Head of Enterprise AI Research

Cisco Systems; San Jose (CA); On-site; USD 216,000 - 281,000; Full time

Job summary

Cisco Systems is seeking a senior AI research leader to drive applied AI initiatives across strategic domains, translating research into enterprise-scale solutions. You will mentor teams, shape roadmaps, and ensure responsible, secure AI development aligned with Cisco’s governance standards.

You will collaborate with PM, Engineering, and Design to deliver impactful AI capabilities that integrate into enterprise products, while advancing the field through publications and partnerships.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, AI, ML, or related field plus 8+ years of research experience.
• Experience leading/doing advanced AI research in areas like representation learning or structured prediction.
• Proven ability to apply advanced AI techniques to enterprise challenges in networking, security, or HCI.
• Experience collaborating with Product Management, Engineering, and Design to translate business needs into research roadmaps.
• Experience ensuring AI research adheres to ethical standards and data governance policies.

Responsibilities

• Lead applied AI research at scale across strategic domains (networking, security, HCI).
• Define long-term research strategy and priorities aligned with enterprise goals.
• Translate research outcomes into production-ready, scalable AI solutions.
• Mentor and develop AI researchers; foster a rigorous, collaborative culture.
• Publish and participate in external AI venues while safeguarding IP.

Skills

AI research leadership

Representation learning

Structured prediction

Deep learning architectures

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science/AI/ML

Job description

Cisco Systems is seeking a senior AI research leader to drive applied AI initiatives across strategic domains, translating research into enterprise-scale solutions. You will mentor teams, shape roadmaps, and ensure responsible, secure AI development aligned with Cisco’s governance standards.

You will collaborate with PM, Engineering, and Design to deliver impactful AI capabilities that integrate into enterprise products, while advancing the field through publications and partnerships.