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AI Project Advisor

Civil Service

Job Description

Job summary

The Government Office for Science works at the heart of Government, ensuring policies and decisions are informed by the best scientific evidence and strategic long-term thinking. It's an exciting time to join the organisation; we have outstanding and high-profile positions providing you an opportunity to inform and influence policy-making and the systems for use of science and engineering across government. If you are highly motivated and looking for your next career challenge we want to hear from you.

Our mission is:

  1. Science advice mechanisms that are efficient, effective, speak truth to power and are embedded irreversibly in Government systems.
  2. Visible impact through both pro-active and demand-led science advice that is relevant, excellent, and delivered fit for purpose.

Further information can be found here:

https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/government-office-for-science

We strongly believe diversity of experience, thought, perspectives, skills, and background makes us a more innovative, welcoming Department, thus making better decisions and better delivering our objectives. We are actively seeking applications from every part of the community and particularly welcome applications from candidates of any age, background, disability, or from an ethnic minority background and any other protected characteristics. This will help us move to a workforce that reflects the people we serve to deliver better policies.

We are a friendly, inclusive team and emphasise personal development. We will ensure individuals with disabilities are provided adjustments to participate in the job application and interview process. We support your wellbeing by putting flexible working at the heart of our offer; if successful, you will be able to discuss working arrangements with your new manager.

We maintain an internal surge capability of staff who may be called at short notice to support an activation of the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE). Training and support will be provided. This is an excellent opportunity to develop crisis management skills.

Job description

This role sits within the AI and Tech Engagement team and focuses on the AI technological landscape. The engagement team is one of four teams operating as Technology Science Insights. The team plans and delivers projects based on their potential to bring scientific evidence into the most pressing "Big decisions" in areas such as tech niches, international competition, leverage and AI. 

This is part of the wider function of Technology Insights Future and Foresight (TIFF) in the Government Office for Science (GOS). TIFF is a joined up capability which brings together GOS Technology and Science Insights (TSI) and the Futures and Foresight functions. Collectively we provide horizon scanning, engagement, analysis and assessment on critical S&T capabilities, emerging technologies, the geopolitical context and wider futures trends and foresight projects.

TIFF supports cross-HMG work on science, technology and innovation by building understanding on emerging issues and technologies, supporting strategic positioning and promoting futures-informed S&T policy. 

Recent TIFF work has included economic analysis informing industrial strategy and technology prioritisation for HMG Missions, tech assessments on robotics and neuromorphic computing in China, strategic futures resources such as Drivers of Change and a current Foresight project on the Future of Childhood.

It is an exciting place to work the topics we cover are fascinating, the way we approach them is uniquely interdisciplinary and we have an inclusive, highly collaborative culture with team members based across the country. Come join us!

Person specification

The AI Project Advisor will support highimpact engagement, evidence gathering and pilot projects to support science advice and accelerate responsible AI adoption across government.

The role operates at pace in a fastmoving policy and technology environment, delivering rapid, highquality analysis and advice to support senior decisionmaking.

Working closely to support the Government Chief Scientific Adviser, the post holder will help shape cross government thinking on AI, supporting the formulation and delivery of authoritative advice, briefings and assessments on new and emerging AI risks and opportunities.

This role would suit a candidate with strong communication and delivery skills, as well as science and technology background, including research and drafting skills, who is keen to lead and support projects that generate timely, high-quality evidence to inform key AI policy decisions.

The role will support in building and mobilising influential stakeholder networks spanning academia, industry, investors, industry bodies and government departments.

While prior knowledge of AI or hands-on experience with AI systems would be advantageous, it is not essential. The role would also appeal to individuals with experience in stakeholder engagement and project delivery who are looking to deepen their understanding of AI and contribute to this rapidly developing field.

Essential Criteria

  • A STEM‑related undergraduate degree (or equivalent), alongside experience in researching, drafting and producing high‑quality evidence and analysis, with the ability to communicate findings clearly both verbally and in writing.
  • Ability to build and maintain active networks of colleagues and manage stakeholder communities with differing in levels of seniority.
  • Strong organisational and delivery skills with some experience of engagement events for example briefings, roundtables or workshops.
  • Curiosity to develop knowledge of AI, building confidence in understanding and communicating how it works, including large language models and domain‑specific (narrow) AI systems.
  • Desirable Criteria

    • Familiarity with AI tools and systems, gained through personal use, training, or self-directed learning.

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