Join to apply for the Senior Research Associate, Project Cumulus role at The Alan Turing Institute
Overview
The Turing has recently undergone a restructuring and is operating a challenge-led model with three Grand Challenges (Environment & Sustainability, Health, Defence & National Security), underpinned by cross-cutting Fundamental Research. The Environment and Sustainability Grand Challenge’s End-to-end environmental forecasting team is spearheading AI weather forecasting systems that learn to produce predictions from raw observational data. These systems are designed to be computationally inexpensive, easy to customise, and able to leverage a broad range of environmental information. The goal is to generate impact in the UK and with international partners in the Global South where forecasting infrastructure may be limited.
Cumulus is a collaborative initiative to develop AI-powered weather forecasting systems tailored for farming communities in West Africa, particularly in Ghana and Senegal. The project co-develops locally owned, cost-effective AI tools for sub-seasonal weather prediction, led by the Alan Turing Institute, University of Leeds, and African partners. It will build real, operational forecasting systems that integrate remote sensing and local data to support agricultural decisions such as when to plant or harvest, and will foster local capacity through training and job creation. The project comprises two technical work packages focusing on AI downscaling and end-to-end observationally driven forecasting, with a second phase planned to scale across Africa and promote sustainability through local ownership and open infrastructure.
Your Profile
You will be a highly skilled researcher with a PhD (or equivalent experience/qualifications) in a relevant area (e.g., machine learning, AI computer science, mathematics, statistics, physics or engineering). In addition, you will have experience in machine learning and AI, including experience in machine learning software development and training deep learning models. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present complex or technical information, are required.
Main Duties
* Play a leading role in undertaking high-quality research, actively contributing to and steering the broader research aims of the Environment & Sustainability Grand Challenge.
* Provide technical leadership for research projects, ensuring successful outcomes and deployable research results.
* Contribute to software development, including planning, execution, packaging, release and management.
* Contribute to mission-led research in collaboration with team members and Principal Investigators (PIs).
* Act as a point of contact, supporting PIs in engaging with stakeholders and deputising in meetings where necessary.
Closing date
Closing date for applications: SUNDAY 07 SEPTEMBER 2025 2025 AT 23:59 (LONDON, UK, BST)
Term and Conditions
This full-time post is offered on a fixed-term basis for 2 years. The project aims to start on 01 October 2025. The annual salary is £56,840 plus excellent benefits, including flexible working and family-friendly policies. International travel to areas such as West Africa will be required.
Application Procedure
If you are interested in this opportunity, please click the apply button below. It will redirect you to The Alan Turing Institute jobs portal, where you can find more information and a full job description for this role. You will need to register on the applicant portal and complete the application form including your CV and covering letter. If you have questions about the role or would like to apply using a different format, please email recruitment@turing.ac.uk.
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.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
The Alan Turing Institute is committed to creating an environment where diversity is valued and everyone is treated fairly. In accordance with the Equality Act, we welcome applications from anyone who meets the specific criteria of the post regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy and maternity, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation. Reasonable adjustments to the interview process can also be made for any candidates with a disability.
Seniority level
* Not Applicable
Employment type
* Full-time
Job function
* Research and Project Management
Industries
* Research Services
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