Job Opportunity: Generative AI and Intelligent Systems Engineer (KTP Associate)
Organization: Birmingham City University
Location: Onsite at Hockley Mint Limited, Hockley, Birmingham, B18 6NG
Birmingham City University is seeking a talented and ambitious graduate to join as a Generative AI and Intelligent Systems Engineer (KTP Associate). This prestigious position offers the unique opportunity to work at the intersection of academia and industry, collaborating with experts at Birmingham City University and Hockley Mint Limited. The successful candidate will leverage cutting-edge knowledge and technological innovations to drive meaningful business impacts.
This role is part of a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) co-funded by Innovate UK and Hockley Mint Limited, a collaboration designed to deliver benefits to the company, the university, and the appointed graduate. To learn more about the KTP program, please visit https://iuk-ktp.org.uk/.
Key Benefits and Development Opportunities
- Training and Development: The successful candidate will be provided with a personal development budget of £4,333 to build additional skills and expertise during the project.
- Access to BCU Resources: The KTP Associate will benefit from the full resources of Birmingham City University, including access to offices, laboratories, and the university library.
- Mentorship and Supervision: Guidance will be provided by leading academics from the Computer Science Department of the School of Architecture, Built Environment, Computing and Engineering (ABCE) at BCU. Industry mentorship will be delivered by experts at Hockley Mint Limited to ensure successful delivery of the project.
About the Project
Hockley Mint Limited (HM) is a highly regarded jewellery manufacturer aiming to transform its business operations with innovative AI-driven solutions. The KTP project will focus on creating an AI-powered digital platform allowing customers to design bespoke jewellery within their retailer network. Incorporating advanced automation, secure workflows, and integrations with global retailers, the project aims to revolutionize manufacturing while enhancing the customer experience.
Main Project Objectives:
- Develop a multilingual, conversational AI interface.
- Build AI-enabled 3D generation and rendering systems with generative AI and NLP rendering pipelines.
- Design and implement ETL/data pipelines and integrate AI systems into existing platforms.
- Redefine business models through market analysis and create training materials to embed technical knowledge within Hockley Mint Limited.
Responsibilities
The Generative AI and Intelligent Systems Engineer (KTP Associate) will:
- Lead Technical Development: Build and implement system architecture, APIs, and advanced AI-driven solutions.
- Drive Innovation: Translate academic research into commercially viable applications tailored to the business needs of Hockley Mint Limited.
- Collaboration: Act as the primary point of contact between Birmingham City University experts and Hockley Mint stakeholders.
- Business Impact: Produce deliverables meeting key project milestones and present progress to senior management.
- Knowledge Sharing: Create training materials to ensure the long-term integration of AI into the company.
- Compliance: Maintain documentation and adhere to ethical AI and data governance standards.
Skills and Experience Required
Essential Qualifications and Skills:
- A minimum 2:1 undergraduate degree in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Software Engineering, or a related discipline.
- Strong programming skills in Python.
- Experience with machine learning frameworks (PyTorch, TensorFlow) and large language models (LLMs).
- Proficiency in designing APIs, system architecture, and ETL pipelines.
- Familiarity with cloud platforms such as AWS, GCP, or Azure.
- Analytical and problem-solving expertise with a proven ability to deliver real-world solutions.
- Previous experience in innovation-led or commercially driven projects.
Desirable Skills and Experience:
- A Master’s degree or PhD in Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Generative AI, or a related field.
- Experience with generative AI technologies (e.g., Diffusion models, CLIP, NeRF, or 3D GANs).
- Knowledge of 3D tools like WebGL, GLTF, or mesh processing.
- Experience with speech-to-text systems and multi-agent frameworks (e.g., LangChain).
- Hands-on knowledge of Explainable AI tools (e.g., SHAP, LIME) and CAD/CAM systems.
- Background in manufacturing or digital commerce environments.
- A publication record in academic or professional domains (e.g., conference/journal papers).
Personal Attributes:
The ideal candidate will be enthusiastic, motivated, and dependable, with strong communication skills and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively. The role requires creativity, innovation, and a solution-oriented mindset.
Employment Details
- The successful candidate will be employed by Birmingham City University but will work full-time onsite at Hockley Mint Limited in Birmingham.
- The KTP project is planned for a duration of 26 months.
- Depending on prior membership, candidates may opt into the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) if eligible.
How to Apply
For further information, please contact:
- Gerald Feldman: [email protected]
- Essa Shahra: [email protected]
Alternatively, applications can be made directly through Birmingham City University’s recruitment portal.
Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion
Birmingham City University is committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment that champions diversity and academic freedom. By celebrating and respecting individual differences, we aim to empower everyone to achieve their full potential.
Join us in this exceptional opportunity to contribute to ground-breaking advancements at the forefront of AI and digital transformation