Specialist in Large Language Models and NLP for an Architectural Firm - KTP Associate

The Role

Ryder Architecture and Newcastle University are offering an exciting opportunity for a Specialist in Large Language Models (LLM) and NLP to lead on automation of non-design related tasks with their firm.

You will take a leading role in a project aimed at enhancing business productivity and service delivery by automating non-design support tasks and their deliverables. You will support the automated generation of various type of documents (proposal, stage reports, client brief, etc.) to support the architectural design development process. Additionally, you will work on developing methods for improving design capability and capacity through the application of novel LLM Models and Artificial Intelligence systems.

Candidates should have a Masters or PhD in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Software Engineering, Data Science, Statistics or a related technical field. Applications also are strongly encouraged from candidates with background in Architecture, Design and related disciplines who have knowledge and skills in computing related to LLM/ AI systems.

The KTP Associate will be an employee of Newcastle University but will spend most of their working time at the Ryder Architecture’s premises at Cooper’s Studios, 14-18 Westgate Road, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE1 3NN and when required at Newcastle University. Although the contract is fixed term for a duration of 2 years, more than 70% of KTP staff gain a permanent job offer by their KTP company.

Benefits:

Develop managerial skills and attend two residential managerial workshops (each of one week duration) £4,000 personal training budget The opportunity to lead a project, develop project management skills and improve long term career prospects Mentoring by a Knowledge Transfer Network Adviser Full access to university resources to complete the project Ability to work in a largely self-determined way, across the industry-academic partnership Opportunities to develop both technical understanding and commercial awareness The possibility to study for a higher degree or undertake professional development

For more information or informal enquiries, please contact Prof Mohamad Kassem () and Dr Huizhi Liang () 

For further details on the Faculty of Science, Agriculture & Engineering please visit our web page at: 

For further details about Knowledge Transfer Partnerships please visit the web page at:

Key Responsibilities

Lead the delivery of the funded project, conducting research in accordance with the agreed programme, ensuring benefits are delivered for all parties of the KTP. Develop an automatic documents generation system to support architecture design through applying LLMs and advanced NLP and machine learning techniques Undertake personal development activities including on-boarding familiarisation with the company Disseminate and embed the knowledge within Ryder to various stakeholders throughout the KTP via reports, presentations, group discussions and workshops Prepare outputs such as publications and case studies of the research from the team to scientific and non-scientific audiences, in written and oral form. And attend conferences

The Person

Knowledge, Skills, and Experience

Familiarity with core concepts of trustworthy and explainable AI Expanding knowledge in applying a range of methods and techniques in LLMs, NLP, AI, deep learning and predictive modelling, generative models Understanding of the fundamentals of Data Science and Machine Learning (experience desired) Programming and development skills in Python based Natural Language Processing/AI libraries and platforms such as NLTK, Spacy, sk-learn, pytorch, Keras Adaptability and ability to quickly grasp new concepts, technologies, and adapt existing LLM systems to specific business needs Problem solving skills to analyse complex problems and break them into manageable components when devising innovative solutions using LLM technologies

Attributes and Behaviour 

Personal motivation and drive Excellent organisational and planning skills Thrives in a project environment with the ability to work to tight deadlines The ability to work independently and collaboratively with colleagues The ability to work autonomously and the confidence to lead Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate at all levels to different stakeholder groups in both academia and industry Excellent verbal, written and presentation skills Ability to translate complex technical concepts into clear and accessible language for non-specialist audiences

Qualifications

Candidates should have a Masters or PhD in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Software Engineering, Data Science, Statistics, or a related technical field

As part of our pre-employment checks for this role, the successful candidate will need to obtain SC level clearance from Ryder Architecture and any offer of employment would be subject to successful clearance.

Newcastle University is a global University where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. As a University of Sanctuary, we aim to provide a welcoming place of safety for all, offering opportunities to people fleeing violence and persecution.

We are committed to being a fully inclusive university which actively recruits, supports and retains colleagues from all sectors of society. We value diversity as well as celebrate, support and thrive on the contributions of all of our employees and the communities they represent. We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer and encourage applications from individuals who can complement our existing teams, we believe that success is built on having teams whose backgrounds and experiences reflect the diversity of our university and student population.

At Newcastle University we hold a silver award in recognition of our good employment practices for the advancement of gender equality. We also hold a Bronze award in recognition of our work towards tackling race inequality in higher education REC. We are a employer and will offer an interview to disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the role as part of the offer and interview scheme.

In addition, we are a member of the Euraxess initiative supporting researchers in Europe. 

Requisition ID: 27250

We ensure there's something for everyone and these benefits include: a cycle-to-work schemeshopping discountscompetitive pension schemehealth and wellbeing initiativesactivities and eventsgenerous leavediscounted travelChristmas shutdown