Research Assistant in Human Augmentation with AI

Role Description

Research Assistant in Human Augmentation with AI

We welcome applications from prospective Research Assistants in Human-centred AI, with experience in designing, developing, and validating novel human-swarm collaboration framework with effective AI and augmented reality technologies. Applicant will work in the Centre for Autonomous and Cyber-physical Systems at Cranfield. This exciting new role is co-developed with the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL) and dedicated to the identified future research areas of novel human-swarm teaming in complex scenarios.

About the Role

Our reputation for leading in the field of AI and autonomous systems: human-centred AI, human-machine-interaction, advanced sensing, communications, machine learning, and reasoning - has been established through more than thirty years of research into this field. The group you would be joining is primarily focused in research on human-centred autonomous systems, human-swam collaboration, and immersive interface design for future autonomous air systems.

You will also work with external partners from DSTL to develop human-centred AI technologies (including models and interfaces) for human augmentation. This is an important strategic role for the team, with opportunities to develop – both you, and the technology base. Future contract extension is dependent on funding, which we are actively pursuing. Where appropriate we will support you to develop funding for example via doctorate-level study.

About You

For the role, you will be educated to MSc level in a relevant subject. Due to the nature of the project, right to work will be checked by DSTL for security requirement. Your skills and knowledge will mean you can contribute to research & development activities such as (1) deep learning, (2) human-computer interface, (2) engage with our DSTL and other defence partners to develop current and future research, and (3) assist activities and project management in the group with other academics.

You are expected to have good research/programming skills and experience in either one or more of the following areas: 1) AR/VR or advanced user interface design, 2) deep learning in image processing and/or signal processing, 3) Unreal or Unity environment development, 4) other related areas in human-machine interaction.

You will be expected to collaborate with the existing staff working in the same centre and have communications and meetings with our collaborators, the industrial partner at various sites across UK. In return, the successful applicant will have exciting opportunities for career development in this key position, and to be at the forefront of world leading research and education, joining a supportive team and environment.

About Us

As a specialist postgraduate university, Cranfield’s world-class expertise, large-scale facilities and unrivalled industry partnerships are creating leaders in technology and management globally. Learn more about Cranfield and our unique impact here.

The Centre for Autonomous and Cyber-Physical Systems has reputation for leading in the field of autonomous and space systems, vibro-acoustics and signal processing has been established through more than thirty years of research into this field. We cover all types of autonomous vehicles including airborne, ground and marine as well as space. Recent research includes the airborne monitoring of ground traffic behaviour for hidden threats by autonomous sensor platforms, developing an analytical framework for understanding the behaviours of multiple unmanned aerial aircraft and creating collision avoidance and path-planning algorithms for Unmanned Surface Vessels operating out of human eyesight.

Our Values and Commitments

Our shared, stated values help to define who we are and underpin everything we do: Ambition; Impact; Respect; and Community. Find out more here.

We aim to create and maintain a culture in which everyone can work and study together and realise their full potential. We are a Disability Confident Employer and proud members of the Stonewall Diversity Champions Programme. We are committed to actively exploring flexible working options for each role and have been ranked in the Top 30 family friendly employers in the UK by the charity Working Families. Find out more about our key commitments to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and Flexible Working here.

Working Arrangements

Collaborating and connecting are integral to so much of what we do. Our Working Arrangements Framework provides many staff with the opportunity to flexibly combine on-site and remote working, where job roles allow, balancing the needs of our community of staff, students, clients and partners.

How to apply

For an informal discussion about this opportunity, please contact Dr Yang Xing, Lecturer in Applied Artificial Intelligence for Engineering on (E): yang.x@cranfield.ac.uk.

Closing date for receipt of applications:   09 May 2024