Principal RL Scientist: Lead Breakthrough AI Research

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

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.