Research Lead - AI for Weather Forecasting

About The Role

In an era of increasing environmental volatility, weather and climate prediction are crucial for national security and global resilience. These capabilities provide the early warning systems required to protect infrastructure and ensure the security of food, water, and energy. This field is being fundamentally re-engineered by Artificial Intelligence; global weather forecasting AI models are now thousands of times faster than traditional numerical prediction and frequently outperform conventional models in both accuracy and efficiency. Developing sovereign AI capabilities in this space is essential to ensure the UK possesses the independent and trusted tools to manage risk and accelerate decision-making.

The Environment Forecasting Mission advances AI-enabled forecasting to deliver practical decision intelligence, protecting people and infrastructure from extreme weather, securing the Arctic, and providing operational climate intelligence for global development and adaptation.

• Weather Forecasting for National Security
• Sea-Ice Forecasting for Arctic Resilience
• Climate Prediction for Global Development and Adaptation

FastNet

One of the projects under this mission is specifically focused on Machine learning Weather Prediction (MLWP). Working in partnership with the UK national meteorological service, the Met Office, the project team have so far developed a machine learning model for weather prediction, ‘FastNet’. The ultimate goal of this collaboration is to operationalise the FastNet model with the optimal blend of physics-based and Machine Learning-based modelling for UK weather prediction. Building on initial success with FastNet in global predictions, the partnership will next develop high-resolution regional forecasts for the UK.

You will be encouraged to proactively collaborate with [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal]'s Fundamental Research programme, contributing to and drawing from expertise in generative AI, statistical modelling, and physics-informed AI. You will play an active role in developing and integrating spatio-temporal AI approaches specifically applied to physical systems.

We are seeking a highly skilled, experienced Research Lead to drive forward the collaboration. The individual will need to have an expertise in machine learning, preferably with experience of application in weather or climate prediction. The primary purpose of this role is to lead a team of researchers to conduct internationally leading research and ensure effective pull-through towards impact. This will be a collaborative, multidisciplinary team, working across [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal] and the Met Office to bring the research to deployment. You are expected to engage with internal and external stakeholders and collaborators to manage research progress.

How You Will Make An Impact

• Manage and lead a team of researchers and professional staff to develop and deliver high-quality high-impact research.
• Ensure research project delivery against objectives within allocated budgets and timeframes and ensure efficient management of resources.
• Lead a team of researchers and research software engineers to develop the FastNet MLWP model.
• Take the lead on writing up findings as they emerge, producing and developing reports, and publications in peer-reviewed journals, in collaboration with the research team.
• Lead on the preparation of proposals and applications to external bodies, e.g., for funding and contractual purposes.
• Present, disseminate and explain our work at meetings/events and contribute to both the internal and external visibility of the Institute.
• Take responsibility for driving collaboration with academic experts and broader research partners from across [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal], and the wider Turing / project community.
• Line manage staff within the theme, supporting their career development aspirations.
• Contribute to the life of the Institute and support diverse and inclusive community through embracing [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal] values.
• Adhere to and promote principles of reproducible and ethical data science and ensure secure handling of data and health and safety in all aspects of work.
• Engage with stakeholders to ensure that research outcomes can be deployed in the real world.

About You

• A strong track record and experience in a relevant area, e.g., machine learning, AI, computer science, mathematics, statistics, physics, engineering, environmental science
• Experience in machine learning, programming
• Experience in modelling of complex environmental systems
• Evidence of leading grant applications and securing external funding
• Proactive approach to managing stakeholders and their requirements and identifying opportunities for collaboration
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills including the ability to present complex or technical information, and to communicate effectively with diverse audiences

Terms and Conditions

This full-time post is offered on a fixed term basis for 3 years. Part-time (0.8 FTE) applications can be considered. The annual salary is £66,482 - £72,000 plus excellent benefits, including flexible working and family friendly policies, Employee-only benefits guide | [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal]

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

[Employer hidden — sign up to reveal] is committed to creating an environment where diversity is valued and everyone is treated fairly. We value diversity of background, experience, and perspective, and are proud to be an inclusive employer. We warmly encourage applications from all backgrounds, particularly from groups currently under-represented in our sector. If you feel passionate about this role but don’t meet every single requirement, please apply — we recognise that great candidates may bring strengths beyond the criteria listed.

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 [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal] to find out how we can assist you.

About Us

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.

How to Apply

If you are interested in this opportunity, please see the full job description. You will need to register on the candidate portal and complete the application form including your CV and cover letter.