the role or would like to apply using a different format, please contact us.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: THURSDAY 30 APRIL AT 23:59 (LONDON, UK BST)

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early or to interview suitable candidates before the closing date if enough applications are received.

Terms and Conditions

This full-time post is offered on a fixed-term basis for 3 years. The annual salary is £45,505-£51,241 plus excellent benefits, including flexible working and family friendly policies.

The Alan Turing Institute is based at the British Library, in the heart of London’s Knowledge Quarter. We expect staff to come to our office at least 4 days per month. Some roles may require more days in the office; the hiring manager will be able to confirm this during the interview.

Security Clearance

Must be eligible to hold a UK SC clearance and secure SC clearance within 6 months of the commencement of their employment, or in such longer period as the Institute may in its absolute discretion consider reasonable to obtain such clearance. Successful applicants will be subject to a Dstl research workers check at offer stage.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

We value diversity of background, experience, and perspective, and are proud to be an inclusive employer. We warmly encourage applications from all backgrounds, particularly from groups currently under-represented in our sector. If you feel passionate about this role but don’t meet every single requirement, please apply - we recognise that great candidates may bring strengths beyond the criteria listed. We are committed to making sure our recruitment process is accessible and inclusive. This includes making reasonable adjustments for candidates who have a disability or long-term condition.