Lead AI Researcher - Machine Learning

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 2,936,000 - 4,568,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Bonuses & equity

Remote-friendly benefits

Home office allowance

Unlimited vacation

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a visionary Lead AI Researcher specializing in machine learning to drive innovation across remote locations. You will define the research agenda, mentor a team of AI scientists, and push the boundaries of ML to solve real-world problems aligned with our R&D strategy.

You will develop novel AI models, collaborate with product and engineering teams to translate breakthroughs into deployable solutions, publish in top venues, and contribute to patent activity.

Qualifications

• PhD in Computer Science, AI, ML, or related field.
• 7+ years of ML research experience with leadership.
• Publications in NeurIPS/ICML/ICLR/CVPR/ACL.
• Proficiency with TensorFlow, PyTorch or JAX.
• Strong Python programming skills.
• Exceptional remote leadership and communication.

Responsibilities

• Define and lead the research roadmap for advanced ML initiatives.
• Design, develop, and implement state-of-the-art ML models.
• Conduct cutting-edge research in NLP, CV, or RL.
• Mentor and guide a team of AI researchers and engineers remotely.
• Collaborate with product and engineering teams to translate research breakthroughs into deployable AI solutions.
• Publish research findings in top-tier AI conferences and journals, and contribute to patent applications.

Skills

Python

Machine Learning

Deep Learning

Remote leadership

Communication

Education

Ph.D. in CS/AI/ML

Tools

TensorFlow

PyTorch

JAX

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a visionary Lead AI Researcher specializing in Machine Learning to drive innovation in artificial intelligence, working remotely across all locations. This pivotal role involves defining the research agenda, leading a team of talented AI scientists, and pushing the boundaries of what's possible with ML algorithms. You will focus on developing novel AI models and applications that solve complex real-world problems, contributing significantly to the company's strategic objectives within Scientific Research & Development . This is a fully remote position, demanding exceptional self-discipline, communication, and collaboration skills.

Key Responsibilities

• Define and lead the research roadmap for advanced machine learning initiatives.
• Design, develop, and implement state-of-the-art ML algorithms and deep learning models.
• Conduct cutting-edge research in areas such as natural language processing, computer vision, or reinforcement learning.
• Mentor and guide a team of AI researchers and engineers, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence.
• Collaborate with product and engineering teams to translate research breakthroughs into deployable AI solutions.
• Publish research findings in top-tier AI conferences and journals, and contribute to patent applications.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 7 years of research experience in machine learning, with a significant portion in a leadership role.
• Proven track record of impactful research publications in leading AI venues (e.g., NeurIPS, ICML, ICLR, CVPR, ACL).
• Expertise in deep learning frameworks such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, or JAX.
• Strong programming skills in Python and experience with ML libraries.
• Exceptional ability to communicate complex technical concepts and lead remote teams effectively.

Benefits

• Top-tier compensation package, including competitive salary, substantial bonuses, and equity options.
• Comprehensive remote-first benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous allowance for home office setup and professional development.
• Unlimited vacation policy and flexible working hours.
• Opportunity to work on groundbreaking AI research with global impact.