Principal AI Scientist - Reinforcement Learning

Placements24; Sandton; On-site; ZAR 3,000,000 - 6,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equity

Medical benefits

Retirement plan

Conference budget

Research resources

Leadership role

Job summary

Placements24 in Sandton, Gauteng, is seeking a Principal AI Scientist specializing in Reinforcement Learning to lead cutting-edge RL research, mentor junior scientists, and shape the strategic direction of AI in the organization.

You will design, implement, and evaluate advanced RL algorithms for complex decision problems, publish findings at top conferences, and collaborate across robotics, gaming, and optimization teams to deliver impactful AI solutions.

Qualifications

• PhD in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, or related field with strong RL focus.
• Minimum of 8 years post-graduate research experience in AI/ML with significant RL focus.
• Proven track record in RL research with high-impact publications and patents.

Responsibilities

• Lead RL research and development, exploring novel algorithms and methodologies.
• Design, implement, and evaluate advanced RL algorithms for complex decision-making problems.
• Develop theoretical frameworks and perform rigorous mathematical analysis of RL algorithms.
• Mentor and guide a team of AI scientists and engineers, fostering scientific excellence.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to apply RL solutions to real-world challenges and product development.
• Publish research findings in top-tier AI conferences and journals.
• Represent the company at scientific conferences and engage with the research community.
• Contribute to the strategic direction of AI research within the organization.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Analytical thinking

Education

PhD in CS/AI/ML

Tools

Python

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a world-renowned leader in advanced research and development, is looking for an exceptional Principal AI Scientist specializing in Reinforcement Learning (RL) to join their prestigious team in Sandton, Gauteng . This is a highly influential role where you will lead groundbreaking research and development initiatives, pushing the frontiers of RL applications in areas such as robotics, game playing, and complex optimization problems. You will guide research directions, mentor junior scientists, and contribute significantly to the scientific output of the organization. The ideal candidate possesses a deep theoretical understanding of RL algorithms, coupled with extensive practical experience in implementing and deploying RL solutions in challenging environments. You will collaborate with a world-class team of researchers and engineers to solve some of the most complex problems in artificial intelligence. This is a unique opportunity to make a profound impact and shape the future of AI from the heart of Sandton, Gauteng .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead research and development efforts in Reinforcement Learning, exploring novel algorithms and methodologies.
• Design, implement, and evaluate advanced RL algorithms for complex decision-making problems.
• Develop theoretical frameworks and conduct rigorous mathematical analysis of RL algorithms.
• Mentor and guide a team of AI scientists and engineers, fostering a culture of scientific excellence.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to apply RL solutions to real-world challenges and product development.
• Publish research findings in top-tier AI conferences and journals.
• Represent the company at scientific conferences and engage with the broader research community.
• Contribute to the strategic direction of AI research within the organization.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, or a related quantitative field, with a strong focus on Reinforcement Learning.
• Minimum of 8 years of post-graduate research experience in AI/ML, with a significant focus on RL.
• Demonstrated track record of significant contributions to the field of Reinforcement Learning, evidenced by high-impact publications and patents.
• Expertise in various RL algorithms (e.g., Q-learning, Policy Gradients, Actor-Critic methods, Model-Based RL).
• Strong programming skills in Python, with extensive experience in deep learning frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch).
• Experience with simulation environments and large-scale RL experimentation.
• Excellent analytical, mathematical, and problem-solving skills.
• Exceptional communication and leadership abilities.

Benefits

• Executive-level compensation package, including a substantial base salary and equity.
• World-class benefits including comprehensive medical, retirement, and wellness programs.
• Significant budget for research, conferences, and professional development.
• Access to state-of-the-art computing resources and research facilities.
• Opportunity to work on highly challenging and impactful AI problems.
• Be a leader in the AI research community in Sandton, Gauteng .