Job Description

Salary

38,000 per annum

Contractual hours

37

Basis

Full-Time

Job category/type

Fixed Term - Full-Time

Job reference

REC00003972



The University of Portsmouth is a global employer of choice where exceptional people create, share and apply knowledge that makes a difference.

Experience the pride of being part of a select group - one of only four universities in the south-east of England to achieve a prestigious Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework. Additionally, we proudly rank among the top 140 universities globally in the Times Higher Young University World Rankings.

Ambition, Responsibility and Openness drive our every endeavour. Join our esteemed institution with a proven track record of success, and where dedication to excellence is key. We want people to make their mark in a professional community that truly values people, innovation, and achievement.

To develop an innovative AI-powered system that combines Machine Learning and Operational Research for automated vehicle damage assessment and repair scheduling optimisation. This project will enhance ABL 1Touch's operational efficiency and service delivery capabilities, supporting the strategic growth plans while establishing new technical benchmarks for the automotive repair sector.

This is a great opportunity for an Embedded Operational Research (OR)/Logistic/ML scientist who is keen to expand their wider commercial and project management experience as an additional training and development budget of 2,000 pa is also provided.

The Company:

ABL 1Touch is a UK-based automotive accident repair company, known for its tech-enabled, sustainable "repair over replace" approach. Founded over 25 years ago, it expanded to 24 sites by 2023. Backed by private equity, it serves major insurers and has grown rapidly, earning recognition for innovation and environmental practices.

For more information:

https://abl1touch.com/

The Project:

This will be part of a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP), which is a collaborative project between ABL1Touch group and the University of Portsmouth, awarded by Innovate UK.

Find out more about Knowledge Transfer Partnerships here: https://www.ktp-uk.org/

You will be joining a friendly team based at ABL 1Touch Group in Southampton.

In the role, you will be actively supported by KTP Advisor, KTP Support team and Academic experts at the University of Portsmouth.

This project is a two KTP Associate project. The RSO KTP Associate will be working closely with the ML/AI KTP Associate.

The Role

We are looking to recruit a second KTP Associate to join this project. The ideal candidate will have a solid foundation in OR/AI and software development, is enthusiastic about working on innovative technology within a supportive commercial environment, while also developing leadership and project management skills.

The post will provide the individual with an opportunity to make a significant contribution to the company's innovation policy.

The successful applicant will be highly motivated and able to demonstrate some previous experience in a relevant role.

This appointment is a fixed-term contract (30 months).Hybrid working is possible for this position between ABL sites in Portsmouth or Southampton, with a need to attend the Reigate office or other locations that allow you to spend time with the relevant operational teams. You will also be able to work from home where the need to be with an ABL team member is limited.

The interviews are currently anticipated to be held on Thursday 27th and Friday 28th November 2025.

If you have any queries regarding this position, please contact Ashley Foskett via ktp@port.ac.uk.

Employer, External Only:

University of Portsmouth Academic Services Ltd (UASL)

Discover the advantages of joining our university. We offer a range of attractive benefits and opportunities to enhance your work experience:

Competitive salary, including incremental progression within your scale. Generous pension scheme. Family-friendly policies supporting flexible working. Staff discounts and loyalty schemes. Staff car parking and discounted public travel. Excellent training and development opportunities. Staff wellbeing programmes. Recreation facilities, including discounted gym membership, food on campus schemes, use of the Library and staff social activities. Discounted learning. Start-up business mentoring from expert entrepreneurs via our Entrepreneurs in Residence programme. The perks don't stop there - click 'apply' for further information on My Reward and Benefits

UKVI Statement

Prior to submitting your application, kindly ensure that you can either demonstrate or acquire the necessary right to work in the UK. If you currently do not possess the right to work in the UK, please be aware that our offer of employment is conditional upon you obtaining it.

ED&I Statement:

We are strongly dedicated to embedding equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) within our community. As an Athena SWAN and Race Equality Charter award holder, a member of Stonewall and a Disability Confident Employer we are passionate about creating a welcoming and inclusive environment, regardless of your background. We welcome applications from people with a wide range of skills, perspectives and experiences. In addition, we want our workforce to be representative of our diverse student population. Please see our EDI Framework and objectives.

Please note that this vacancy may be closed earlier than advertised, so early applications are advised.