Senior Data Scientist – Machine Learning -  Defence – Eligible for SC

Senior Data Scientist – Machine Learning - Defence – Hybrid – Eligible for SC

I’m working with a leading Tech company that provide Machine Learning and Data Science expertise to the Defence sector, developing advanced analytics and AI solutions. They collect their own data for building and deploying cutting-edge Machine Learning technologies that enhance national security. They are in the process of building a new Data Science / AI team from the ground up and you'll have the opportunity to shape the technical direction and capabilities of their products. This will be a truly greenfield role where you get to build something from scratch. Experience of doing this previously will be highly valuable as will experience in the Defence sector.

The Role

As the successful Senior Data Scientist, you'll be part of a small team developing AI solutions for defence applications, working with unique datasets . This position offers the chance to apply machine learning in an environment with direct impact on real-world operations.

They provide intelligence data to support Defence operations so we need someone who is ethically aligned with their business mission.

Responsibilities

• Apply data science techniques to defence challenges including Object Detection, Track Fusion, Causal NetworksGraph Data / Clustering, Reinforcement Learning, and LLM/RAG deployment
  
  
• Conduct ML research and lead operational deployment to build models from scratch
  
  
• Mentor junior team members
  
  
• Implement Data Science best practices
  
  
• Stay current with emerging trends in AI, sensor technologies, and simulation techniques
  
  Requirements
  
  
• PhD or an MSc in a quantitative field (Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, or related STEM discipline)
  
  
• AT least 3-4 years Data Science experience and proven skills in a Senior Data Scientist role.
  
  
• Strong experience of at least one of the following and appreciation of the rest: Object Detection, Track Fusion, Causal Networks, Reinforcement Learning, and LLM/RAG deployment
  
  
• Strong Python programming skills and proficiency with ML libraries
  
  
• Familiarity with MLOps and Cloud platforms (Azure preferred – Azure Cloud Platform, Azure DevOps, Azure AI tools)
  
  
• Security clearance (SC) essential or the ability to obtain it
  
  
• Clear communication skills for technical and non-technical audiences
  
  What Sets Them Apart
  
  
• Direct Data Access: They collect their own data, eliminating the data silo issues common in defence work
  
  
• End-to-End Development: Build solutions from scratch and see them deployed in the real world
  
  
• Practical Impact: Contribute to projects that enhance national security
  
  
• Balanced Approach: Initially 80% operational work and 20% research, shifting toward more research as capabilities mature
  
  
• Innovation Potential: Opportunity to develop ideas that could become standalone products
  
  Work Arrangement
  
  
• Hybrid working (minimum one day per week in office)
  
  
• Office locations in London, Oxford or Lincolnshire
  
  
• Salary: Circa £80,000 (based on experience) + bonus + benefits