Head of Science /AI

at  National Physical Laboratory

Who sets the standards, to ensure that anything that can be measured is done so with consistency and reliability? We do. Through our vital research, the National Physical Laboratory is helping support scientific and commercial innovations, international trade, environmental protection and health and wellbeing. As our Head of Science/AI, you’ll set our direction as we help grow confidence in and support responsible adoption of AI.
As a member of the Department of Data Science and AI, you will represent the full breadth of capability in measurement and metrics for AI and machine learning and relevant research at the national and international levels. You will support and challenge NPL on the quality, integrity and balance of its AI research. Additionally, you will champion collaborative working within NPL and with external collaborators to address measurement and testing & evaluation challenges.
This role is a unique opportunity to shape NPL’s future contribution to building confidence in AI by growing NPL’s AI Programme and developing testing & evaluation capabilities for AI. As technical lead, lead the business development and strategic delivery for AI measurement and metrics alongside NPL Leadership and the AI Programme Manager. Also support the Leaders in Operations, Research, Strategy, and Commercial Directorates as appropriate when technical leadership input is required. As a leader, you’ll also work with other parts of the business to optimise opportunities, acting as an agent for change and promoting NPL’s values.
As our Head of Science/Al, you’ll set our direction as we grow our AI and machine learning programme to help unlock the benefits of AI and tackle some of the world’s biggest AI challenges.
You have deep AI and machine learning knowledge and the ambition to further develop skills in AI measurement and metrics. Yet you balance subject matter expertise, with outstanding commercial awareness and financial acumen. With a unique opportunity to influence the development of NPL’s AI programme, you are a team player with vision and ability to delivery big ideas. A good networker, you are a confident presenter with excellent communication and influencing skills. And it’s your passion, enthusiasm and drive that will earn you the respect of your team. Beyond that, we’re looking for someone who’ll thrive in an environment like ours. At NPL we learn from each other, respect each other and work together to do better. For ourselves and for our customers. And whilst we’re always looking to stretch beyond what we know, we don’t make things more complicated when there’s no need. Together, we’re helping make the impossible, possible.
Experience in the intersection of AI and areas like healthcare and metrology beneficial but not required. Familiarity with global standards development a plus.
We actively recruit citizens of all backgrounds, but the nature of our work in specific departments means that nationality, residency and security requirements can be more tightly defined than others. You will be asked about this throughout the recruitment process. To work at NPL, you will need to obtain BPSS security clearance.
Please note: Applications will be reviewed, and interviews conducted throughout the duration of this advert therefore we may at any time bring the closing date forward. We encourage all interested applicants to apply as soon as practical.
The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) is a world-leading centre of excellence that provides cutting-edge measurement science, engineering and technology to underpin prosperity and quality of life in the UK. Find out more about what it is like working here - The measure of us - Overview
NPL and DSIT have strong commitments to diversity and equality of opportunity, and welcome applications from candidates irrespective of their background, gender, race, sexual orientation, religion, or age, providing they meet the required criteria. Applications from women, disabled and black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates in particular are encouraged. All disabled candidates (as defined by the Equality Act 2010) who satisfy the minimum criteria for the role will be guaranteed an interview under the Disability Confident Scheme.
At NPL, we believe our success is a result of the diversity and talent of our people. We strive to nurture and respect individuals to ensure everyone feels valued by treating everyone on the basis of their own individual merits and abilities regardless of their own or perceived identity, as part of our commitment to diversity & inclusion, we ensure we’re creating an environment where all our colleagues feel supported and welcome. More about this on our Diversity & Inclusion page.
We are committed to the health and well-being of our employees. Flexible working and social activities are embedded in our culture to create a positive work-life balance, along with a broad range of rewards, benefits and recognition. Our values are at the heart of what we do, and they shape the way we interact, develop our people and celebrate success. To ensure everyone has an equal chance, we’re always willing to make reasonable adjustments to the recruitment process. If you would like to discuss, please contact us

Please refer the Job description for details