Machine Learning Research Engineer

Institute of Technology in Architecture, ETH Zurich; Zurich; Hybrid; CAD 157,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology institution in Zurich is looking for a skilled Machine Learning Engineer. You will be involved in developing and maintaining software for training large-scale neural networks, contributing to cutting-edge research in AI. Ideal candidates should have a Master's degree, strong programming skills in Python, and experience with machine learning frameworks. This role offers collaboration with top researchers and engineers, flexible working arrangements, and opportunities for professional development.

Benefits

Flexible working arrangements

Professional development opportunities

Collaboration with top researchers

Access to state-of-the-art supercomputing infrastructure

Qualifications

• Proven experience in machine learning and neural network architectures.
• Strong programming skills in Python and familiarity with PyTorch.
• Experience with software development practices, including version control systems, debugging, testing, and deployment.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain software for training large-scale neural networks.
• Work with researchers and engineers to design scalable solutions.
• Optimize existing machine learning frameworks for performance.

Skills

Machine learning

Python

Neural network architectures

PyTorch

Problem-solving

Analytical skills

Education

Master’s degree in Computer Science or related field

Tools

Version control systems

Job description

Overview

We are seeking a skilled Machine Learning Engineer to join our dynamic team. The ideal candidate will be involved in the development, optimization, and maintenance of our codebase used for training large generative neural network models. This role requires a strong background in machine learning, software development, and the ability to work collaboratively in a research-focused environment.

Project background

The Swiss AI Initiative is a collaborative research project led by ETH Zurich and EPFL, focused on developing responsible and transparent generative AI. A significant project of this initiative is the Large Language Model (LLM) effort, which aims to create state-of-the-art language models at various scales, including an ambitious 70B parameter model.

This work leverages the Alps supercomputer at the Swiss National Supercomputing Centre (CSCS), which features over 10,000 NVIDIA Grace Hopper GPUs, making it one of the most powerful AI-focused computing resources in Europe. The Swiss AI Initiative plans to distribute 15-20 million GPU hours annually to support various research and development projects in AI.

As a machine learning engineer in this project, you will contribute to the development and optimization of the training pipelines for these large-scale models, working at the intersection of cutting-edge research and high-performance computing to advance Switzerland's position in AI innovation.

Job Description

As a machine learning research engineer, you will be responsible for developing and maintaining software for training large-scale neural networks, such as large language models. You will work closely with researchers and other engineers to design and implement scalable solutions for model training, evaluation, and deployment. A key aspect of your role will involve optimizing existing machine learning frameworks to improve performance and efficiency.

To excel in this position, you will need to stay updated with the latest advancements in AI and machine learning technologies. You will actively participate in code reviews and maintain comprehensive documentation to ensure code quality and reproducibility. Additionally, you may be expected to contribute to research papers and technical reports as needed, helping to disseminate our team's technical achievements and research findings to the broader scientific community.

Profile/Qualifications

• Master’s degree or higher in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, or related field.
• Proven experience in machine learning and neural network architectures.
• Strong programming skills in Python and familiarity with PyTorch.
• Experience with software development practices, including version control systems, debugging, testing, and deployment.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and strong analytical skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a team as well as independently.

Workplace and benefits

We offer:

• A stimulating academic environment at one of the world's leading technical universities
• The opportunity to work with state-of-the-art supercomputing infrastructure and cutting-edge AI research
• Collaboration with top researchers and engineers from ETH Zurich, EPFL, CSCS, and other Swiss institutions
• Flexible working arrangements, including options for remote work
• Professional development opportunities, including conference attendance and specialized training
• The chance to contribute to open-source projects with global impact
• Access to the broader Swiss academic ecosystem and industry partnerships
• Being part of Switzerland's sovereign AI development, working on technology with national significance

Diversity and application

ETH Zurich values diversity and promotes an inclusive culture. We encourage equality of opportunity, value diversity, and strive to maintain a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish. For more information, see our Equal Opportunities and Diversity resources.

Curious? We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents:

• CV/Resume
• Cover letter explaining your interest and qualifications
• Academic transcripts
• Contact information for 2-3 references
• Links to GitHub repositories or other examples of your programming work (if available)

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

Further information about the ETH AI Center and the Swiss AI Initiative can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Dr. Imanol Schlag, email [e-mail] (no applications).

For recruitment services the GTC of ETH Zurich apply.

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.