AI Research Software Engineer

The University of Surrey is a global community of ideas and people, dedicated to life-changing education and research. We are ambitious and have a bold vision of what we want to achieve - shaping ourselves into one of the best universities in the world. 

The role 

This post is part of an Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) project, Convergent screen technologies and performance in realtime (CoSTAR). The post will operate within the CoSTAR National Lab led by Royal Holloway University of London with Pinewood Studios, BT, University of Surrey, Abertay University, Disguise, National Film and Television School and Surrey County Council. 

The role is funded until January 2027, with an extension likely to be granted. We are looking for someone to start as soon as possible. 

The successful candidate will work closely with industry and academic partners within the CoSTAR Network. This position offers the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research and development in AI for creative industries, while shaping best practices for compute usage and training. 

Key responsibilities include: 

• Supporting CoSTAR R&D activities including the planning and carrying out of specific activities, often in collaboration with colleagues and partners. 

• Supporting onboarding and troubleshooting activities for CoSTAR AI compute as well as gathering feedback from users.

 • Developing and maintaining key documentation and training materials for the CoSTAR AI Compute infrastructure in collaboration with the wider Surrey Research Computing Services team. 

• Delivering training sessions for CoSTAR compute users both locally and online. 

• Leading and collaborating with the CoSTAR Creative AI team, partner Universities and industry across on joint research, development and integration to develop new tools and technologies. 

• Supporting CoSTAR industry partners in using the CoSTAR AI compute and the development of AI models and applications. 

• Pursuing and advocating responsible and open research and innovation to ensure ethical, fair and inclusive advances in science, technology and use of data. 

• Continually update knowledge, develop skills and stay up to date with current research trends and best practice in software development.

• Undertake liaison with external organisations including equipment manufacturers, steering committees, associated academic facilities and commercial users. 

• Maintaining links to the central RSE team and ensure sharing of best practice and knowledge within the Surrey RSE community. 

About you

We are looking for applicants who hold a Master's degree in computer science, electronic engineering, or a related subject. A strong background in software development and experience in one or more of the following areas is essential: 

• Experience in software development in topics such as computer vision, audio signal processing, machine learning, deep learning, and/or sensor systems. 

• Experience in collaboration and technology transfer to partners outside of academia. 

• Ability to work independently or in a team, excellent organisation and time management. 

• Excellent writing and communication for varying levels of technical/non-technical audience. 

Desirable attributes include: 

• Skills and experience of development using languages such as Python and C++ with relevant computer vision, signal processing, machine learning and/or deep learning tools (TensorFlow, PyTorch, Keras, OpenCV etc.). 

• A track record of publishing academic papers, open-source software tools and/or datasets.

How to apply

Please apply on the university website, with a CV and Cover Letter.

Interviews will be held week commencing 2nd  February.

Closing Date: 20 Jan 2026

Area: Technical & Experimental

Salary: £18,847 to £23,025 per annum pro rata (0.5 FTE) Fixed Term until 01/01/2027