Research Associate in Computer Science

King's College London is seeking to appoint a Postdoctoral Research Fellow (Research Associate) with an excellent track record in knowledge graphs, semantic technologies, and machine learning. Research topics of interest include, but are not limited to:

• Natural Language Processing (NLP)
• Large Language Models (LLMs)
• Graph Learning
• General Pre-trained Transformers
• Prompt Engineering
• Knowledge Graphs
• Knowledge Representation
• Knowledge Engineering
• Linked Data
The successful candidate will join the Distributed AI (DAI) Group in the Department of Informatics. The role focuses on neuro-symbolic AI, particularly the use of generative AI and prompt engineering to engineer trustworthy knowledge graphs. The research includes designing algorithms and architectures, as well as developing process blueprints and guidance for knowledge engineers to effectively use generative AI tools. The postholder will work closely with Prof. Elena Simperl, Dr. Albert Meroño Peñuela, and a research team of more than 15 researchers and PhD students working in the field of knowledge graphs. The role includes:
• Conducting research in neuro-symbolic AI and related fields.
• Producing high-quality scientific publications.
• Developing application showcases to demonstrate research impact.
• Supporting impact and community-building activities, including:
+ Hackathons + Workshops + Tutorials + Community meetups The research will contribute to several large collaborative projects involving application areas such as:
• Cultural heritage
• Enterprise data management
• Legal compliance
The ideal candidate will possess strong expertise in the technical areas listed above, together with a proven record of scientific excellence through publications in leading conferences and journals, as well as experience with open science and FAIR research practices. The appointment is full-time (35 hours per week) on an 18-month fixed-term contract. Part-time arrangements may be considered in exceptional circumstances. Subject to funding, there may be an opportunity to extend the appointment beyond the initial contract period., Applicants may use AI tools to assist with application preparation, for example:
• Researching the role.
• Structuring written responses.
However:
• All submitted application materials must represent the applicant's own work and experience.
• AI tools must not be used during interviews or assessment activities unless this has been agreed in advance as a reasonable adjustment.
  
  Applicants should demonstrate:
1. PhD in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, or a closely related discipline. 2. Proven experience with semantic technologies, including:Proven experience with predictive and generative AI. + Knowledge Graphs + Ontologies + Data Modelling + RDF + RDFS + OWL 3. 4. Practical experience using:Proven record of publications in leading A/A
• conferences and journals, together with experience in open science and FAIR practices.
+ Large Language Models (LLMs) + Generative AI techniques + Prompt engineering 5. 6. Strong teamwork skills demonstrated through collaborative projects, co-authored publications, or organisation of joint activities. 7. Excellent organisational and time-management skills, including experience organising scientific workshops or similar events., The following experience would be advantageous:
• Familiarity with AI-enabled tools, AI assistants, and agentic AI.
• Contributions to Wikipedia and/or Wikidata.
• Practical experience with FAIR and open science practices.
• Contributions to AI or Web standards.
• Experience communicating scientific research to non-academic audiences.
• Experience applying neuro-symbolic AI in one or more of the following domains:Track record of organising dissemination and community-building activities such as conference workshops or tutorials., Candidates who have submitted their PhD thesis and are awaiting formal award will also be considered.
  
  King's College London is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, collaborative, and welcoming academic community.
The University supports:
• Equality of opportunity.
• Academic freedom.
• Freedom of expression.
• Respectful and constructive exchange of ideas.