Chair in Safety Science

Role Description

As part of a significant further investment in Computer Science, the University of York is seeking to appoint an internationally excellent Chair in Safety Science to join a vibrant and high-performing group focusing on the safety of autonomous systems and artificial intelligence (AI). York has pioneered systems safety for decades, and is now at the forefront of research into the safety of AI and machine learning (ML), particularly in support of autonomous systems and robotics.

Female candidates, and candidates who identify as Black, Asian or from a Minority Ethnic background, are strongly encouraged to apply as they are currently under-represented in senior academic roles at the University.

You will play a pivotal role in the Department of Computer Science’s mission to conduct fundamental and empirical research into the development and engineering of safe, ethical and secure computational systems. Alongside a strong record of academic achievements, we are looking for someone who will be comfortable working in a thriving multidisciplinary environment, and who values collaboration and partnership.

 As part of your role you will:

• lead and carry out internationally outstanding research in Safety Science – focusing on foundational research into the challenges introduced by AI, ML and autonomy, developing a new paradigm for system safety 
• hold responsibility for designing and delivering teaching, including continuing professional development (CPD)
• work with external partners to deliver impact and facilitate uptake of research by industry, regulators and policy makers 

Over the last few years, we have secured over £40M of investment for strategic and linked activities including: the Assuring Autonomy International Programme, the Institute for Safe Autonomy, and most recently the UKRI AI Centre for Doctoral Training in the lifelong safety assurance of AI-enabled autonomous systems.  We invite you to join our growing team in its exciting next phase.

This appointment is being made as part of wider ongoing strategic investments in the established and still growing area of safety at York. 

Closing date: 14/01/2024
Interview date: 05/02/2024

For informal enquiries: please contact Paul Ellison (HR Recruitment Adviser) paul.ellison@york.ac.uk.

This role is part of a number of senior academic appointments we are making as a department. Please see https://features.york.ac.uk/computer-science-professorial-jobs for all our roles.

For further information on the Department of Computer Science please visit; www.cs.york.ac.uk.

The University strives to be diverse and inclusive  – a place where we can ALL be ourselves.

We particularly encourage applications from people who identify as Black, Asian or from a Minority Ethnic background, who are underrepresented at the University. 

We offer family friendly, flexible working arrangements, with forums and inclusive facilities to support our staff. #EqualityatYork