About the opportunity
University College London, in partnership with the University of Oxford and Imperial College London, invites applications for BOLD Fellows. This position is part of The British Open-ended Learning and Discovery (BOLD) Lab, a major UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) funded initiative establishing a world-leading artificial intelligence research laboratory. The initiative features an initial investment of around £8 million with potential extension, backed by substantial national compute resources. BOLD Fellows will play a leading role in management, strategic and scientific direction, independent research, and mentoring within UCL Electronic & Electrical Engineering or UCL Computer Science.
Salary and benefits
- 41 days of holiday (27 days annual leave, 8 bank holidays, and 6 closure days)
- Option to purchase 5 additional days of annual leave
- Defined benefit career average revalued earnings pension scheme (CARE)
- Cycle to work scheme, season ticket loan, and immigration loan
- Relocation support for eligible posts
- On-site nursery and gym facilities
- Enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption pay
- Staff Support Service and discounted medical insurance
Who can apply?
- Hold a relevant PhD or DPhil with significant post-qualification research experience or an extraordinary research track record
- Demonstrate evidence of research achievement at the highest international level appropriate to a Grade 10 senior appointment
- Have a strong record of publications in top-tier venues in artificial intelligence or machine learning
- Show evidence of significant influence on the field such as citation impact, invited talks, or awards
- Demonstrate potential for groundbreaking contributions in AI innovation via open-source contributions or entrepreneurship
When to apply
- Closing date is 15 September 2026.
How to apply
- Visit the official job portal and submit your application online through the UCL job details page.
- UCL redeployee candidates should contact designated staff members prior to the closing date.
Additional information
- The posts are funded by UKRI and are fixed-term for 12 months.
- UCL roles will be based in either UCL Electronic & Electrical Engineering or UCL Computer Science.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Senior researchers with an established, original track record in artificial intelligence or machine learning looking to take on high-level independence.
- Researchers motivated by building research culture, mentoring doctoral students, and collaborating across top-tier UK institutions.
- Candidates seeking substantial compute resources and leadership influence within a major national AI initiative.
What should you think carefully about?
- The position is fixed-term for 12 months, which requires planning for subsequent career steps.
- Relocation to London or commuting to UCL departments may be necessary depending on personal circumstances.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This fellowship provides a high-visibility platform to advance fundamental AI research, shape national research infrastructure, and collaborate directly with leading minds across Oxford, Imperial, and UCL.
Our take
Highly suitable for senior AI researchers aiming for leadership and high-impact scientific collaboration, though less ideal for those seeking permanent academic positions immediately.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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