Vacancy detail

Lead Research Scientist – Knowledge & Semantics

££60,000 - £70,000 GBP

+ Bonus & Package

Onsite WORKING

Location: Chelmsford, East of England – United Kingdom Type: Permanent

Job Title: Lead Research Scientist – Knowledge & Semantics

Location: Chelmsford 
Job Type: Full-time  Permanent
Clearance Requirement: Candidates must be eligible for UK security clearance

Overview:

A leading technology and innovation consultancy is seeking a Lead Research Scientist to join its Knowledge & Semantics team. This is an exciting opportunity to guide cutting-edge research in natural language processing (NLP), knowledge graphs, large language models (LLMs), and graph machine learning, contributing to projects across defence, security, and commercial domains.

You’ll work in multi-disciplinary AI teams, collaborating with internal stakeholders, academic partners, and SMEs, delivering real-world applications of advanced ML techniques and semantic technologies.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and shape innovative research in NLP, LLMs, and graph-based machine learning.

• Oversee the technical delivery of R&D projects, from concept through to prototypes and demonstrators.

• Prepare technical documentation, funding proposals, and stakeholder presentations.

• Collaborate with academic institutions and research partners.

• Mentor and manage small research teams, providing technical guidance and direction.

• Present outcomes to both technical and non-technical audiences with clarity and confidence.

Essential Skills & Experience:

• PhD in a relevant field with 4+ years of post-doctoral or industry experience.

• Proven experience leading R&D teams (5+ people) and securing funding.

• Strong Python development skills, with experience using ML frameworks like TensorFlow or PyTorch.

• Expertise in at least one of the following areas:

  • Graph Machine Learning (predictive, causal, or neuro-symbolic)

  • NLP (text mining, entity linking, information extraction)

  • Applications of LLMs in real-world or defence-related contexts

  • Graph-structured data and graph algorithms

  • Designing and utilising relational or graph databases

Desirable Experience:

• Experience with graph ML libraries (e.g., PyTorch-Geometric, PyKeen) or KG tools (e.g., Neo4j)

• Familiarity with query languages such as SQL or Cypher

• Understanding of semantic reasoning, ontology design, or knowledge representation

Why Apply?

• Work on high-impact, real-world AI research projects with direct applications in security and national infrastructure

• Collaborate with leading academic and industry partners

• Flexible working arrangements, including hybrid and part-time options

• Competitive salary and benefits package, including support for continued learning and career progression

If you're an AI/ML expert with a passion for cutting-edge research and semantic technologies, apply now to join a dynamic and mission-driven research team.

Reference: SCU/BDI/LRS/27/06/25

Postcode: CM1

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