Senior Research Scientist - Fraud ML & Graph Models

Plaid; New York (NY); On-site; USD 140,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

Plaid is seeking a Senior Research Scientist to lead applied research in fraud detection, collaborating with ML Engineers and Data Scientists. The role focuses on graph neural networks, transformers, and multimodal data to strengthen Plaid’s fraud defenses across the network.

You will design rigorous experiments, translate findings into production-ready systems, and communicate results internally and externally to raise the technical bar for fraud ML at Plaid.

Qualifications

• PhD strongly preferred; candidates without a PhD may be considered with equivalent research contributions.
• 2-4+ years of industry or research lab experience with leadership and impact.
• Strong scientific rigor and clear written/verbal communication.
• Proficiency in Python and building high-quality research prototypes for production.

Responsibilities

• Research and prototype state-of-the-art graph ML, sequential modeling, and multimodal approaches for fraud detection.
• Own and execute a research roadmap translating ideas into production solutions with measurable impact.
• Publish and share applied research, collaborating with Data, Product, and Engineering teams.

Skills

Python

Scientific writing

Research leadership

Communication

Education

PhD in ML / CS / Stats

Tools

PyTorch

TensorFlow

Job description

Plaid is seeking a Senior Research Scientist to lead applied research in fraud detection, collaborating with ML Engineers and Data Scientists. The role focuses on graph neural networks, transformers, and multimodal data to strengthen Plaid’s fraud defenses across the network.

You will design rigorous experiments, translate findings into production-ready systems, and communicate results internally and externally to raise the technical bar for fraud ML at Plaid.