Research Scientist

Workman Labs; Emeryville (CA); Hybrid; USD 163,000 - 211,000; Full time

Job summary

Pixar and Disney’s production research environment in Emeryville seeks a mid-level researcher to tackle world-class graphics and AI challenges. You will identify complex problems, design scalable algorithms, and prototype software for production use.

The role requires a PhD and 2+ years of post-graduate research, with a track record of publications in top venues. Collaboration with artists and engineers under tight deadlines is essential.

Qualifications

• PhD in CS/AI or related field.
• 2+ years post-graduate research experience.
• Publications in top venues (SIGGRAPH, CVPR, NeurIPS).
• Deep expertise in graphics/AI domain.
• Strong coding and analytical skills.
• Excellent communication and writing abilities.

Responsibilities

• Identify and solve complex graphics/AI problems; design and deploy scalable algorithms and prototype software.
• Partner with artists, technical directors, and engineers on production challenges under deadline pressure.
• Lead research projects, publish in peer-reviewed venues, and maintain research visibility.
• Monitor emerging technologies and recommend studio adoption.

Skills

Post-grad research experience

Publications in top venues

Graphics/AI domain expertise

Strong coding skills

Excellent communication

Education

PhD in Computer Science or related field

Job description

Conduct world-class research in computer graphics and AI to develop innovative solutions for Pixar and Disney film productions, bridging academic research with studio application.

$162,945 – $210,870 / yr

Location

On-site

Seniority

Mid

Compared with 9 other Research roles: Common across similar roles Unique to this role

What you'll do

Responsibilities

• Identify and solve complex graphics/AI problems; design and deploy scalable algorithms and prototype software Unique
• Partner with artists, technical directors, and engineers on production challenges under deadline pressure Unique
• Lead research projects, publish in peer-reviewed venues (SIGGRAPH), and maintain Pixar's research visibility Unique
• Monitor emerging technologies and recommend studio adoption Unique

What you'll need

Experience

• Ph.D. in Computer Science, AI, or related field
• 2+ years post-graduate research experience (academia or industry R&D) Unique
• Sustained history of original research and publications in top venues (ACM SIGGRAPH, CVPR, NeurIPS)
• Deep expertise in at least one graphics/AI domain Unique
• Solid coding skills and ability to analyze cutting-edge technologies Unique
• Excellent communication, presentation, and technical writing abilities Unique