Research Scientist – Knowledge & Semantics

Location: Cheltenham (Hybrid – 2 days per week on-site)

Job-Type: Permanent

Salary: Up to £70,000 + Bonus

Eligible candidates must hold sole British citizenship and be eligible for UK SC Clearance

We’re working with a world-class defence technology powerhouse that’s rapidly expanding its footprint in AI, graph learning, and semantic reasoning—and they’re looking for a hands-on research scientist to lead their Knowledge & Semantics team.

This is a rare opportunity to work at the bleeding edge of applied AI with a team of researchers solving problems in NLP, knowledge graphs, graph ML, and LLM applications—all with real-world impact in security and defence. If you're excited about predictive graph learning, symbolic AI, and leading innovative R&D in close partnership with academia, this could be the career-defining role you’ve been waiting for.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and deliver cutting-edge R&D across NLP, graph ML, and semantic reasoning

• Drive proposal writing and secure funding for innovative research in the defence space

• Collaborate with other AI and ML teams across BAE’s innovation programmes

• Develop prototypes, present research outcomes, and contribute to cross-functional client delivery

• Act as technical lead across internal and customer-facing research projects

Key Skills & Expertise

• PhD in AI/ML-related discipline with 4+ years’ postdoc or commercial research experience

• Track record of leading R&D teams (5+ developers) and delivering to defence or government customers

• Deep understanding of knowledge graphs, text mining, NLP, and/or graph neural networks

• Strong Python development skills and proficiency with ML frameworks (PyTorch, TensorFlow)

• Proven experience applying ML to real-world problems and securing R&D funding (e.g. Dstl, EPSRC)

• Excellent communication skills with ability to engage technical and non-technical stakeholders

Desirable Skills

• Experience with graph ML libraries (e.g. PyTorch-Geometric, PyKeen), Neo4j, or Cypher

• Familiarity with knowledge representation, ontology design, or neuro-symbolic AI

• Prior delivery of LLM-based research projects or integration into operational systems

The Package

• Up to £70,000 base salary

• 10% company bonus

• Enhanced pension scheme – up to 10% matched

• 25 days annual leave + flexible options

• Private medical, dental, and life insurance

• Career-defining research and IP opportunities

If this sounds like you, apply below or reach out to Declan Bryson at Anson McCade on 07529 161950 quoting the reference:

Research Scientist

AMC/DB/KG/85

Research Scientist