Intelligent Routing & Analytics Associate (KTP Associate, Whitespace Work Software)

Opportunity Review: AI-Powered Operational Researcher for Whitespace KTP Project

This Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) presents a truly exciting opportunity for recent postgraduates looking to make a tangible impact in the environmental services sector through the application of cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence. In collaboration with the University of Surrey and Whitespace Work Software Ltd, a leader in environmental software, this role is designed for individuals passionate about operational research and its potential to revolutionize municipal resource management.

Whitespace is at the forefront of developing AI-powered solutions for smart city local authorities, aiming to accelerate the transition to a circular economy. This KTP is a strategic initiative that underscores Whitespace's commitment to innovation, people, and long-term academic partnerships. If you're eager to contribute to a project that directly addresses real-world environmental challenges and drives commercial innovation, this could be an ideal career launchpad.

Advantages for Candidates:

• Real-World Impact and Innovation: You will be at the heart of developing a data-driven platform to optimize the collection of recoverable assets. This hands-on experience will allow you to apply your academic knowledge to solve complex, commercial challenges, directly influencing the future of urban resource management and the circular economy.
• Unique Career Launchpad: The KTP framework is specifically designed to bridge the gap between academia and industry. This role offers an exceptional chance to gain invaluable business-based experience, learn to bring an innovative solution to market, and launch your career in a commercially driven environment.
• Mentorship and Development: You will benefit from a robust support system, including mentorship from leading academic experts at the University of Surrey (Dr. Abdolreza Roshani, Dr. Wolfgang Garn, and Dr. Yinglong He) and seasoned industry professionals at Whitespace.
• Dedicated Personal Development: A generous personal development budget and dedicated time for training are provided, empowering you to acquire new skills and deepen your expertise throughout the 24-month contract.
• Potential for Long-Term Growth: Successful completion of the KTP project offers the potential for a permanent role within Whitespace, providing a clear pathway for continued career progression within a market-leading organization.
• Collaborative and Dynamic Environment: You will thrive in a collaborative setting, working alongside another KTP Associate and a multidisciplinary team. The role encourages learning new technologies and solving dynamic problems, making for an engaging and stimulating work experience.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Academic Foundation: This role requires a postgraduate degree in a quantitative field such as Operational Research, Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, Business Analytics, or a related discipline.
• Technical Skillset: A strong foundation in optimization algorithms, routing algorithms (like Dijkstra, A*), and graph theory is essential. Experience with arc routing problems, vehicle routing problems, and related concepts will be highly advantageous.
• AI and Data Proficiency: While not all expertise may be required from day one, a good understanding of machine learning, natural language processing, and AI is preferred. Experience in data-driven research, high-performance computing, BI/Data Visualisation (Power BI), SQL, and cloud-based databases (ideally with GIS knowledge like PostGIS) will be beneficial.
• Business Acumen: The role demands more than just technical skills. You'll need to demonstrate project management capabilities, business acumen, the ability to map business processes, present insights clearly, and translate complex technical concepts for non-technical audiences.
• Passion for Problem-Solving: A genuine enthusiasm for tackling complex, real-world problems through the integration of predictive machine learning and advanced optimization techniques is crucial for success in this dynamic role.
• Contractual Nature: This is a 24-month fixed-term contract. However, the potential for a permanent position at the end of the project offers significant long-term career prospects.

This KTP opportunity represents a significant step for individuals seeking to combine academic rigor with practical application in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. It offers a unique blend of research, development, and commercial exposure, making it a compelling prospect for ambitious postgraduates aiming to shape the future of environmental services.