Principal AI Researcher - Machine Learning

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonuses

Health coverage

Retirement contributions

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal AI Researcher to lead groundbreaking AI research at our Pretoria, Gauteng campus. The role focuses on developing next-generation AI algorithms and models, guiding a team of researchers and engineers, and publishing results in premier venues. A Ph.D.

and a strong publication record are essential. The position offers a hybrid work model in Pretoria with a competitive compensation package and opportunities to secure research funding and collaborations with top

Qualifications

• PhD in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, or related field.
• 10+ years in AI/ML research with leadership experience.
• Strong publication record in top AI venues.

Responsibilities

• Lead research into novel ML algorithms and AI models.
• Architect complex AI systems and frameworks.
• Mentor a team of AI researchers and ML engineers.
• Publish findings in top AI conferences and journals.
• Collaborate with product teams to translate research into applications.

Skills

Leadership

Research methodology

Academic publishing

AI algorithms

Education

PhD in Computer Science / AI

Tools

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Python

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a cutting-edge technology firm renowned for its innovation in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. We are seeking a highly accomplished Principal AI Researcher to lead groundbreaking research initiatives at our Pretoria, Gauteng campus. This senior position involves spearheading the development of next-generation AI algorithms and models, pushing the boundaries of machine learning capabilities. You will guide a talented team of researchers and engineers, architect complex AI systems, and publish findings in top-tier conferences and journals. The ideal candidate possesses a Ph.D. and a strong publication record, demonstrating expertise in various ML domains and a passion for shaping the future of AI. This role offers an unparalleled opportunity to influence the direction of AI research and development in Pretoria and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the research and development of novel machine learning algorithms and AI models
• Design and architect complex AI systems and frameworks
• Mentor and guide a team of AI researchers and machine learning engineers
• Conduct in-depth theoretical and empirical research to advance AI capabilities
• Publish research findings in leading AI conferences (e.g., NeurIPS, ICML, ICLR) and journals
• Collaborate with product teams to translate research breakthroughs into practical applications
• Stay at the forefront of AI and machine learning advancements globally
• Contribute to securing research grants and funding opportunities
• Present research work to technical and non-technical audiences

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, or a related field
• 10+ years of experience in AI/ML research, with a significant portion in a lead or principal capacity
• Exceptional track record of publications in top-tier AI conferences and journals
• Deep understanding of various ML paradigms, including deep learning, reinforcement learning, and natural language processing
• Proficiency in Python and ML frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch)
• Strong software engineering skills and experience with large-scale data processing
• Proven leadership and team management abilities
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills
• Must be eligible to work in South Africa

Benefits

We offer a highly competitive compensation package, including a substantial salary and performance bonuses. Our client provides a world-class research environment with access to significant computational resources and advanced infrastructure. Employees benefit from comprehensive health coverage, retirement contributions, and extensive professional development opportunities. This role is based in Pretoria , with a flexible hybrid work model. We foster an environment that encourages innovation and collaboration, making it an ideal place for pioneering AI research.