Part-Time R&D Funding Specialist
A note on flexibility: This position is ideal for professionals with existing commitments (e.g., at a university or research institution) seeking a high-impact, flexible role. (A standard check for conflicts of interest will apply).
About SKY ENGINE AI - we are pioneering advanced simulation intelligence and synthetic data technologies that empower AI to see, reason, and interact with the real world safely and efficiently. In collaboration with NVIDIA and Microsoft, we drive innovation in medical imaging, healthcare AI, robotics, and computer vision.
We are expanding our R&D operations and looking for a motivated and experienced R&D Funding Specialist to help us secure UK government and EU research and development funding that supports our deep tech roadmap.
Role Overview
We have an ambitious R&D roadmap and have already identified a strategic pipeline of high-value UK and EU grants. We are not looking for someone to just find opportunities; we are looking for an expert to take ownership of this pipeline, refine it, and lead the execution of winning proposals.
The successful candidate will lead the full proposal lifecycle, from strategy to submission, focusing on the specific, high-impact programmes that match our “deep tech” profile.
Key Responsibilities
- Execute a Strategic Funding Roadmap: Take ownership of our grant pipeline, prioritizing and executing on key opportunities to fund our R&D.
- Lead UK Grant Submissions: Lead the full proposal lifecycle for high-value UK grants, specifically targeting Biomedical Catalyst, Innovate UK competitions (e.g., ADOPT Industrial Digital Technologies, Agentic AI calls), and related R&D funds.
- Develop & Manage EU Strategy: Develop our EU funding strategy, with a primary focus on EIC Accelerator (as a solo SME) and strategically building consortia for Horizon Europe and Digital Europe Programme calls.
- Translate "Deep Tech" to "Funder Value": Collaborate intensively with our R&D team and leadership to translate complex technical concepts (AI, simulation, robotics) into compelling, funder-focused narratives.
- Build & Manage Consortia: (For EU grants) Actively identify, vet, and liaise with academic and industrial partners to build winning consortia.
- Manage Post-Award Compliance: Oversee post-award reporting, budgeting, and communication with funding bodies to ensure full compliance.
Requirements
- A Portfolio of Verifiable Wins: This is essential. We need a proven track record of securing six- to seven-figure funding from at least one of our primary target programmes: Biomedical Catalyst, Innovate UK (high-value R&D calls), or the EIC Accelerator.
- EU Grant Experience: Demonstrable experience with Horizon Europe consortium-based grants (as a partner or coordinator) is a major advantage.
- Deep Tech Fluency: The ability to rapidly understand 'deep tech' concepts (AI, machine learning, robotics) and articulate their "Impact" and "Innovation" (TRLs).
- Strategic & Independent: A proactive, self-managing individual who can handle the entire process from strategy to submission.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications
- A background in AI, machine learning, computer vision, robotics, or related scientific disciplines.
- Existing, active connections within the UK or EU innovation ecosystems (universities, research centres, partner companies).
- Proven experience in building and managing collaborative projects with academic and industrial partners.
How to Apply
To apply, please submit your CV and a brief, one-page Funding Portfolio.
Your portfolio should outline:
- The 2-3 most significant/relevant grants you have secured.
- The specific programme (e.g., 'Biomedical Catalyst 2024', 'EIC Accelerator 2023').
- The approximate funding amount secured.
- Your specific role in the proposal (e.g., 'sole author', 'consortium lead', 'partner coordinator').
SKY ENGINE AI is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, gender identity or expression, marital status, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, race, religion, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws, regulations and ordinances.
