KTP

Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTPs) are a unique UK-wide activity that help businesses to improve their competitiveness and productivity by making better use of the knowledge, technology and skills within universities, colleges and research organisations. Further information is available at:

THE PROJECT

The University of Essex in partnership with Trunk Logistics offers an exciting opportunity to a graduate with the relevant skills and knowledge to develop the next generation of an existing software package into a highly innovative, AI-enabled platform suitable for a first widescale commercialisation.

This post is fixed term for 27 months and is based at Trunk Logistics offices in Grays.

DUTIES OF THE POST

The duties of the post will include:

Review the current workflow in the company and specification of the functional requirements of the new system. Embedding technology and upskilling company staff. Supporting company scale up and exploitation of new technology. Participate in academic or industrial conferences and other events, to disseminate and present research outcomes to the wider community. Design, develop, and testing an initial prototype of AI engine. Investigation and implementation of prototype into existing system and validation. Prepare reports, evaluate, handover, and sign off the project. Active engagement in personal development.

These duties are a guide to the work that the post holder will initially be required to undertake. They may be changed from time to time to meet changing circumstances.

KEY REQUIREMENTS

MSc in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, or similar or equivalent experience. Knowledge/experience of computational/artificial intelligence. Understanding of UI centred product design, as well as data extraction and interrogation. Knowledge/interest in data science, machine learning algorithms and methods and cyber security techniques. Knowledge/interest in optimisation, modelling, and algorithm development. Appreciation of the importance of data security and an understanding of data security challenges and possible support mechanisms. Strong mathematical foundation. Knowledge/interest in data visualisation. Experience and knowledge of best practice in data storage, processing and handling. Experience of handling and manipulating large and complex data. Experience and knowledge of higher-level programming languages such as Python, R and Java. Experience of version control using Git. Understanding of front-end technologies, such as JavaScript, HTML5, and CSS3. Strong knowledge of the common PHP or web server exploits and their solutions. Working within a highly traditional sector which is slow to adopt new technologies; working with colleagues who may be resistant to change. Understanding the complex and specialist requirements of removal logistics. An understanding of the need to balance academic and commercial outputs. Ability to communicate complex technical concepts to a range of technical and non-technical stakeholders. Ability to manage expectations in a multi-partner project. Excellent time management skills. Excellent command of written and spoken English. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Ability to lead a complex project with competing deadlines and priorities. Ability to contribute to the drafting of academic papers.

BENEFITS

As a KTP Associate, the post will offer the following benefits:

A personal development budget of £4500 (exclusive of salary). Management training and mentoring by an Innovate UK KTP Adviser. An interesting and challenging role, with exposure to a variety of stakeholders. Full access to university resources to complete the project. World-leading Academic and Company project supervision, with project support by a dedicated, sector leading KTP Office.

LOCATION

Trunk Logistics

Unit 54, Towers Road

Globe Industrial Estate

Grays

Essex

England

RM17 6ST

(Hybrid working offered)