Machine learning researcher - associate

Location: Based predominantly at SSEN in Thatcham Contract Type: Fixed Term (30 months) This exciting Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) project will develop a novel AI‑enabled system to automatically detect low‑voltage services and conductors from image data, using advanced machine learning models to infer the location of hidden or obscured conductors. You will work within SSEN’s core asset data team, collaborating to develop tools and techniques to deliver a user‑friendly mapping solution. What you will gain Develop and apply advanced AI and machine learning methods to complex, large‑scale data to solve real‑world infrastructure challenges Gain hands‑on experience working across multidisciplinary teams in a large utility company serving 3.9 million customers Access a personal development and training budget of £2,000 per year Work closely with world‑leading researchers at Aston University, gaining valuable industrial experience and mentorship Contribute to a high‑impact project supporting modernisation in electricity distribution, with opportunities to publish research and attend leading conferences This KTP is an excellent opportunity for someone keen to plan and deliver business change, working with senior University academics and senior company staff to put leading‑edge research into practice. What we are looking for Essential A Master’s degree (minimum) in Computer Science, Data Science, Computer Vision, Visual Media Engineering, or a related discipline focused on AI and machine learning Experience applying AI or deep learning techniques, including convolutional neural networks Experience analysing image‑based data such as RGB imagery and/or LiDAR Programming experience in Python or MATLAB, with familiarity with platforms such as TensorFlow or PyTorch Desirable A PhD in a related area Knowledge of reinforcement learning Experience integrating AI or machine learning models into business workflows Familiarity with GIS tools or statistical analysis Additional benefits and support £2,000 per annum for personal and professional development Annual leave (25 days per annum) Professional support and mentorship Mental health and wellbeing support Career prospects KTP Associates lead strategic projects that bridge academia and industry, often fast‑tracking career development. Around 60% of KTP Associates are offered employment by their host company at the end of the partnership.  This role is part of a Knowledge Transfer Partnership funded by Southern Electric Power Distribution plc (part of SSEN) and Innovate UK. KTPs are three‑way collaborations linking businesses with the UK’s world‑class knowledge base to deliver innovation projects led by talented graduates. Further details about KTPs can be found at: www.aston.ac.uk/ktp  You will work with Professor Abdul Sadka and Dr Hassan Aqeel Khan from Aston University alongside senior team members at SSEN, with support from an Innovate UK Knowledge Transfer Adviser.  The role will be based predominantly at SSEN in Thatcham, with regular visits to Reading, access to Aston University in Birmingham, and occasional travel to other sites. For informal enquiries, please contact Dr Hassan Aqeel Khan at h.khan54@aston.ac.uk. Aston University is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and is a Disability Confident employer. Disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria will be guaranteed an interview. Closing Date: 23.59 hours BST on Sunday 24 May 2026 Interview Date: Monday 15 June 2026