Research Lead - AI for Weather Forecasting

The Alan Turing Institute

Named in honour of Alan Turing, the Institute is a place for inspiring, exciting work and we need passionate, sharp, and innovative people who want to use their skills to contribute to our mission to make great leaps in data science and AI research to change the world for the better.

Please find more information about us here

BACKGROUND

The Environment Forecasting Mission advances AI-enabled forecasting to deliver practical decision intelligence, protecting people and infrastructure from extreme weather, securing the Arctic, and providing operational climate intelligence for global development and adaptation.

1. Weather Forecasting for National Security
2. Sea-Ice Forecasting for Arctic Resilience
3. Climate Prediction for Global Development and Adaptation

One of the projects under this mission is specifically focused on Machine learning Weather Prediction (MLWP). Working in partnership with the UK national meteorological service, the Met Office, the project team have so far developed a machine learning model for weather prediction, ‘FastNet’. The ultimate goal of this collaboration is to operationalise the FastNet model with the optimal blend of physics-based and Machine Learning-based modelling for UK weather prediction.

CANDIDATE PROFILE

We are seeking a highly skilled, experienced Research Lead to drive forward the collaboration. The individual will need to have an expertise in machine learning, preferably with experience of application in weather or climate prediction. The primary purpose of this role is to lead a team of researchers to conduct internationally leading research and ensure effective pull-through towards impact. This will be a collaborative, multidisciplinary team, working across the Turing and the Met Office to bring the research to deployment. You are expected to engage with internal and external stakeholders and collaborators to manage research progress.

  HOW YOU WILL MAKE AN IMPACT

• Manage and lead a team of researchers and professional staff to develop and deliver high-quality high-impact research.
• Ensure research project delivery against objectives within allocated budgets and timeframes.
• Lead a team of researchers and research software engineers to develop the FastNet MLWP model.
• Take the lead on writing up findings as they emerge, producing and developing reports, and publications in peer-reviewed journals.
• Lead on the preparation of proposals and applications to external bodies.

Please see our portal for a full breakdown of the Job Description.

Terms and Conditions

This full-time post is offered on a fixed term basis for 3 years. Part-time (0.8 FTE) applications can be considered. The annual salary is £66,482 - £72,000 plus excellent benefits, including flexible working and family friendly policies, Employee-only benefits guide | The Alan Turing Institute

The Alan Turing Institute is based at the British Library, in the heart of London’s Knowledge Quarter. We expect staff to come to our office at least 4 days per month. Some roles may require more days in the office; the hiring manager will be able to confirm this during the interview.

Application procedure

Please see our jobs portal for full details on how to apply and the interview process.

Equality Diversity and Inclusion

We value diversity of background, experience, and perspective, and are proud to be an inclusive employer. We warmly encourage applications from all backgrounds, particularly from groups currently under-represented in our sector. If you feel passionate about this role but don’t meet every single requirement, please apply – we recognise that great candidates may bring strengths beyond the criteria listed. 

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