ML Research Engineer

Symbolica; City Of London; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A cutting-edge AI research lab in London is seeking a Machine Learning Research Engineer to develop symbolic reasoning models inspired by abstract mathematics. This onsite role involves collaborating with world-class researchers to solve complex machine reasoning problems. The ideal candidate will have a strong theoretical background, expertise in machine learning, and proficiency in functional programming. Competitive compensation includes an equity package.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Attractive equity package

Qualifications

• Strong theoretical background in abstract mathematics.
• Expertise in machine learning model development.
• Experience deploying models at scale.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research into symbolic and categorical reasoning models.
• Translate theoretical insights into scalable coding implementations.
• Develop machine learning pipelines for structured reasoning tasks.

Skills

Abstract mathematics

Category theory

Machine learning model development

Functional programming (Haskell, Scala)

Python for deep learning

Performance optimisation

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science or Applied Mathematics

PhD in a related field

Tools

CI/CD pipelines

Job description

About Us

Symbolica is an AI research lab pioneering the application of category theory to enable logical reasoning in machines.

We’re a well-resourced, nimble team of experts on a mission to bridge the gap between theoretical mathematics and cutting‑edge technologies, creating symbolic reasoning models that think like humans – precise, logical, and interpretable. While others focus on scaling data‑hungry neural networks, we’re building AI that understands the structures of thought, not just patterns in data.

Our approach combines rigorous research with fast‑paced, results‑driven execution. We’re reimagining the foundations of intelligence while simultaneously developing product‑focused machine learning models in a tight feedback loop, where research fuels application.

Founded in 2022, we have raised over $30M from leading Silicon Valley investors, including Khosla Ventures, General Catalyst, Abstract Ventures, and Day One Ventures, to push the boundaries of applying formal mathematics and logic to machine learning.

Our vision is to create AI systems that transform industries, empowering machines to solve humanity’s most complex challenges with precision and insight. Join us to define the future of AI by turning groundbreaking ideas into reality.

About the role

As a Machine Learning Research Engineer, you will play a crucial role at the intersection of theoretical research and practical application. You’ll collaborate with world‑class researchers to develop innovative symbolic reasoning models inspired by abstract mathematics and implement them at scale. This is an opportunity to work on some of the most challenging problems in machine reasoning while contributing to both foundational research and the engineering of real‑world systems.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct research into symbolic and categorical reasoning models, bridging abstract mathematics with machine learning.
• Translate complex theoretical insights into scalable, efficient coding implementations.
• Develop and optimise machine learning pipelines for structured reasoning tasks, with a focus on interpretability and performance.
• Build robust experimentation platforms for large‑scale training and evaluation of models.
• Collaborate with researchers to explore novel architectures and methodologies in logical reasoning and structured data.
• Benchmark, debug, and refine models to ensure reliability in real‑world applications.
• Stay at the forefront of advancements in mathematics, machine learning, and AI research to inspire new approaches.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, or a related field (PhD is a plus).
• Strong theoretical background in abstract mathematics, particularly category theory, type theory, or symbolic reasoning.
• Expertise in machine learning model development and optimisation, with experience in structured data or reasoning tasks.
• Proficiency in at least one functional programming language (e.g., Haskell, Scala) or extensive experience with Python for deep learning applications.
• Solid software engineering skills, including performance optimisation, version control, and CI/CD pipelines.
• Experience deploying machine learning models at scale and in production environments.
• Passion for exploring the intersection of mathematics and AI, and a collaborative mindset for working with researchers and engineers.

Compensation & Location

We offer competitive compensation, including an attractive equity package, with salary and equity levels aligned to your experience and expertise. This is an onsite role based in our London office (66 City Rd).

Visa Sponsorship

We are able to sponsor a Skilled Worker visa for qualified candidates applying to this position. This role exceeds the minimum salary threshold set by the UK government for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. English language proficiency at B2 level or higher is required.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Symbolica is an equal opportunities employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of race, gender, age, religion, disability, or sexual orientation.