Artificial Intelligence Specialist for Autonomous Systems - KTP Associate

Location: Aurrigo International Plc, 33 Bilton Industrial Estate, Humber Avenue, Conventry, CV3 1JL

Contract Type: Fixed Term (36 months)

Aurrigo International Plc, a leading provider of transport technology solutions, is collaborating with Aston University on a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) project aimed at developing an advanced, decentralised software platform to optimise airport baggage and cargo-handling autonomous vehicles (AVs). The project seeks to transition operations from human-controlled systems to an autonomous command-and-control structure, enhancing efficiency and scalability.

Role:

The KTP Associate will play a pivotal role in researching, developing, and optimising machine learning algorithms, including deep learning, for AV control and coordination. Key responsibilities include applying multi-agent systems to enhance decision-making and task delegation, integrating and testing algorithms within Aurrigo’s software and control systems, conducting evaluations through simulation and real-world testing, and contributing to dissemination, reporting, and collaboration with industry and academic partners. The associate will also support project management and adapt to evolving priorities.

Candidate Profile:

The ideal candidate will possess a PhD in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, or a closely related field. Essential skills and experience include a strong understanding of machine learning algorithms, particularly deep and federated learning, expertise in multi-agent systems and decentralised coordination, experience with simulation techniques for complex systems, strong analytical and problem-solving skills, project management experience including familiarity with Agile methodologies, and proficiency in relevant programming languages such as Python, C++, or MATLAB. Desirable attributes include industrial experience in autonomous vehicle systems, familiarity with Partially Observable Markov Decision Processes (POMDPs), knowledge of Game Theory principles, and experience with Federated Learning.

Personal Attributes:

The associate should demonstrate strong interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills, leadership qualities, resilience, autonomy in organisation, and effective time management to deliver the KTP project and achieve planned milestones and objectives. The ability to work independently and use initiative is essential.

Benefits and Support:

The position offers up to £6,000 for personal and professional development over the duration of the project, 25 days of annual leave, and professional support and mentorship. Additional mental health and wellbeing support is also provided. Aston University is committed to the principles of the Athena SWAN Charter and guarantees to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the vacancy.

Career Prospects:

Approximately 60% of KTP associates are offered employment by the companies at the end of the KTP, providing a pathway to further career opportunities.

Company and Location:

Aurrigo International Plc is based in Coventry (CV3 1JL), with access to facilities at Aston University in central Birmingham. The project team includes Dr Farzaneh Farhadi, Dr Maria Chli, and Prof Maia Angelova from Aston University, alongside the Senior Management Team at Aurrigo, with support from Innovate UK’s Knowledge Transfer Adviser. Some travel to Birmingham and key clients may be required.

Application:

For informal enquiries about this role, please contact Dr Farzaneh Farhadi at f.farhadi@aston.ac.uk. To learn more about KTPs and to apply, please visit www.aston.ac.uk/ktp. For further information and to apply on-line, please click the above “Apply” button.

This is a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) funded by Aurrigo International Plc and Innovate UK.

Closing Date: 23.59 hours BST on Monday 23 June 2025

Interview Date:  To be confirmed

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