Opening for New Foundations Theme Lead
We are seeking applicants to lead the Foundations of Data Science and AI theme. This theme sits at the interface of methods and applications with a goal to develop new methodology that is inspired by real-world data challenges. We are looking to appoint someone with a track record of developing innovative techniques that address key challenges in data science and AI. Candidates should be comfortable working at the intersection of theory and practice, able to derive rigorous, principled solutions, and translate them into impactful applications. To grow and strengthen the Foundations Theme, we are keen to appoint an academic with experience in one of DSI’s core foundational research areas: Operational Research (e.g. vehicle routing and scheduling, applied optimisation, forecasting, sequential control of stochastic systems), Statistics (e.g. streaming and time series data, sequential decision making, modelling of real-world systems, machine learning), Computer Science (e.g. deep, learning, natural language processing, data mining, data visualisation, multi-agent systems). Given the breadth of the foundations theme, we may consider appointing two candidates to cover this theme.
We are particularly interested in candidates who have demonstrated leadership in their field, with experience in managing or guiding research teams and projects. The role will require the ability to foster collaborations across disciplines and industries, engage with external stakeholders, and contribute to shaping the future direction of data science and AI at 快播视频. Strong communication skills are essential, as theme leaders will play a pivotal role in promoting the theme both within and beyond the institution, attracting new talent, and driving forward ambitious research agendas.
Working with the support of the Directors, theme leads play a significant role in shaping the mission of the institute. Major duties of these roles are to provide research leadership and mentoring in the areas for which they are responsible, to participate in the overall management of DSI and to organise events and activities to catalyse new research. Theme leads form a key part of DSI’s management team and have a significant role in defining both strategic and operational activities. Start dates are flexible but no later than January 2025. Theme leaders would normally be appointed for a period of three years, and may be renewed. The post is open to suitably qualified academic staff who have a track record of, and commitment to, data science research in the identified areas. Prospective candidates are invited to discuss their applications informally with the DSI’s Directors Nigel Davies: n.a.davies@lancaster.ac.uk and Chris Nemeth: c.nemeth@lancaster.ac.uk
Candidates should submit a one-page statement of their interest in the role outlining their relevant experience and their vision of the topics that could form the focus of the theme area, together with an accompanying CV. We would expect theme leadership to be a significant commitment (e.g. 1 day a week) and before submitting an application, candidates should discuss it with their Head of Department and obtain consent in principle. Expressions of interest should be received no later than Friday 6th December and sent to dsi@lancaster.ac.uk with the Subject Title: Foundations of Data Science and AI Theme Leader Application.