Senior Data Scientist

ZF Group; Chennai; Hybrid; INR 4,000,000 - 7,000,000; Full time

Job summary

ZF Group in India invites a Senior Data Scientist to lead research and development in AI/ML/DL/RL, translating complex ideas for both technical and non-technical audiences with clarity.

The role focuses on cutting‑edge generative AI, RAG architectures, and scalable ML solutions, requiring strong Python skills and experience with modern AI frameworks to deliver reliable, interpretable results.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in research development.
• Master's degree in Mathematics, Computer Science or related fields. PhD is a plus.
• Hands-on experience with generative AI architectures including GANs, VAEs, autoregressive models, Transformer‑based networks, LLMs, SLMs including model finetuning.
• Familiar with implementing RAG (Retrieval-Augmented Generation) architecture.
• Basic knowledge of AI accelerator chips
• Knowledge of MLOps practices to ensure robustness, reliability and scalability of AI systems
• Strong Python programming skills and experience with modern AI frameworks

Responsibilities

• Stay at the forefront of the field by keeping abreast of latest advancements in algorithms, tools, and theoretical frameworks.
• Conduct cutting-edge research to identify novel AI/ML methodologies, including DL, RL, Generative AI and Agentic AI.
• Perform domain-specific data analysis to identify trends, patterns, and insights relevant to business objectives.
• Collaborate with business stakeholders to translate operational challenges into analytical tasks.
• Fine-tune and optimize AI/ML solutions to reduce bias and improve performance.
• Ensure architecture and design principles support security, scalability and long-term sustainability.
• Validate model outputs to be interpretable, reliable, and actionable for decision making.
• Communicate complex AI concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.

Skills

Python

Deep learning

MLOps

Data analysis

Transformers

Education

Master's degree in CS/Math

PhD (preferred)

Tools

GANs

VAEs

LLMs

Autoregressive models

Job description

About the Team:

ZF COE Team is effectively communicate complex technical concepts related to AI, ML, DL, and RL to both technical and non-technical audiences. This might involve presenting research findings at conferences or writing papers for academic journals.

What you can look forward to as Senior Data Scientist (m/f/d):

• Stay at the forefront of the field by keeping abreast of the latest advancements in algorithms, tools, and theoretical frameworks. This might involve researching areas like interpretability of machine learning models or efficient training methods for deep neural networks.
• Conduct cutting-edge research to identify novel AI/ML methodologies, including Deep Learning (DL), Reinforcement Learning (RL), Generative AI and Agentic AI.
• Perform domain-specific data analysis to identify trends, patterns, and insights relevant to business objectives.
• Collaborate with business stakeholders to understand operational challenges and translate them into analytical tasks.
• Fine-tune and optimize existing AI/ML solutions to reduce bias and improve performance, accuracy in alignment with business goals.
• Ensure that the right architecture and design principles are consistently applied to achieve security, scalability, and long‑term sustainability.
• Validate model outputs and ensure they are interpretable, reliable, and actionable for decision‑making.
• Effectively communicate complex technical concepts related to AI, ML, DL, and RL to both technical and non-technical audiences. This might involve presenting research findings at conferences or writing papers for academic journals.

Your profile as Senior Data Scientist (m/f/d):

• 8+ years of experience in research development, with a strong understanding of data structures and algorithms.
• Master's degree in Mathematics, Computer Science or other related technical fields. Phd is good to have.
• Hands‑on experience with generative AI architectures including GANs (Generative Adversarial Networks), VAEs (Variational Autoencoders), and autoregressive models, Transformer‑based networks, LLMs, SLMs including model finetuning.
• Familiar with implementing RAG (Retrieval-Augmented Generation) architecture for sophisticated AI applications
• Basic knowledge of AI accelerator chips
• Knowledge of MLOps practices to ensure the robustness, reliability and scalability of AI systems
• Strong Python programming skills and experience with modern AI frameworks

Why you should Choose ZF Group in India :

• Innovation and Technology Leadership: ZF is at the forefront of technological advancements, offering a dynamic and innovative work environment that encourages creativity and growth.
• Diverse and Inclusive Culture: ZF fosters a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees are valued and respected, promoting a culture of collaboration and mutual support.
• Career Development: ZF is committed to the professional growth of its employees, offering extensive training programs, career development opportunities, and a clear path for advancement.
• Global Presence: As a part of a global leader in driveline and chassis technology, ZF provides opportunities to work on international projects and collaborate with teams worldwide.
• Sustainability Focus: ZF is dedicated to sustainability and environmental responsibility, actively working towards creating eco-friendly solutions and reducing its carbon footprint.
• Employee Well-being: ZF prioritizes the well‑being of its employees, providing comprehensive health and wellness programs, flexible work arrangements, and a supportive work‑life balance.