Research Associate in Computer Science

Virginia AG; Charlottesville, Northern (VA, KY); Hybrid; USD 60,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Virginia Department of Computer Science invites applications for a Research Associate (Postdoctoral) position under Professor Zhe Zeng. The successful candidate will conduct research at the intersection of deep generative models, probabilistic ML, automated reasoning, and neurosymbolic AI, with opportunities to mentor students and develop proposals.

The appointment is one-year, potentially renewable, with a start date around January 1, 2027, and a salary commensurate with

Qualifications

• PhD in computer science, electrical engineering, data science, or closely related field.
• Strong machine-learning research record with rigorous math and experiments.
• Proficiency with PyTorch and related ML frameworks.

Responsibilities

• Develop research methods and conduct experiments at the intersection of deep generative models, probabilistic ML, and automated reasoning.
• Mentor graduate students and contribute to teaching and proposal development.
• Prepare technical deliverables and manuscripts for top-tier ML/AI venues.
• Collaborate with researchers across academia, industry, and government.

Skills

ML research

Planning & recognition

Probabilistic modeling

Neurosymbolic AI

PyTorch

Education

PhD in CS/EE/Data Science or related field

Tools

PyTorch

Job description

The University of Virginia Department of Computer Science is seeking applicants for a Research Associate (Postdoctoral)position under the supervision of Professor Zhe Zeng.

The postdoctoral researcher will conduct research at the intersection of deep generative models, probabilistic machine learning, automated reasoning, and neurosymbolic AI. The researcher will develop scalable and reliable methods for tightly integrating generative models with automated reasoning, with a particular focus on planning and plan recognition problems. The position will also provide opportunities to further develop skills in teaching, student mentoring, and research proposal development.

The successful candidate will play a leading role in developing research methods, conducting experiments, mentoring graduate students, and preparing technical deliverables and manuscripts for top-tier machine learning and artificial intelligence conferences and journals. The position offers opportunities to collaborate with researchers across academia, industry, and government research organizations.

Qualification Requirements:

A Ph.D. in computer science, electrical engineering, data science, or a closely related field by the start date. The candidate should have a strong machine-learning research record, rigorous mathematical and experimental skills, and the ability to deliver high-quality results on short timelines. Expertise in one or more of the following is strongly preferred: generative or transformer models, constrained machine learning, tractable probabilistic modeling. Proficiency with frameworks such as PyTorch is expected. Prior planning and plan recognition experience is highly beneficial.

Application Deadline:

Review of applications will begin on October 17, 2026, and the position will remain open until filled. The University will perform background checks on all new hires prior to employment.

This is a one-year appointment; The appointment may be renewed for an additional year contingent upon available funding and satisfactory performance. The preferred start date is January 1, 2027, or earlier, although the start date is flexible and may be negotiated.

The anticipated salary is $60,000 - $70,000, commensurate with experience

For questions regarding this position, contact Zhe Zeng, Assistant Professor, at [e-mail].

For questions regarding the application process, contact Rich Haverstrom, Faculty Search Advisor, at [e-mail].

For more information on the benefits available to postdoctoral associates at UVA, visit postdoc.virginia.edu and hr.virginia.edu/benefits.

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.