Job Description
About Us
The UCL Institute for Sustainable Heritage (ISH) is a world-leading centre within the Bartlett Faculty of the Built Environment. We are dedicated to delivering sustainable solutions to real-world cultural heritage challenges through innovative, interdisciplinary research and teaching.
Our MSc in Sustainable Heritage was the first in the sector to integrate data science into its curriculum. Since 2019, the flagship module Machine Learning for Heritage has been a cornerstone of this pioneering approach, equipping future heritage professionals with advanced analytical and computational skills.
About the Role
We are seeking a Lecturer (Teaching) in Machine Learning to lead and deliver the module BENV0115: Machine Learning for Heritage.
This is a fixed-term, full-time position available from 12 January 2026 to 30 April 2026, with the possibility of extension subject to funding. The post is based at UCL’s Bloomsbury campus, with hybrid working options available.
Key Responsibilities
Lead and deliver teaching for BENV0115: Machine Learning for Heritage (Mondays and Fridays, 9:00–12:00 during Term 2).
Teach approximately 30 postgraduate students using a combination of lectures, coding exercises, and independent study.
Deliver core topics including:
- Linear and logistic regressio
- Decision trees and random forests
- Support vector machines
- Neural networks and deep learning
- Use Python (via Google Colab) for coding and applied exercises.
- Assess students through reports and provide constructive feedback.
- Optionally update or creatively adapt existing teaching materials in collaboration with Prof. Josep Grau-Bové and Dr. Pakhee Kumar.
- Supervise MSc dissertations and participate in marking and assessment as agreed.
All teaching materials (lecture slides, recordings, and exercises) are already developed, allowing flexibility for the post-holder to teach the module as-is or to integrate elements from their own research.
About You
You will hold a PhD in a technical discipline (e.g., computer science, data science, engineering, physics, or applied mathematics) and have hands-on experience applying machine learning to real-world problems.
Essential Criteria:
Strong programming skills in Python.
Proven experience applying machine learning methods such as regression, classification, and deep learning.
Experience in university-level teaching or training, ideally at postgraduate level.
Excellent communication and presentation skills.
Desirable:
Interest in or awareness of applications of data science and AI to heritage, sustainability, or cultural environments.
Ability to engage students from diverse disciplinary backgrounds.
What We Offer
UCL offers a generous benefits package alongside this exciting academic opportunity, including:
- 41 days of annual leave (27 days leave + 8 bank holidays + 6 closure days)
- Option to purchase up to 5 additional days per year
- Defined benefit CARE pension scheme
- Cycle to Work and season ticket loan schemes
- Immigration loan and relocation support (where eligible)
- Access to on-site nursery and gym facilities
- Enhanced parental leave (maternity, paternity, and adoption)
- Employee Assistance Programme and staff wellbeing services
- Discounted private medical insurance
Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion
At UCL, we believe that diversity drives creativity and innovation. As London’s Global University, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable community where everyone can thrive.
We particularly welcome applications from candidates underrepresented in academia, including people from ethnic minority backgrounds, disabled individuals, LGBTQI+ communities, and, for senior grades, women.
The Institute for Sustainable Heritage proudly holds an Athena SWAN Silver Award, recognising our ongoing commitment to advancing gender equality and inclusivity in higher education.