The Reader in Artificial Intelligence role at the University of Bath is a senior academic position within the Department of Computer Science, aimed at strengthening its growing AI and Machine Learning research portfolio. This full-time, open-ended post offers the opportunity to provide academic leadership, deliver internationally recognised research, and contribute to high-quality teaching. The role supports impactful collaboration across disciplines, industry, and society while shaping the future direction of AI research and education.
Key Responsibilities & Important Points for Applicants
- Role Overview
- Full-time, open-ended academic appointment at Reader level (Grade 9).
- Salary range from £58,225 to £73,709, depending on experience and contribution.
- Based in the Department of Computer Science, within a highly collaborative AI and Machine Learning Research Group.
- Closing date: 16 February 2026.
- Research Leadership & Excellence
- Maintain and further develop an established, internationally recognised research profile in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning.
- Lead high-quality research in areas such as Machine Learning, Natural Language Processing, Reinforcement Learning, and AI Security.
- Publish in leading journals and conferences and secure external research funding to support an ambitious research agenda.
- Translate research into real-world impact through engagement with industry, policymakers, charities, spin-outs, and public outreach.
- Contribute to interdisciplinary research initiatives across the University and with national and international partners.
- Teaching & Supervision
- Design and deliver engaging teaching at undergraduate and postgraduate levels, including lectures, tutorials, and laboratory sessions.
- Supervise PhD students and contribute to postgraduate and undergraduate project supervision.
- Promote innovative teaching practices and ensure an excellent, inclusive student learning experience.
- Departmental & Academic Leadership
- Provide academic leadership within the Department, including potential leadership of research teams or thematic areas.
- Contribute to departmental administration and academic service, such as recruitment, admissions, ethics processes, and student placements.
- Play an active role in seminars, workshops, and strategic initiatives that strengthen the Department’s research culture.
- Support, Mentoring & Career Development
- Access to structured mentoring upon appointment.
- Option to undertake the Pathway to HEA Fellowship, leading to Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy.
- Opportunities to progress, manage teams, and take on wider leadership responsibilities within a growing department.
- Strong institutional support for building research networks and attracting funding.
- Essential Profile
- PhD or equivalent in Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science, or a closely related discipline.
- Established research profile with demonstrated funding success appropriate to Reader level.
- Deep conceptual understanding of the subject area and proven teaching experience at UG and PG levels.
- Evidence of academic leadership, a clear research vision, and a strong, sustainable research strategy.
- Excellent communication, organisational, and interpersonal skills, with a commitment to ethical professional conduct.
- Working Environment & Benefits
- Located on a single-site campus on the edge of the UNESCO World Heritage city of Bath, offering exceptional quality of life.
- Comprehensive benefits package including generous pension schemes, annual leave, wellbeing support, professional development opportunities, relocation allowance, and visa support.
- Strong commitment to equality, diversity, inclusion, disability confidence, and family-friendly working practices.
This position is well suited to an established AI academic seeking to lead influential research, mentor the next generation of researchers, and contribute strategically to a globally respected computer science department.