Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) Programme Manager

Fixed Term until October 2028

Are you passionate about inclusive innovation, strategic leadership, and the transformative potential of AI in digital media? If so, we would love to hear from you.

The Surrey Institute for People-Centred AI (PAI) is seeking an exceptional CDT Programme Manager to lead the delivery and operations of the UKRI-funded Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) in AI for Digital Media Inclusion. This dynamic role is central to empowering the next generation of PhD researchers who aim to build inclusive AI technologies that reflect and serve the needs of all people.

About the Role:

As CDT Programme Manager, you will:

• Lead, plan, and deliver all operational and strategic activities across our two partner universities, ensuring high standards and responsible governance and accountability throughout.
• Serve as the first point of contact for a wide range of stakeholders – PhD researchers, academic colleagues, and industry collaborators.
• Work closely with the CDT leadership and the PAI Director of Strategy to align efforts with Surrey’s mission in People-Centred AI.

About You:

We are looking for someone who:

• Thrives in complex, collaborative, cross-institutional environments.
• Brings significant experience in programme/project management, ideally in research, innovation, or higher education.
• Communicates with clarity, empathy and professionalism.
• Is committed to creating equitable, inclusive, and accessible opportunities for researchers, colleagues, and communities.
• Has a proactive attitude driven by enthusiasm for AI and creative technologies.

WHY JOIN US? 

At the Surrey Institute for People-Centred AI, we believe in a future where AI works for everyone. This role offers a unique opportunity to influence how the next wave of AI research contributes to a fairer, more inclusive digital society. Watch our short introductory video:

This role offers a unique opportunity to influence how the next wave of AI research contributes to a fairer, more inclusive society.

Apply now and help us build a future where AI-enabled digital media is reflective, responsible, and truly inclusive.

Applications closing date: 1 December 2025

Interviews: 17 December 2025 

For informal enquiries contact:

Elizabeth James (e.james@surrey.ac.uk) or Adrian Hilton (A.Hilton@Surrey.ac.uk)

We welcome applications from people from all backgrounds, identities and lived experiences.

Further details and Benefits

We offer a supportive and inclusive working environment, along with:

• A generous pension
• Relocation assistance (where appropriate)
• Flexible working options, including blended home/campus arrangements
• Access to outstanding campus leisure facilities
• Travel schemes and comprehensive family-friendly benefits, including an excellent onsite nursery
• We support flexible working arrangements.
• We are proud to be a Disability Confident and Equal Opportunities employer.

For more information and to apply online, please download the further details and click on the 'apply online' button.

Further details

We can offer a generous remuneration package, which includes relocation assistance where appropriate, an attractive research environment, the latest teaching facilities, and access to a variety of staff development opportunities.

The University of Surrey is committed to providing an inclusive environment that offers equal opportunities for all.  We place great value on diversity and are seeking to increase the diversity within our community.  Therefore we particularly encourage applications from under-represented groups, such as people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic groups and people with disabilities.

Advert information