Job profile

College of Engineering, Mathematics & Physical Sciences

This full-time post is available immediately, on a 2-year fixed term basis.

The College wishes to recruit a Data Scientist for a unique and exciting opportunity to work as the KTP Associate on a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) between the University of Exeter and Agile Applications Ltd.

Agile Application’s has recently created a new division called Agile Datum  which is a dynamic data science “start-up” that specialise in the development of advanced AI, Data Analytics, Data Visualisation and Intelligent Chatbots. Their innovative applications advance working practices in both the public and private sector, including within Local Government services (such as planning, building control and waste management). The historic business of Agile Applications is that of a software and services provider to some 60 UK local authorities. The Agile Datum team has been created to take the Group’s product set to the next level and allow Local Authorities to become more efficient using the latest technologies available.    More information about the company can be found at https://agiledatum.com/ and https://agileapplications.co.uk.

This novel technology KTP project aims to increase the efficiency of Local Government digital services by using Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning to automate key processes. The successful applicant will have access to large, unstructured datasets provided by clients.

Applicants will have a computer science or mathematics background, preferably with a masters’ level qualification in the subject or a very good first degree. They must be a self-starter, have confidence in their own abilities, be happy to work alone and as part of an embedded team and have excellent communication skills. Candidates should be able to demonstrate they can work autonomously, with dedication, strong attention to deal and a flexible approach.

Familiarity and confidence in using Python, ‘R’, Relational Databases, SQL Databases and Data Warehouses is essential. Applicants must also have demonstrable experience of AI/machine learning and using data to predict outcomes. Experience with Microsoft Azure Cognitive Services and Azure Cloud Services would be beneficial.

The Associate must have an aptitude for, and show an interest in, the commercial aspects of the work being undertaken, be able to demonstrate an initial understanding of the political aspects of the project and the drivers for customer engagement and eventual market uptake. Interest and experience of working with Local Government is desirable.

Support, guidance and training will be provided to the Associate and the position includes a £4,000 personal development budget as well as a two-week residential training course at Ashorne Hill.

The successful candidate will be employed by the University of Exeter, but will be primarily based at the Agile Application’s premises in Bristol.

Please ensure you read the Job Description and Person Specification attached above.

For further information please contact Dr Fabrizio Costa (f.costa@exeter.ac.uk) at the University of Exeter, or Tim Bowen (tim.bowen@agileapplciations.co.uk at Agile Applications Ltd.

The department has gained a Silver Athena SWAN award as a commitment to providing equality of opportunity and advancing the representation of women in STEM/M subjects: science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine.