Research Scientist

University of Virginia; Charlottesville (VA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious educational institution is seeking a Research Scientist with expertise in Large Language Models (LLMs) to join their Data Analytics Center. This role entails collaborating with researchers to apply AI techniques to diverse datasets and enhance research outcomes. Ideal candidates must have an advanced degree and at least two years of relevant experience. The job offers a full-time position in Charlottesville, with opportunities for flexible work arrangements, contributing to innovative data-driven discoveries.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years of relevant work experience.
• 3+ years of academic or applied research experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with researchers to analyze datasets and determine deep learning needs.
• Perform data preprocessing and apply LLMs and AI models to research problems.
• Optimize LLM performance on high-performance computing systems.
• Manage research projects to ensure timely and rigorous delivery.

Skills

Python programming

AI systems and machine learning algorithms

Analytical and problem-solving abilities

Communication skills

Collaboration with diverse disciplines

Relationship-building with stakeholders

Education

Advanced degree (Master's or higher)

PhD in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Data Science, or related field

Tools

PyTorch

TensorFlow

Hugging Face

Job description

Department Overview

The University of Virginia’s Research Computing (RC) team, part of UVA Information Technology Services (ITS), supports cutting‑edge research across the institution by providing advanced computational resources and expertise. Within RC, the Data Analytics Center (DAC) enables interdisciplinary collaboration by helping researchers apply modern data science and AI techniques to complex problems. UVA ITS does more than support the UVA community — we empower and move it forward. With every partnership and every solution, we are shaping a culture and ecosystem where learning and discovery thrive.

Position Summary

The University of Virginia is seeking a Research Scientist with expertise in Large Language Models (LLMs) to join the Data Analytics Center (DAC) within Research Computing. This role will partner directly with researchers across disciplines to apply LLMs and AI techniques to diverse datasets, enabling innovative research outcomes. As a key member of the Research Computing team, you will contribute technical expertise in deep learning and LLMs, support high‑impact research initiatives, and help advance UVA’s leadership in data‑driven discovery.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with researchers to understand datasets and analytical requirements
• Perform data preprocessing and analysis to identify appropriate deep learning and LLM approaches
• Select, fine‑tune, and apply LLMs and AI models to complex research problems
• Optimize LLM performance on HPC systems, including parallel implementations
• Manage AI‑based research projects to ensure timely delivery and scientific rigor
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and research outputs
• Develop and deliver training sessions and workshops on LLMs for the UVA community
• Partner with the DAC team to share programming techniques and best practices

Education

Minimum Qualifications: Advanced degree (Master’s or higher).

Experience

At least 2 years of relevant work experience.

Skills

• Proficiency in Python programming
• Demonstrated expertise in AI systems and machine learning algorithms
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to collaborate with researchers across diverse disciplines
• Strong relationship‑building skills with technical and non‑technical stakeholders

Additional Requirements

• U.S. citizenship or permanent residency required due to access to high‑security data environments
• Background check required
• This position will not sponsor applicants requiring a visa

Preferred Qualifications

• PhD in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Data Science, or related field

Experience (Preferred)

3+ years of academic or applied research experience.

Technical Skills

• Deep understanding of transformer architectures (attention, tokenization, embeddings, positional encoding, scaling)
• Experience with fine‑tuning techniques (supervised fine‑tuning, instruction tuning, RLHF, domain adaptation)
• Proficiency with AI frameworks such as PyTorch, TensorFlow, and Hugging Face
• Experience with LLM evaluation and benchmarking methodologies
• Familiarity with generative or probabilistic modeling

Additional Knowledge

• Understanding of LLM risks such as hallucinations and bias, and responsible AI practices

Physical Demands

This is primarily a sedentary role. The position may require the ability to sit for extended periods and use a computer for prolonged durations. This is primarily a sedentary job involving extensive use of desktop computers. The job does occasionally require traveling some distance to attend meetings, and programs.

Position Type & Work Location

• Full‑time
• Located in Charlottesville, VA
• Flexible work arrangements may be available

This position has committed funding through June 2028; continuation is dependent on the availability of funding.

About UVA And The Community

The University of Virginia is a highly regarded public institution known for its commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and service. Located in Charlottesville, UVA offers a vibrant community with a high quality of life, combining rich history with a dynamic and forward‑looking environment. UVA fosters a collaborative culture that values diversity, equity, and inclusion, and is dedicated to supporting employees’ professional growth and work‑life balance.

Application Timeline

Review of applications will begin after the position has been posted for a minimum of five days.

How To Apply

Please apply online through the University of Virginia Careers portal and search for R0081788. Complete the application and upload the following required materials.

• Cover letter
• Resume

Reference Check Process

Reference checks will be conducted via UVA’s standard SkillSurvey process, requiring a minimum of three completed references.

Contact

Bill Crane
Senior Talent Acquisition Recruiter
University of Virginia
[e-mail]

Minimum Requirements

Education: Bachelor’s Degree required.

Experience: 3+ years relevant experience required.

Licensure: None.

Equal Opportunity Statement

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.