Role
This role offers the opportunity to both accelerate the adoption of these core ideas and to further advance them. Building on our Guidance on the Safety Assurance of Autonomous Systems in Complex Environments (SACE), you will conduct research using a whole-systems approach to the design, analysis and assurance of AI/AS from engineering and sociotechnical viewpoints. A key focus area will be safety cases for AI/AS, specifically how they are developed and reviewed throughout their lifecycle. You will also have the opportunity to engage with PhD students from the UKRI AI Centre for Doctoral Training in Safe Artificial Intelligence Systems (SAINTS) through joint research projects, training activities and co-supervision.
We are seeking researchers who can demonstrate the capacity to push the boundaries of safety science for AI/AS, rather than simply applying existing techniques.
Skills, Experience & Qualification needed
Grade 6 - Research Associate
- First degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Psychology or cognate discipline
- PhD, or in final stages thereof, in Computer Science, Engineering, Psychology, Safety Science or cognate discipline, or equivalent experience
- Knowledge of safety science and system safety, with the ability to conduct high-quality research
- Knowledge of AI and autonomous systems, specifically their design and/or use within safety-critical environments
- Ability to work as part of a diverse and multidisciplinary team
- Collaborative ethos
Grade 7 - Research Fellow
- First degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Psychology or cognate discipline
- PhD in Computer Science, Engineering, Psychology, Safety Science or cognate discipline, or equivalent experience
- Knowledge of safety science and system safety, with the ability to conduct high-quality research
- Knowledge of AI and autonomous systems, specifically their design and/or use within safety-critical environments
- Ability to lead and/or take responsibility for a small research project or identified parts of a large project
- Ability to supervise the work of others, for example in research teams or projects
- Proven ability to attract and obtain external research funding
- Collaborative ethos
Interview
Interview date: w/c 28th September 2026
Informal Enquiries
For informal enquiries: please contact Professor Ibrahim Habli on Ibrahim.Habli@york.ac.uk
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
The University strives to be diverse and inclusive – a place where we can ALL be ourselves.
We particularly encourage applications from people who identify as Black, Asian or from a Minority Ethnic background, who are underrepresented at the University.
We offer family friendly, flexible working arrangements, with forums and inclusive facilities to support our staff. #EqualityatYork
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