Mission Lead - Environmental 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

Currently, Turing is undergoing a restructuring, moving towards a challenge-led model with three Grand Challenges (Environment & Sustainability, Health, Defence & National Security), underpinned by cross-cutting Fundamental Research. This new Turing 2.0 model focuses on world-class science and innovation and aims to generate high-quality research and translate it into real-world impact and deployment.

In the Environment & Sustainability Grand Challenge, we will use machine learning and AI as a transformative technology to benefit planet and people. Initially the Grand Challenge will centre around using machine learning and AI for

1. Weather modelling and forecasting (e.g., data assimilation, forecasts, downscaling, end-to-end forecasting).
2. Sea-ice modelling.
3. Modelling and forecasting of renewables, e.g., wind/solar.
4. Nuclear fusion.

CANDIDATE PROFILE

We are now looking for an inspirational scientific leader to drive forward research in the area of environmental forecasting with an initial focus on weather modelling and forecasting and sea-ice modelling. You will report to the Science and Innovation Director for Environment and Sustainability. This role will form part of the Grand Challenge leadership team.

The Mission Lead will be key to delivering internationally leading research in machine learning for the first mission in environmental forecasting. This role will work closely with research and business team colleagues across the Grand Challenge and will be required to manage a small group of Research Leads. You are also expected to engage with stakeholders, coordinate funding applications, and contribute to continual scoping of the mission.

DUTIES AND AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY

• Develop the strategy and scope of the Environmental Forecasting mission for the Environment and Sustainability Grand Challenge.
• Break down the mission's vision into strategic and financial planning with ambitious and measurable goals.
• Lead the delivery of the Environmental Forecasting mission, ensuring delivery against objectives.
• Manage, lead and inspire a team of researchers and professional staff across the mission.
• Convene Institute partners to maximise opportunities for translation and exploitation of the algorithms, software, methods, theories and tools developed through the mission.
• Cultivate strong relationships with internal stakeholders
• Ensure that potential for real-world application is embedded in the design and delivery of the mission's research
• Lead and contribute to efforts of generating mission funding.

As part of the Grand Challenge leadership team, you will take part in the following:

• Collaborate with other mission and project leads to maximise delivery efficiencies and impact across domains.
• Act as a public face of the Institute, promoting its science and innovation within the mission area, nationally and internationally
• Contribute to securing large-scale investments (via grants, philanthropy and others).

Person Specification

• PhD or equivalent level of professional qualifications and/or experience in data science (broadly defined to include mathematics, statistics, computer science pure or applied) or related quantitative discipline
• Record of research excellence in an academic, government and/or industrial setting in the area of environmental modelling
• In-depth understanding of the national data science and AI landscape, in the context of environment & sustainability.
• Demonstrable experience of income generation for large scale research initiatives
• Demonstrable ability and vision to develop and deliver large strategic initiatives
• Experience of line management, and/or matrix management.
• Clear and effective communication skills, with and to a wide range of people and audiences at all levels.
• Ability to provide leadership to a diverse team of scientists and engineers.
• Demonstrable ability to plan and deliver large-scale collaborative research projects or programmes.
• Ability to communicate, translate and champion research findings.

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

Terms and Conditions

This role will be appointed on a full-time, fixed term basis for 3 years (with the potential to be extended).
Part-time applications can be considered (0.8 FTE minimum) and will be discussed further with the successful applicant.

Secondments can be considered on an interim basis only, before engaging in a direct employment contract. You must be willing to commit at least 80% of your time to the Turing.

The annual salary is from £89,598 (pro-rated to the hours worked) with 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. While the Turing operates a hybrid working model you will be expected to spend time there each month to connect to your peer group and to work with teams across the Institute. We would ideally like the successful candidate to be in our office 3 days per week.

Application procedure

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

Equality Diversity and Inclusion

We are committed to making sure our recruitment process is accessible and inclusive.

This includes making reasonable adjustments for candidates who have a disability or long-term condition. Please contact us at to find out how we can assist you.