Chief Scientific Officer

SHAPE THE FUTURE OF AI IN THE UK

The Alan Turing Institute is seeking a leading AI scientist to become its Chief Scientific Officer.

This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of artificial intelligence and data science at a time when advances in AI are transforming economies, public services, national security and society. As the UK's national institute for AI and data science, the Turing occupies a unique position at the intersection of scientific discovery, national need and real-world impact.

We bring together expertise from across academia, government, industry and the security community to address systems-wide resilience challenges for the UK that no single organisation can solve alone. Through frontier research, collaboration and innovation, we help ensure that advances in AI and data science deliver meaningful benefit for the UK.

ROLE PURPOSE

As Chief Scientific Officer, you will provide the scientific leadership that underpins the Institute's mission and ambition.

Working closely with the Chief Executive Officer, you will define scientific direction, shape the Institute's research agenda and ensure that the Turing remains at the forefront of international developments in AI and data science.

You will help determine where the Institute invests its scientific effort, what capabilities it builds and how it translates scientific excellence into impact for the nation.

As a member of the Executive Team, you will play a central role in shaping the future of both the Institute and the UK's AI ecosystem.

HOW YOU WILL MAKE AN IMPACT

You will:

• Define and communicate a compelling scientific vision for the Institute.
• Shape and lead a world-class portfolio of AI and data science research.
• Identify emerging scientific opportunities and future areas of strategic importance.
• Build, inspire and develop exceptional scientific teams and future research leaders.
• Strengthen the Institute's position as a trusted national and international voice in AI.
• Build influential partnerships across academia, government, industry and the wider research ecosystem.
• Ensure that scientific advances are translated into meaningful national capability and public benefit.
• Work closely with the Science & Innovation team to bridge scientific discovery and practical deployment.
• Responsibility for convening the Alan Turing Institute s Scientific Advisory Board.

ABOUT YOU

We are seeking an internationally recognised AI scientist with the credibility, vision and leadership capability to operate at the forefront of the field.

You will bring:

• An outstanding reputation in artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science or a closely related discipline.
• A significant track record of scientific achievement and influence.
• Experience leading major research programmes, institutes, laboratories or scientific organisations.
• A proven ability to define scientific strategy and deliver ambitious outcomes.
• Experience building and leading high-performing research teams.
• The ability to influence and collaborate with leading researchers, policymakers, funders and industry leaders.
• Exceptional communication skills and the ability to translate complex ideas for diverse audiences.
• Strategic judgement, intellectual curiosity and a collaborative leadership style.

WHY JOIN US?

• Few scientific leadership roles offer the opportunity to shape both the future of a discipline and its contribution to society at a national level.
• As the UK's national institute for AI and data science, the Turing provides a unique platform from which to influence the direction of AI research, help shape national capability and ensure that scientific advances deliver meaningful benefits for the UK.
• For the right individual, this is more than a leadership role. It is an opportunity to leave a lasting mark on the future of AI and on the future of the nation.

As this role requires eligibility for Developed Vetting (DV) clearance, applicants must be eligible to obtain DV clearance as a condition of appointment.

APPLICATION PROCESS

The Alan Turing Institute is committed to attracting exceptional and diverse talent and welcomes applications from candidates from all backgrounds.

To apply, candidates should submit:

• A full and current Curriculum Vitae.
• A cover letter of no more than one page outlining:

- Their interest in the opportunity.

- How their experience aligns with the requirements of the role.

- The contribution they believe they could make as Chief Scientific Officer.