Location: United States (Remote)
YZi Labs is looking for a Background Research Analyst (AI & Emerging Technologies) to conduct research on AI and other emerging technologies, identify breakthrough innovations, and support our investment and ecosystem initiatives across AI and other new technology areas.
This role is ideal for someone with a strong technical background, deep curiosity about technological innovation and AI advancements, and the ability to bridge cutting‑edge research, engineering trends, and real‑world applications.
You will work closely with researchers, founders, engineers, investors, and ecosystem partners to understand the latest developments in AI and other emerging technologies and identify high‑potential opportunities.
YZi Labs invests in and supports innovative companies building the future of technology across Web3, AI, and emerging industries.
We are focused on discovering exceptional founders, breakthrough technologies, and transformative ideas that can shape the next generation of the digital economy.
What You'll Do
- Conduct background research and analyze emerging technologies, including but not limited to:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- AI Agents
- Generative AI
- AI infrastructure and developer ecosystems
- AI + Web3 applications
- Other emerging technology sectors
- Track the latest AI research papers, open‑source projects, and industry developments.
- Evaluate technical innovations, market trends, and potential real‑world applications.
- Develop research reports and insights to support investment decisions and ecosystem strategies.
- Build deep understanding of the global AI ecosystem, including leading companies, researchers, startups, open‑source communities, and technical trends.
- Develop relationships with AI founders, researchers, engineers, and ecosystem builders.
- Identify promising AI startups, technologies, and research directions.
- Stay updated on major AI advancements from academia and industry.
Technical Due Diligence & Investment Support
- Support technical evaluation of AI projects and startups.
- Assess technical architecture, product feasibility, scalability, and competitive advantages.
- Collaborate with investment teams to provide technical perspectives during evaluation processes.
- Translate complex technical concepts into clear insights for non‑technical stakeholders.
AI Experimentation & Internal Enablement
- Explore and test emerging AI tools, models, and frameworks.
- Identify opportunities to apply AI technologies to improve internal workflows and productivity.
- Support AI‑related initiatives and other emerging technologies across YZi Labs and portfolio companies.
What We're Looking For
- Strong technical background in Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Computer Science, or related fields.
- Experience working with AI technologies, research, engineering, or AI product development.
- Deep understanding of current AI trends, technologies, and ecosystem landscape.
- Ability to read and understand AI research papers and technical documentation.
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to evaluate technical opportunities and market potential.
- Passion for emerging technologies and curiosity about the future of AI.
- Strong communication skills with the ability to explain complex technical concepts clearly.
- Ability to work independently in a fast‑paced, global environment.
Nice to Have
- Experience with:
- LLMs and AI Agents
- AI infrastructure and ML platforms
- AI + Crypto / Web3 applications
- Research publications, open‑source contributions, or technical projects
- Experience in AI startups, research labs, venture capital, consulting, or technology companies
- Existing network within the AI research or startup ecosystem
Why Join YZi Labs?
Work at the intersection of AI, Web3, and emerging technologies.
Engage directly with leading founders, researchers, and innovators globally.
Help identify and understand the next generation of transformative technologies.
Contribute research and insights that support YZi Labs' investment and ecosystem strategy.