Principal Research Engineer

Job Description

The Bristol Research & Innovation Laboratory (BRIL) of [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal] is at the cutting-edge of artificial intelligence, and digital technologies, wireless and networking systems research. We are seeking an exceptional candidate to join our dynamic team as a Principal Research Engineer or Research Fellow to lead the development of next generation technologies and strategies for distributed data sharing and integration of systems. This role focuses on innovative solutions leveraging cloud and edge technologies, enhancing data connectors, and pushing the boundaries of data integration.

Responsibilities

• Conducting industry-applied R&D in cross-domain data sharing and digital twins supporting services such as energy flexibility, carbon credit and digital measurement reporting and verification (dMRV).
• Networking with business and R&D divisions in [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal], business partners, and academia.
• Proposing projects to EU or local external funding and delivering field trials as proof of concept.
• Technology scouting and industry trend analysis providing strategic feedback to [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal]'s R&D and business operations.
• Business concept validation activities in collaboration with business divisions and business development teams.
• Producing intellectual property and high-quality journal and conference papers.
• Investigating relevant standardization activities for advanced technology features.
• Demonstrating ability to work globally with engineers across EMEA and the global organisation.
• Supporting BRIL's deliverables under internal company contract and external collaborative projects.

Key Qualifications

• PhD in computer science specialised on data sharing, digital twins, distributed databases, AI, or related field with 3+ years (principal research engineer) or 5+ years (research fellow) post-doctoral or industrial experience.
• Deep understanding of data sharing fundamentals including availability, confidentiality and integrity principles.
• Strong system engineering experience related to data sharing and AI solutions, microservices architecture, and cloud/edge hybrid deployments.
• Strong professional network and presence within the EMEA industrial sector, data and computer science technical domains, and standardisation bodies.
• Proven track record of publications in major conferences and journals.
• Self-motivated with excellent problem-solving skills.
• Experience in patent applications and intellectual property management is desirable.

Required Skills

• Familiarity with data sharing standards and AI architectures including data interoperability, system integration, and digital twin technologies.
• Experience in externally funded projects (including European), independent research within a team, and building collaborations.
• Proficient in programming with Python, Java and SQL and testing using open-source tools.
• Understanding of database and data analysis technologies like Azure Data Explorer (ADX), PostgreSQL, MongoDB, and data-driven machine learning tools such as Spark, Power BI.
• Experience with optimisation, simulation and data analysis tools such as Matlab Simulink, PySpark and Jupyter notebooks.
• Work on projects such as agentic AI, MCP, RAG, generative AI, trust and security, driving innovations from concept through PoC to MVP. Experience with semantic web technologies; RDF, OWL, knowledge graph and ontologies for data harmonisation.
• Familiarity with dataspaces, metadata standards and data governance frameworks for cross-sector data exchange, data sovereignty, and usage control mechanisms.
• Develop computation models for LCA, linking data to environmental impact and product circularity goals.

Why Join Us

• Opportunity to work on pioneering technologies in distributed AI and cross-domain data sharing.
• Dynamic and innovative work environment focused on technology development and research.
• Translate technological research into real products and solutions by working closely with business divisions.
• Contribute to high-impact research with potential for publication in esteemed journals and conferences.
• An attractive remuneration and benefits package.

Embark on a journey where your expertise in distributed systems, AI and data sharing can make a significant impact across multiple sectors. Take a look around the company at Toshiba Careers.

Apply via the [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal] careers portal: Apply for job