Research Assistant in AI & Machine Learning (Milton Keynes, ENG, GB, MK7 6AA)

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About the Role

This is a part-time, fixed-term contract running until 30th June 2026 initially. The successful applicant will work 26.25 hours per week in this contract which equates to roughly 3 and half days per week. 

We are seeking to appoint a highly motivated Research Assistant to work in the Faculty of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM)-School of Computing and Communications at The Open University. 

The successful candidate will work closely with Dr Samara Banno on the Open Societal Challenge-Challenge Us! research project “Detecting the Early Signs of Dementia condition (including Alzheimer’s) in Down’s syndrome using Intelligent Modelling/AI”. They will use their research knowledge, skills and experience in analysing quantitative/qualitative data generated from Alzheimer’s Biomarkers Consortium: Down syndrome dataset by exploratory data analysis, computational modelling based on artificial intelligence methods including deep learning and machine learning, and transferring models generated by machine learning to novel datasets. They will also assist the organisation of workshops and provide input into the writing of publications and bids for external grants.

Whilst candidates are expected to have worked with machine learning models and AI as well as data science techniques, experience of working on health projects with a cognitive orientation will be advantageous. 

Key Responsibilities

The person appointed will be expected to contribute to the above OSC project” project in the following ways:

• Design and implement an appropriate data analysis and machine learning pipeline and relevant modelling algorithms to address the research questions.
• Investigate transfer learning methods (including Artificial Neural Networks and Deep learning) with the aim to apply the developed models into new domains.
• Proven experience in applying statistical models to support research and decision-making Analysis.
• Interpret findings and make suggestions for improvements and communicate project outcomes in dissemination activities.
• Initiate and contribute to innovative funding bids in collaboration with other researchers.
• Ability to work with Python Language and its libraries.

About You

Essential

• A M.Sc. degree or working towards a PhD degree in a relevant area or equivalent in an area of computer science, engineering, or cognate discipline.
• Evidence of research excellence in using methods from Artificial Intelligence and machine learning and computational modelling techniques.
• Experience in data transformation and data mining techniques.
• Excellent skills in Python programming and statistical models.
• Experience of working in the intersection of Artificial Intelligence and psychology.
• Ability to work collaboratively in an interdisciplinary team.
• Ability to communicate research findings to non-specialist audience.
• Understandings of ethics in psychology and health data and GDPR requirements.

Desirable

• An existing track record of active participation at international conferences.
• Experience of working with cognitive models.

Support with your application

If you have any questions, or need support or adjustments relating to your application, the recruitment process, or the role, please contact us on 01908 541111 or email careers@open.ac.uk quoting the advert reference number.

What's in it for you?

At The Open University, we offer a range of benefits to recognise and reward great work, alongside policies and flexible working that contribute towards a great work life balance. Get all the details of what benefits we offer by visiting our Staff Benefits page (clicking this link will open a new window).

Flexible working

We are open to discussions about flexible working. Whether it’s a job share, part time, compressed hours or another working arrangement. Please reach out to us to discuss what works best for you.

Next steps in the Recruitment process

We anticipate the interview date being 21st October with interviews being completed over MS Teams. 

Early closing date notification

How to apply

To apply for this role please submit the following document(s):

• CV
• Supporting statement (A maximum of 1000 words outlining how you meet the essential and desirable criteria listed in the Job Description above). 

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