The University won the inaugural Universities Human Resources (UHR) award for Digital and Technological Innovation and Change for developing, in a partnership between staff and students, an intelligent job evaluation prototype system using machine learning to undertake the repetitive nature of job evaluation.

The project, led by the University’s People and Culture team, has shown how HR processes can be modernised using machine learning in order to reduce subjectivity, save administrative time and improve quality outcomes.

Involvement of academic leaders in the project has increased the confidence and credibility of the job evaluation process, with these leaders gaining deeper insight into the process and how it applies to the roles within their service areas. 

Furthermore, as a career-led University, the project has provided meaningful real-life experience for students, enabling them to apply knowledge acquired through their studies to a practical research programme. The pilot has scope to be embedded into the curriculum and act as an ongoing research project for students to continually develop, therefore complimenting the academic programme and enhancing their learning experience.

The UHR judges said: “This bold and forward-thinking team showcase what’s possible when professionals, academics, and students come together to reimagine HR through the power of AI. By using machine learning to streamline processes, reduce subjectivity, and improve outcomes, the team not only overcame financial and resource constraints but also delivered real-world impact – both for the University and beyond.

“A fantastic example of co-creation in action, this initiative accessed alternative funding, built sector-wide potential (including NHS applications), and gave students invaluable applied research experience. A real win-win-win for innovation, education, and people practices.”

Sonya Clarkson, Executive Director of People and Culture at Leeds Trinity University said: “I am delighted that we are the inaugural winners of the UHR award for Digital and Technological Innovation and Change. This is a fantastic example of finding new and more efficient ways of working and I am so proud of the team behind the project.”

The project has attracted attention from across the HR and HE community, and has already won ECC runner-up project of the year 2024 and has been shortlisted for a 2025 Educate North Innovation Award.