Lead AI Research Scientist (Machine Learning)

Placements24; South Africa; Remote; ZAR 2,964,000 - 4,940,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work

Competitive compensation

Stock options

Healthcare coverage

Research budget

Career development

Paid holidays

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting a Lead AI Research Scientist to steer a global remote team focused on advancing machine learning and AI. You will design novel algorithms, guide research from ideation to deployment, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to translate insights into scalable solutions.

The ideal candidate has a PhD, 10+ years in AI R&D with leadership experience, and a proven publication record. This fully remote role offers significant impact and flexibility.

Qualifications

• PhD in Computer Science, AI, ML, or related field.
• 10+ years in AI R&D, with 3+ years in leadership.
• Strong ML knowledge across supervised, unsupervised, RL, and DL.
• Proficient Python and DL frameworks (TensorFlow, PyTorch).
• Proven track record of publishing in top AI venues.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a team of AI researchers and engineers.
• Conceptualize, design, and implement novel ML algorithms and DL models.
• Experiment and evaluate AI models for performance and robustness.
• Publish research in top AI conferences and journals.
• Collaborate with product teams to deploy AI solutions.
• Secure research grants and funding opportunities.
• Mentor junior researchers and support their growth.
• Define AI roadmaps and strategic directions.

Skills

Team leadership

Research lifecycle

Python programming

ML algorithm design

Remote collaboration

Critical thinking

Education

PhD in AI/ML/CS

Tools

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Cloud computing

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a forward-thinking AI research lab seeking a visionary Lead AI Research Scientist specializing in Machine Learning to join their fully remote global team. This pivotal role involves pioneering new AI algorithms and models to solve complex challenges across various industries. You will lead a team of talented researchers, guiding them through the entire research lifecycle from ideation to implementation and deployment. This position offers an unparalleled opportunity to shape the future of artificial intelligence and contribute to high-impact projects, all while enjoying the flexibility of a completely remote work arrangement. We are looking for an individual with a proven track record of innovation and a passion for pushing the boundaries of what's possible with AI.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a team of AI researchers and engineers, fostering a collaborative and innovative research environment.


• Conceptualize, design, and implement novel machine learning algorithms and deep learning models.


• Conduct rigorous experimentation and evaluation of AI models, ensuring performance, scalability, and robustness.


• Publish research findings in top-tier AI conferences and journals.


• Collaborate with product development teams to integrate AI solutions into scalable applications.


• Secure research grants and funding opportunities.


• Mentor junior researchers and contribute to their professional growth.


• Stay at the forefront of AI and machine learning research, identifying emerging trends and opportunities.


• Define research roadmaps and strategic direction for AI initiatives.

Requirements

• PhD in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, or a closely related field.


• 10+ years of experience in AI research and development, with at least 3 years in a leadership or principal scientist role.


• Deep theoretical understanding and practical expertise in various machine learning paradigms (e.g., supervised, unsupervised, reinforcement learning, deep learning).


• Strong programming skills in Python and experience with deep learning frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch).


• Proven track record of publishing influential research in top AI venues.


• Experience leading research projects from conception to completion.


• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.


• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, essential for remote team leadership.


• Demonstrated ability to work independently and effectively manage time in a distributed setting.

Benefits

• Highly competitive compensation package including performance-based bonuses.


• Stock options in a rapidly growing tech company.


• Comprehensive healthcare, dental, and vision insurance.


• Generous research budget and access to cutting-edge computational resources.


• Significant opportunities for career advancement and professional development.


• Fully remote work environment, offering unparalleled flexibility and work-life integration.


• Collaborate with world-class researchers and engineers on groundbreaking projects.


• Generous annual leave and paid holidays.