Principal AI Research Scientist

Placements24; Centurion; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Research funding

Relocation assistance

Top facilities

Job summary

Placements24 in Centurion, Gauteng, South Africa, seeks a Principal AI Research Scientist to lead a cutting-edge research division. You will mentor researchers, develop novel AI algorithms, and publish high-impact work while translating findings into practical, production-ready solutions.

The role requires a PhD with a strong publication record and 10+ years of post-doctoral AI research experience, with expertise in NLP, CV, RL, or generative models.

Qualifications

• PhD with strong publication record in AI.
• 10+ years post-doctoral AI research.
• Expertise in NLP, CV, RL, or generative models.
• Proficient in Python and DL frameworks.
• Experience with large-scale data and distributed systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead and conduct original research in AI domains such as NLP, CV, RL, or generative models.
• Develop and implement novel AI algorithms and models, pushing the boundaries of current technology.
• Design and execute complex experiments to validate research hypotheses and measure performance.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to transition research prototypes into production-ready systems.
• Publish research findings in top-tier conferences and journals.
• Mentor and guide junior researchers and engineers, fostering scientific excellence.
• Stay abreast of the latest academic and industry research; identify trends and opportunities.
• Present findings to internal stakeholders and external audiences.
• Contribute to the strategic direction of the company's AI research roadmap.

Skills

AI research leadership

Mentoring

Python

PyTorch

TensorFlow

Education

PhD in CS/AI

Tools

Python

PyTorch

TensorFlow

MPI / distributed computing

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneer in the field of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies, is seeking a distinguished Principal AI Research Scientist to join their cutting-edge research division in Centurion, Gauteng, ZA . This is a rare opportunity for a visionary scientist to lead groundbreaking research initiatives, mentor a team of talented researchers, and contribute to the development of next-generation AI capabilities. You will be at the forefront of innovation, exploring novel algorithms, conducting rigorous experimentation, and publishing high-impact research. The ideal candidate will possess a deep theoretical understanding of AI and a proven ability to translate complex research concepts into practical applications. This role requires a passion for discovery, a commitment to scientific rigor, and the ability to inspire and guide a team of brilliant minds in a collaborative, challenging environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and conduct original research in key AI domains such as deep learning, natural language processing, computer vision, or reinforcement learning.
• Develop and implement novel AI algorithms and models, pushing the boundaries of current technology.
• Design and execute complex experiments to validate research hypotheses and measure performance.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to transition research prototypes into production-ready systems.
• Publish research findings in top-tier academic conferences and journals.
• Mentor and guide junior researchers and engineers, fostering a culture of scientific excellence.
• Stay abreast of the latest academic and industry research, identifying emerging trends and opportunities.
• Present research findings to internal stakeholders and external audiences.
• Contribute to the strategic direction of the company's AI research roadmap.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, or a related field with a strong publication record.
• 10+ years of post-doctoral research experience in AI, with a significant focus on original research.
• Demonstrated expertise in one or more AI subfields (e.g., NLP, CV, RL, Generative Models).
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, C++, or Java, and deep learning frameworks (TensorFlow, PyTorch).
• Experience with large-scale data processing and distributed computing environments.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to lead research projects and mentor junior team members.
• Experience in translating research ideas into practical applications or product features.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary, extensive research funding, state-of-the-art research facilities, and unparalleled opportunities for professional growth and impact.
• This role is based in Centurion, Gauteng , offering a chance to work on truly transformative AI advancements within a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment.
• Comprehensive benefits and relocation assistance are available.