MISSION LEAD - ENVIRONMENTAL FORECASTING

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 . 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 Weather modelling and forecasting (e.g., data assimilation, forecasts, downscaling, end-to-end forecasting). Sea-ice modelling. Modelling and forecasting of renewables, e.g., wind/solar. Nuclear fusion. We are now looking for an ambitious and inspirational scientific leader to drive forward research in the area environmental forecasting with an initial focus on weather modelling and forecasting and sea-ice modelling, reporting to the Science and Innovation Director for Environment and Sustainability. This role will form part of the Grand Challenge leadership team and be responsible for the leadership and delivery of a multi-million programme of directed activity. ROLE PURPOSE The Mission Lead will be key to delivering internationally leading research in machine learning for the first mission in environmental forecasting. This role will be part of the Environment & Sustainability Grand Challenge, and you will be reporting to the Science and Innovation Director and will work closely with other (Senior) Research Associates, PhD students, interns and business team colleagues across the Grand Challenge. You will be required to manage a small group of Research Leads under the mission. You are also expected to engage with stakeholders, coordinate funding applications, and actively contribute to continual shaping and 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 in support of the Institute’s objectives. 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 within allocated budgets and timeframes. 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 through a diverse range of sources As part of the Grand Challenge leadership team, you will be expected to support and 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) to support the Turing strategy and the Grand Challenge’s research agenda 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 (e.g., Academics, Scientists, Professional services staff, general public and others) Ability to provide leadership to a diverse team of scientists and engineers, assessing and managing performance through regular reviews and appraisals Demonstrable ability to plan and deliver large-scale collaborative research projects or programmes, whilst managing multi-disciplinary research teams Ability to communicate, translate and champion research findings, for optimal results to relevant stakeholders Please see the job description for a full breakdown of the role. APPLICATION PROCEDURE If you are interested in this opportunity, please click the apply button below. You will need to register on the applicant portal and complete the application form including your CV and covering letter. The covering letter should address Why you are applying for this position How you qualify for this position (see criteria under “Person Specification”) A statement of what area within the scope of “Environmental Forecasting” you would like to see at Turing and why (max. 2 pages plus references) Publication list (if not covered in CV) If you have questions about the role or would like to apply using a different format, please contact us on 020 3862 3335 or email If you are applying for more than one role at the Turing, please note that only one Cover Letter can be visible on your profile at one time. If you wish to apply for multiple roles and do not want to overwrite your existing Cover Letter, please apply for the role using the button below and forward your additional cover letter directly to quoting the job title CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: Sunday 13 October 2024 at 23:59 (LONDON UK BST) 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 with a maximum of 20% of your time working on non-conflicting activities at your home organisation. The annual salary is from £89,598 (pro-rated to the hours worked) with excellent benefits, including flexible working and family friendly policies, 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. 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. We are committed to building a diverse community and would like our leadership team to reflect this. We therefore welcome applications from the broadest spectrum of backgrounds. 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. Please note all offers of employment are subject to obtaining and retaining the right to work in the UK and satisfactory pre-employment security screening which includes a DBS Check. Full details on the pre-employment screening process can be requested from