At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative AI research to enhance biodiversity science and engage with diverse ecological data.
- Company: Join UCL's Division of Biosciences, a hub for cutting-edge biological research.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic role with potential for interdisciplinary collaboration and external engagement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on biodiversity through AI while collaborating with top researchers.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant field and strong quantitative skills in AI and biodiversity.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
The Division of Biosciences at UCL is a major centre for research and teaching in the biological sciences, fostering curiosity-driven research that spans molecules to ecosystems. Within Biosciences, the Research Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment (GEE) provides a world-leading environment for research and teaching across evolution, human genetics, healthy ageing, biodiversity and computational biology.
We are recruiting a Lecturer (Assistant Professor equivalent) or Associate Professor in Artificial Intelligence for Biodiversity Science to strengthen GEE’s capacity in AI-enabled, data-driven and predictive biodiversity science, supporting the growth of the Centre for Biodiversity and Environment Research’s People and Nature Lab at UCL East. This role also forms part of AI for Life, a major programme across Biosciences in computational and artificial intelligence-driven life sciences.
Rapid environmental change is transforming biodiversity and ecosystems worldwide, but our ability to process and integrate diverse ecological, environmental and genomic data to generate robust, decision-relevant insights remains limited. To address this, GEE seeks to appoint a new academic colleague to help define the next generation of biodiversity science through the development and application of AI.
Based at the People and Nature Lab at UCL East, the successful candidate will develop novel and/or apply AI-enabled approaches to ecological, genomic and environmental data. This may include work with vision and acoustic sensors, genomic and other -omics data, remote sensing data, LiDAR, multimodal and spatiotemporal modelling, foundation models, interpretable AI or related approaches.
The successful candidate will establish (Grade 8) or expand (Grade 9) an independent, collaborative research programme within GEE with opportunities to contribute to a distinctive living lab environment at UCL East, and work across UCL with colleagues in computer science, geography, and health. We also welcome exceptional applicants working at the broader interface linked to other GEE research, provided they demonstrate strong quantitative and data science expertise and a clear vision for advancing the field.
The post holder will be expected to secure competitive research funding, supervise and mentor postgraduate researchers, contribute to research-led teaching and develop external engagement with conservation organisations, policy bodies and other partners.
You will have a PhD or equivalent qualification in a relevant field and an innovative research agenda in AI for biodiversity science, or in a closely related area at the interface of biodiversity, ecosystems and people, with clear quantitative and data science strength. You will have experience of research-led teaching at undergraduate and/or postgraduate level, with a strong interest in interdisciplinary working, external engagement and translational impact. You will also show the potential to build collaborative partnerships, attract research funding, and contribute to an inclusive and ambitious academic environment.
Lecturer / Associate Professor of AI for Biodiversity Science employer: UCL
UCL's Division of Biosciences offers an exceptional work environment for those passionate about advancing biodiversity science through AI. With a strong commitment to research-led teaching and interdisciplinary collaboration, employees benefit from a vibrant academic culture that fosters innovation and inclusivity. Located at UCL East, the role provides unique opportunities for professional growth, engagement with conservation organisations, and access to cutting-edge resources in a supportive community dedicated to impactful research.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lecturer / Associate Professor of AI for Biodiversity Science
✨Explore University Career Fairs
University career fairs are gold mines, especially for biology roles. We should hit up these events, connect with potential employers like UCL, and get the inside scoop on full-time opportunities. Plus, it's a fab way to showcase our passion for the field!
✨Join Biology Communities
Get involved in local biology associations or online forums—these are great for networking and hearing about job openings before they hit the mainstream. Engaging in meaningful discussions can help us stand out and get noticed by hiring managers in the biology sector.
✨Attend Industry Conferences
Plan to attend biology-related conferences or workshops. These events are perfect for making connections, learning about the latest research, and even finding out which companies, like UCL, are expanding and hiring full-time positions. Don't forget to bring your business cards!
✨Show Off Your Research Skills
When you land that interview, be ready to flaunt your research experience and practical skills. Discuss any lab work, projects, or internships that demonstrate your expertise in biology. We want to make sure the interviewers see exactly why we're a great fit for the role at UCL.
We think you need these skills to ace Lecturer / Associate Professor of AI for Biodiversity Science
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Lab Skills:In the biology field, it's super important to highlight any relevant lab skills. Make sure to include techniques you’ve mastered, like PCR or chromatography, right in your CV. This helps us see your hands-on experience and how you can contribute at UCL.
Tailor Your Cover Letter with Passion:When writing your cover letter, let your enthusiasm for biology shine through! Share specific examples of projects or research that fuel your passion. It’s the perfect way to convey your motivation and fit for the role of Lecturer / Associate Professor of AI for Biodiversity Science at UCL.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you’ve got any certifications related to biology—like Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) or even specific software for data analysis—be sure to mention those. They can really set you apart from other applicants and show us you’re dedicated to your professional development.
Highlight Team Projects and Communication Skills:Biology often involves collaboration, so don’t shy away from mentioning any team projects you've worked on in your CV. Emphasise how you communicated findings or contributed in group settings. This gives us insight into how you’d fit into our team at UCL.
How to prepare for a job interview at UCL
✨Brush Up on Your Technical Knowledge
Get ready to dive deep into the scientific concepts related to your field! For a biology role, you'll likely face questions about experimental design, data analysis techniques, and possibly even lab protocols. Make sure you're clear on your coursework and any practical experiences you've had.
✨Show Off Your Lab Skills
Hands-on experience can make or break an interview in biology. Be prepared to discuss your previous lab work, including techniques like PCR, gel electrophoresis, or microscopy. Bring a portfolio of your lab reports or relevant projects to really impress the hiring team at UCL.
✨Communicate Your Passion for Biology
As this is a full-time position, employers at UCL are looking for someone who is not just qualified, but truly enthusiastic about biology. Be ready to share specific moments or projects that ignited your interest in the field. A personal story can really set you apart!
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Don’t underestimate the power of behavioural questions! Expect to discuss situations from your studies or internships where you showed teamwork, problem-solving, or conflict resolution. This is your chance to show that you're not only a great biologist but also a great colleague!
