Principal Research Engineer

Principal Research Engineer/Research Fellow - Distributed Data Sharing and AI for Cross-sector Industrial Systems

Job Description

The Bristol Research & Innovation Laboratory (BRIL) of Toshiba Europe Ltd. is at the cutting-edge of artificial intelligence, and digital technologies, wireless and networking systems research. Today, BRIL continues to make ground-breaking advances in emerging areas and creates technologies that work toward a more sustainable environment, ensuring Toshiba has the capabilities to adhere to its long-standing statement of being “Committed to People, Committed to the Future.” BRIL has a strong track record of leading and participating in UK/EU-funded projects and standardisation activities.

We are seeking exceptional candidate to join our dynamic team as a Principal Research Engineer or Research Fellow to lead the development of next generation technologies and strategies for distributed data sharing and integration of systems. This role focuses on innovative solutions leveraging cloud and edge technologies, enhancing data connectors, and pushing the boundaries of data integration. You will play a pivotal role in proposing novel concepts and creating proof-of-concept prototypes and exploring advancements, in cross-sector data sharing and distributed AI architectures.

Responsibilities

• Conducting industry-applied R&D such as innovative research and advanced development in the field of cross-domain data sharing and digital twins supporting services such as energy flexibility, carbon credit and digital measurement reporting and verification (dMRV).
• Networking with business and R&D divisions in Toshiba Corporation, business partners, and academia partners, etc.
• Proposing projects relevant to the target technology to EU or local external funding, then joining to deliver field trials as proof of concept, through engaging with academia and industry experts.
• Technology scouting and industry trend analysis leveraging our European presence and providing strategic feedback to Toshiba’s R&D and business operations based on these insights
• Business concept validation activities in collaboration with business divisions and business development teams
• Producing intellectual property and high-quality journal and conference papers
• Investigating relevant standardization activities for advanced technology features
• Demonstrating the ability to work with other engineers not only in EMEA but globally and showing a broad understanding of the work across the global organisation.
• Supporting BRIL’s deliverables under internal company contract and in external collaborative projects etc.

Key Qualifications

• PhD in computer science specialised on data sharing, digital twins, distributed databases, AI, or a related field with more than 3 years (principal research engineer), 5 years (research fellow) of post-doctoral or industrial experience.
• Deep understanding of data sharing fundamentals, including availability, confidentiality and integrity principles
• Strong system engineering experience related to data sharing and AI solutions as well as microservices architecture and cloud/edge hybrid deployments.
• A strong professional network and established presence within the EMEA industrial sector, as well as in data and computer science technical domains and relevant standardisation bodies.
• Proven track record of publications in major conferences and journals.
• Self-motivated with excellent problem-solving skills.
• Experience in patent applications and intellectual property management is desirable.

Required Skills

• Familiarity with data sharing standards and AI architectures, including data interoperability, system integration, and digital twin technologies.
• Experience in externally funded projects (including European), independent research within a team, and proven ability to build collaborations.
• Proficient in programming with Python, Java and SQL and testing using open-source tools.
• Understanding of database and data analysis technologies like Azure Data Explorer (ADX), PostgreSQL, MongoDB, and data driven machine learning tools such as Spark, Power BI.
• Experience with optimisation, simulation and data analysis tools such as Matlab Simulink (e.g. optimisation and ML toolboxes), PySpark and Jupyter notebooks.
• Work on projects on areas such as agentic AI, MCP, RAG, generative AI, trust and security, driving innovations from concept through PoC to MVP. Experience with semantic web technologies; RDF, OWL, knowledge graph and ontologies for data harmonisation.
• Familiarity with dataspaces, metadata standards and data governance frameworks relevant to cross-sector data exchange, data sovereignty, and usage control mechanisms.
• Develop computation models for LCA, linking data to environmental impact and product circularity goals.

Why Join Us:

• Opportunity to work on pioneering technologies in distributed AI and cross-domain data sharing.
• Engage in a dynamic and innovative work environment focused on technology development and research.
• Translate technological research into real products and solutions by working closely with business divisions.
• Contribute to high-impact research with potential for publication in esteemed journals and conferences.
• An attractive remuneration and benefits package, depending on qualifications and experience.

Embark on a journey where your expertise in distributed systems, AI and data sharing can make a significant impact across multiple sectors.