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Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Lead Data Scientist - **Company:** UK Atomic Energy Authority - **Location:** Culham, UK - **Experience:** Expert - **Salary:** £76,196.0 - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Agile Methodology, Artificial Intelligence, C++ (Programming Language), Information Engineering, Data Governance, Fortran (Programming Language), Python (Programming Language), Machine Learning, Scientific Computating, Software Engineering, Rust (Programming Language), Scripting, Cloud Platform System, High Performance Computing, Pytorch, Julia, Kubernetes, Slurm, Machine Learning Operations, Docker - **Published:** July 29, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.adzuna.co.uk/jobs/details/5819147521 ## About the Role * Expert knowledge of Scientific AI applications. * Expert knowledge in fusion research. * Experience developing and applying AI/ML solutions using frameworks such as PyTorch and JAX. * A strong track record of research publications, conference contributions, and knowledge sharing within the AI/ML community. * Experience in leading teams of specialised AI researchers to accelerate the delivery of fusion energy. * Experience developing and scaling AI/ML workflows across High Performance Computing (HPC) and cloud environments using technologies such as SLURM, Ray, Horovod, Kubeflow, and Docker. * Knowledge of FAIR data principles, data governance, and data engineering practices to support robust, scalable, and reproducible research., * PhD (or equivalent experience) in a computational, mathematical, physical science, or related discipline, with significant research or industry experience. * Established expertise and reputation in AI/ML or a related field * Proven experience leading research teams, managing complex projects, resources, and external collaborations. * Strong track record of research publications and contributions to the AI/ML or scientific computing community. * Advanced programming experience in compiled or scripting languages (e.g. C++, Fortran, Rust, Julia, Python, or R) with strong UNIX/Linux experience. * Experience applying agile development practices, software engineering principles, and collaborative research approaches. * Knowledge of relevant standards, governance frameworks, data principles, and regulatory requirements. * Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to take ownership of complex technical challenges and influence stakeholders across disciplines. ## Description * Lead the development and application of advanced AI/ML techniques using HPC and exascale technologies to support fusion research. * Provide strategic technical AI leadership across complex multidisciplinary research programmes, collaborations, and projects. * Drive innovation in AI-enabled fusion research by identifying opportunities, solving complex challenges, and advancing new approaches. * Apply expert judgement to influence research strategy, manage technical risks, evaluate solutions, and support high-impact decision making. * Analyse complex technical challenges and develop innovative solutions where established approaches may not apply. * Communicate complex technical concepts to diverse audiences, provide expert advice, publish research outcomes, and represent UKAEA through national and international collaborations. * Lead and inspire multidisciplinary research teams, mentoring emerging talent and building capability across AI, machine learning, and scientific computing. * Manage complex projects, partnerships, resources, and funding opportunities to deliver impactful research outcomes., UKAEA is an onsite organisation, and this role requires regular onsite presence (usually between 3-5 days in any given week) in line with business needs. 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