Developing AI skills in the UKRI-supported community

Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming research and innovation, but there is a concern that the skills needed to use, adapt and develop AI are not keeping pace with demand. This study examines the demand for, and supply of, AI skills in the UKRI-supported community. Drawing on interviews, consultations and workshops across the community, the study identifies gaps in AI literacy, in the ability to apply AI within specific disciplines and in the responsible and ethical use of AI. It also highlights structural challenges, including a fragmented training landscape, difficulties retaining digital talent in academia, limited diversity within the AI workforce, and resourcing constraints.

To bring greater clarity to this challenge, and by contextualising existing AI skills frameworks, the report introduces a new typology of AI users in the UKRI-supported community. All users need more than AI capabilities as safe and effective use of AI depends on combining AI knowledge with domain expertise, ethical awareness and softer skills such as critical thinking and collaboration. Although the UK already benefits from substantial investment in AI education and infrastructure, the evidence suggests that many in the UKRI-supported community struggle to access the right development opportunities.

The report concludes that UKRI has an opportunity to bring coherence, visibility and rigour to a fragmented AI skills landscape for the community it supports. A coordinated approach is proposed, which includes AI Skills Champions, curated training pathways, stronger guidance on responsible AI, evaluation of existing mechanisms of retaining technical talent, more inclusive learning cultures, and better integration of people, data and compute resources. The proposed opportunities provide a foundation to build a capable, inclusive and resilient AI skills ecosystem across UKRI that supports both scientific excellence and wider societal benefit.

Download full report using the button on the right