Data Science & AI Researcher

MHA - Internal Security Department (ISD); Singapore; On-site; SGD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

The Internal Security Department (ISD) is seeking an AI researcher to lead deep applied AI research in generative AI/LLMs and machine learning. You will design research methodologies, identify innovative AI technologies for intelligence use cases, and develop prototypes to demonstrate potential applications.

Collaboration with academia and industry peers is expected to stay at the forefront of AI trends. Applicants should have a PhD or Master’s in a related field and at least 3 years of R&D

Qualifications

• Masters or PhD preferred in CS/Statistics/Engineering or equivalent
• 3+ years in R&D, NLP/LLM, ML, and AI research
• Strong Python programming and ML framework experience (TF, PyTorch, HF)

Responsibilities

• Design AI research methodologies for generative AI/LLMs
• Identify innovative AI technologies for niche intelligence use cases
• Develop prototypes and proofs-of-concept to demonstrate findings
• Collaborate with academia and industry on joint projects
• Communicate research concepts to non-technical stakeholders

Skills

Python

ML frameworks

LLM architectures

Transformer models

Problem solving

Education

PhD in CS/Statistics or related field

Master's in CS/AI or related field

Tools

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Hugging Face

Job description

What the role is:

The Internal Security Department (ISD) confronts and addresses threats to Singapore’s internal security and stability. For over 75 years, ISD and its predecessor organisations have played a central role in countering threats such as those posed by foreign subversive elements, spies, racial and religious extremists, and terrorists. A fulfilling and rewarding career awaits those who want to join in ISD’s critical mission of keeping Singapore safe, secure and sovereign for all Singaporeans.We are seeking highly motivated AI researcher to conduct deep applied AI research to contribute to the collective understanding AI, specializing in in areas such as generative AI/large language models, and machine learning and reasoning.

What you will be working on:

• Designing research and experiment methodology in artificial intelligence, including in generative AI/large language models, and machine learning and reasoning
• Conducting independent research to identify innovative AI technologies for niche intelligence use cases
• Developing prototypes and proof-of-concept applications to demonstrate the potential of AI research findings
• Engaging with academia, research institutes, and industry partners on joint research projects
• Staying abreast of the latest AI research and trends to inform project direction and methodologies
• Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to integrate AI technologies into products and services
• Contributing to the development of AI research strategies and roadmaps
• Communicating complex AI research concepts to stakeholders, including non-technical audiences

What we are looking for:

• Masters in Research or equivalent competencies is preferred
• PhD in Computer Science, Statistics, Engineering, Information Technology or equivalent competencies is preferred
• At least 3 years of experience in research and development, preferably in any of the following areas- Natural language processing, specifically in large language model (LLM) core component e.g. joint entity relation, information retrieval, prompt engineering, reasoning, sentiment analysis, vulnerabilities in LLM- Autonomous systems and agentic AI- High-dimensional or spatial statistics- Pure or applied mathematics, including (but not limited to) number theory, discrete mathematics and combinatorics, cryptography, probability, geometry and topology, algebraic geometry, and representation theory- Integration of diverse non-textual data into AI models e.g. relational databases, tabular data
• Proficient in Python and familiar with machine learning frameworks like TensorFlow, PyTorch and Hugging Face
• Hands-on experience in developing and optimizing LLM architectures such as GPT, BERT, T5 and applying them to real-world tasks
• Curious, self-motivated, resourceful, meticulous and enjoys challenges
• Excellent understanding of mathematical, statistical and analytical concepts, computer science and artificial intelligence
• Demonstrate an analytical mindset with adept problem-solving skills, solid understanding of transformer models, attention mechanisms and ability to innovate in AI Research
• Keep abreast of the latest advancements in programming-related techniques and methodologies
• Exhibit a strong drive to deliver optimal solutions within tight timelines
• Strong communication skills to collaborate across teams and present complex ideas clearly
• Comprehensive documentation of technical specifications, architectural designs and best practices

Only Singaporeans need applyWe wish to inform that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.

About MHA - Internal Security Department (ISD)

The Internal Security Department (ISD) confronts and addresses threats to Singapore’s internal security and stability. For over 75 years, ISD and its predecessor organisations have played a central role in countering threats such as those posed by foreign subversive elements, spies, racial and religious extremists, and terrorists.At the heart of our work are the collection of intelligence that enables us to size up the threats to Singapore’s internal security, and taking the executive actions necessary to overcome those threats. Every day, we collect and analyse intelligence, make impartial assessments, and take decisive action to counter the threats to Singapore’s internal security and stability, and sovereignty.