Machine Learning Researcher – KTP Associate

This Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) project aims to develop a Smart Care Home software platform to improve residents’ quality of care by enhancing personalised care plans, enabling early health interventions, and enhancing operational efficiency.

LMH has already started the development of a digital system to move away from manual paper administration but has reached a point where it needs to elevate its digital capabilities to develop a novel, automated system to take full advantage of the latest advances in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML).

The successful applicant for this position will design novel data analysis and machine learning techniques to automate the capture of data within the setting and to provide data-driven, personalised insights to help staff make better care decisions. They will work with end users to design and deploy a software application, providing staff and other stakeholders with intuitive access to the AI-driven functionality.

The KTP will enable LMH to enhance the quality of care provided to residents and the operational efficiency of the business. Embedding the new knowledge will enable LMH to further disseminate the novel capabilities across the care sector through the provision of the Smart Care Home platform via a Saas model.

Candidate Profile: PhD in AI and/or Machine Learning (ML) or a Master’s degree with equivalent professional experience. 

Skills/ experience required include:

Essential for the role:

Advanced AI and data analytics, including ML algorithms and advanced data analytics techniques.Experience of developing software and deploying it to end users.Experience in data management and security.Proficient in Python programming language.Experience with workflow and data automation.Complex problem-solving skills.Good time management and adhering to deadlines.Ability to present results and findings in clear and concise ways.Ability to work as part of the team and independently.

Desirable for the role:

Experience in the digital health domain or in a care home setting specifically.Knowledge or exposure to AI-based decision support systems.Some prior knowledge of conducting research.Knowledge of project management tools and techniques, however, relevant training will be provided, if required.

Main responsibilities: 

Applying techniques which deliver high-accuracy results in predictions derived from the data. Designing and implementing algorithms. Integrating heterogeneous data sources and types into a single data platform.Working with varying groups of people from the tech-savvy to care providers with limited technical capabilities and being able to communicate system development to differing audiences.Working with LMH staff to implement the new system.  Some level of interaction with care home patients and other relevant stakeholders might be required occasionally. 

Personal attributes:

Strong interpersonal skills to successfully work with various stakeholders.Strong communication and presentation skills. The ability to work within a cross-disciplinary project team. Leadership qualities, maturity, good self-organisation, and time management skills to deliver the KTP project and ensure it achieves agreed milestones and objectives.  Ability to work independently, as well as part of the team and use initiative.Strong desire to pursue innovative approaches and pathways

Additional Benefits and support:

Up to £5,000 for personal and professional development for the duration of the projectAnnual leave (25 days p/a)Professional support and mentorshipMental Health and wellbeing support: https://www.aston.ac.uk/staff-public/hr/Benefits-and-Rewards/health-wellbeing 

Career prospects: 

60% of our KTP associates are being offered employment by the companies at the end of the KTP. 

This is a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) funded by Lee Mount Healthcare and Innovate UK. It is essential you understand how KTP works and the vital role you will play if you secure this position. To learn more please visit: www.aston.ac.uk/ktp

The Company: Lee Mount Healthcare (LMH) is a dedicated dementia care-home service whose primary mission is providing compassionate, high-quality care for individuals living with dementia, ensuring their well-being, comfort, and dignity. https://www.leemountcarehome.co.uk/ 

Aston University: You will work in a project team with Dr Roberto Alamino, and Dr Harry Goldingay from Aston University and the Senior Management Team at Lee Mount Healthcare with the support of the IUK’s Knowledge Transfer Adviser.  

Location: You will be based at Lee Mount Healthcare in Halifax, West Yorkshire, but will have access to facilities at Aston University in central Birmingham. Some travel to Aston University and key clients may also be required. Office presence is required four times a week, with a possibility of working remotely one day a week. 

For informal enquiries about this role please contact Dr Roberto Alamino, e-mail: r.c.alamino@aston.ac.uk 

If you think this isn’t the right opportunity for you, please explore other KTP vacancies across the country: https://www.ktp-uk.org/jobs/ 

Aston University is committed to the principles of the Athena SWAN Charter http://www.ecu.ac.uk/equality-charter-marks/athena-swan . We pride ourselves on our vibrant, friendly, supportive working environment and collaborative atmosphere.

Please visit our website https://jobs.aston.ac.uk/Vacancies.aspx for further information and to apply online.  

As users of the disability confident scheme, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the vacancy.

The salary being offered for this role is below the minimum threshold for required to sponsor new applicants to the Skilled Worker route. However, Aston University may be able to sponsor the successful candidate if they: 

•    Are under 26 years old

•    Have held a Student or Graduate visa in the last 2 years

•    Are already in the UK with a Tier 2 or Skilled Worker visa issued before April 4th 2024

Please contact hr_immigration@aston.ac.uk if you would like to discuss your eligibility for Skilled Worker sponsorship.

Closing Date: 31 Mar 2025

Unit: Teaching & Research

Salary: £37,000 to £40,000 per annum