Research Scientist (Generative AI) - KTP Associate

University of the West of Scotland – University of the West of Scotland in Partnership with Lochlie Construction Group

Fixed term: 30 months

Full time: 39 hours per week

Opportunity to register free of charge for a Higher Degree (Ph.D.)

Gain management experience and training

Apply your degree and lead your own project in a business

University of the West of Scotland (UWS) and Lochlie Construction Group are offering an exciting opportunity to a postgraduate in Computer Science/Software Engineering/Information Technology or with a relevant degree involving a significant amount of software development to support Lochlie Construction Group. You will assist in the transforming of Lochlie Construction Group’s operations through advanced digital technologies. The project will leverage native machine learning, natural language processing, cloud-native applications, and deep learning to develop and deploy a scalable, cost-effective large language model (LLM). This AI-driven solution aims to enhance business productivity, improve competitiveness, and support long-term sustainable growth. By integrating Agentic AI technologies for workflow automation, the initiative will drive innovation, increase operational efficiency, and position Lochlie as a frontrunner in digitally enabled construction solutions.

You should possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills, as well as the ability to work independently and as part of a high-performance team, collaborating with colleagues and sharing expertise. You will be able to demonstrate a proven interest in machine learning and NLP along with a sound knowledge of the C/C++/Python programming language.

The successful candidate will be offered the opportunity to register free of charge for a Higher Degree (Masters or Ph.D.), receive training in Chartered Management Institute (level 5), work with senior company management to realise benefits to the business and apply their degree and lead their own project in a business environment.

Lochlie Construction Group was founded in 2014 and delivers a fully integrated construction and project management service. From groundworks to electrics, Lochlie offers a complete solution - building homes from the ground up while also advising on and installing renewable technologies such as solar PV, air source heat pumps, and EV charging points. Offering construction and refurbishment services for both private domestic and commercial clients, as well as ongoing maintenance across the public and private sectors. Their in-house team also develops tailored, data-driven renewable energy solutions for commercial projects.

In addition, Lochlie offers steel building solutions to the commercial market, working in partnership with the UK’s leading suppliers of steel and cladding systems. Find out more by visiting: www.lochlie.co.uk

Given the strategic important of the project, Lochlie Construction Group’s management have indicated their intention to retain the associate post-KTP subject to performance.

About KTP:

This position forms part of the Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) funded by Innovate UK. It’s essential you understand how KTP works with business and the University, and the vital role you will play if you successfully secure a KTP Associate position. Please visit: www.uws.ac.uk/business/knowledge-expertise/knowledge-transfer-partnerships or contact Stuart McKay (stuart.mckay@uws.ac.uk)

If you have questions about this vacancy contact:

T: Prof Naeem Ramzan, 0141 848 3648 or Douglas Aitken

E: naeem.ramzan@uws.ac.uk or Douglas.Aitken@lochlie.co.uk

Interviews: Week commencing 28^th July 2025

Please note that the appointment will be made on the first point of the salary scale (unless by exception, where evidence would need to be provided)

The University reserves the right to shorten/extend the closing date of any position where a high/low volume of suitable applications are received. Therefore, if you are interested in this role, an early application would be encouraged.

You can find out more about how the University uses your personal data as part of the recruitment process by looking at the UWS HR Applicant Privacy Notice at www.uws.ac.uk

UWS are committed signatories to the Armed Forces Covenant.

UWS is committed to equality and diversity and welcomes applications from underrepresented groups.

UWS is a “Disability Confident” employer.

University of the West of Scotland is a registered Scottish charity, no. SC002520.