Research Software Engineer - Defence & Security AI

Please note, this post is fixed-term for 18 months and full-time at 1 FTE.

The Centre for Defence & Security AI (CDSAI) at the University of Lincoln is seeking to appoint a Research Software Engineer in Artificial Intelligence (AI). CDSAI is a new university research and innovation centre launched in 2024, strongly linked to the UK’s defence and security establishment (military, government, industry) at national and regional levels. The growth of the Centre is a university priority and investment is being made in hiring an excellent team to drive its success.

Well-organised and open-minded software engineers keen to build advanced AI systems and contribute to good research software development practices are strongly encouraged to apply. You should hold a PhD or equivalent and must be able to demonstrate an excellent track record in one or more areas of research software engineering involving AI. You will need to be a confident and adaptable communicator with a clear understanding of research software engineering tools and principles, fundamental aspects of Dev Ops and high-performance computing, and be able to work on group software projects using modern tools and environments. Interest in applying AI within the defence and security sectors is essential, but experience in these domains is not required.

The position offers the opportunity to engage in collaboration within an ambitious team, to work with state-of-the-art equipment, and to benefit from excellent support to produce and disseminate original research contributions and otherwise make a meaningful impact. Involvement in securing additional funding for CDSAI will be encouraged, and centre members will be happy to support any such activity.

Please note that we are also advertising for a Research Software Engineer and there are 2 posts available in total at this level.

You must be willing to go through UK national security vetting processes.

For informal enquiries and more information about this exciting opportunity, please contact Professor Fiona Strens, Director of the Centre for Defence & Security AI, at fstrens@lincoln.ac.uk.

Further details:

• Job Description and Person Specification

We strive for a diverse workforce with the very best employees and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all. The University encourages applications from underrepresented groups inclusive of Black, Asian and other minoritised/marginalised ethnic groups, all gender identities and expressions from the LGBTQIA+ community, candidates with a disability, and those that practise different faiths and beliefs, to enhance our One Community where we strive to be kind, patient, and supportive of each other.

Please note: If you think you may require a visa to work in the UK, please refer to UK Visas and Immigration or UK Visas – Information for Prospective Staff before embarking upon an application, to ensure that you understand the requirements for sponsorship. You may be eligible to work in the UK via other alternative visa routes such as the Global Talent Visa or by having Settlement / ILR; please refer to the UK Visas pages above for further details.

Closing Date: Wednesday 20 August 2025
Interview Date: Thursday 04 September 2025

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