"AI Research Software Engineer"

University of Surrey

Location:	Guildford
Salary:	£37,694 to £46,049 per annum
Hours:	Full Time
Contract Type:	Fixed-Term/Contract

Placed On: 26th February 2026
Closes: 18th March 2026
Job Ref: 009426

The University of Surrey is a global community of ideas and people, dedicated to life-changing education and research. We are ambitious and have a bold vision of what we want to achieve - shaping ourselves into one of the best universities in the world. Our culture empowers people to achieve this aim and to collectively, and individually, make a real difference.

This post (fixed term contract up-to April 2027) is part of an EPSRC Prosperity Partnership “Future Personalised Object-Based Media Experiences Delivered at Scale Anywhere”, led by Prof Adrian Hilton in the Centre for Vision, Speech and Signal Processing (CVSSP), University of Surrey, with the BBC and Lancaster University.

The role

The successful candidate will work closely with industry and academic partners. The post holder will take a significant role in planning, coordinating and implementing research programmes and, where appropriate, commercial and consultancy activities. They will take lead responsibility for a small research project or identified parts of a large project. This position offers the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research and development in AI for creative industries.

Key responsibilities include:

• Supporting AI4ME R&D activities including the planning and carrying out of specific activities, often in collaboration with colleagues and partners.
• Leading and collaborating with the AI4ME team, partner universities and industry across on joint research, development and integration to develop new tools and technologies.
• To take a significant role in planning, coordinating and implementing research programmes and, where appropriate, commercial and consultancy activities. To make decisions about research programmes and methodologies, often in collaboration with colleagues, and to resolve the problems of meeting research objectives and deadlines.
• To develop new concepts and ideas to extend intellectual understanding. Assess, interpret and evaluate the outcomes of research, and develop ideas for the application of research outcomes.
• Pursue and advocate responsible and open research and innovation to ensure ethical, fair and inclusive advances in science, technology and use of data.

About you

We are looking for applicants who hold a PhD in computer science, electronic engineering, or a related subject. A strong background in software development and experience in one or more of the following areas is essential:

• Experience in software development in topics such as computer vision, audio signal processing, machine learning, deep learning, and/or sensor systems.
• Experience in collaboration and technology transfer to partners outside of academia.
• Ability to work independently or in a team, excellent organisation and time management.
• Excellent writing and communication for varying levels of technical/non-technical audience.

How to Apply

Please submit your CV and cover letter on the University website.

Please note interviews are scheduled for week commencing 13 April 2026.

Further details
For more information and to apply online, please download the further details and click on the 'Apply' button above.
In return we offer a generous pension, relocation assistance where appropriate, flexible working options including job share and blended home/campus working locations (dependent on work duties), access to world-class leisure facilities on campus, a range of travel schemes and supportive family friendly benefits including an excellent on-site nursery.

Click here to find out more about the benefits we offer to support you.

Closing Date: 23.59 hours GMT on Wednesday 18 March 2026