Remote Principal AI Research Scientist

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Stock options

Research funding

Conference opportunities

Health benefits

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal AI Research Scientist for a remote-first role. You will drive cutting-edge research across deep learning, NLP, computer vision, or reinforcement learning, publish in top venues, and mentor researchers while collaborating with cross-functional teams.

The role demands a Ph.D., 8+ years of AI research experience, a strong publication record, and deep expertise in at least one AI domain.

Qualifications

• PhD in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, ML or related field with AI research focus.
• Minimum of 8 years of post-doctoral or industry AI research experience.
• Outstanding publication record in top AI conferences/journals.
• Deep expertise in at least one major AI area (DL, NLP, CV, RL).
• Proficiency in Python and ML frameworks (TensorFlow, PyTorch).
• Proven track record leading research projects and mentoring researchers.

Responsibilities

• Conduct novel and high-impact AI research.
• Develop and implement state-of-the-art AI algorithms and models.
• Publish findings in leading AI conferences/journals.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to productionize research prototypes.
• Mentor junior AI researchers and engineers.
• Define research roadmaps and identify emerging AI trends.
• Present ideas to technical and executive audiences.
• Contribute to IP portfolio through patents.
• Foster innovation and scientific rigor within the team.
• Engage with the broader AI research community.

Skills

Research leadership

Mentoring

Excellent communication

Publication track record

Independent work

Education

PhD in Computer Science/AI

Tools

Python

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a visionary leader in artificial intelligence and advanced computing, is seeking a highly influential and pioneering Principal AI Research Scientist to join their entirely remote research division. This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of AI by conducting groundbreaking research in areas such as deep learning, natural language processing, computer vision, or reinforcement learning. You will lead ambitious research projects, publish in top-tier academic venues, and contribute to the development of next-generation AI technologies. The ideal candidate possesses a Ph.D. from a leading institution, a stellar publication record, and a deep passion for pushing the boundaries of artificial intelligence. As a principal scientist, you will mentor talented researchers, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and influence the strategic direction of our client's AI initiatives. This is a remote-first role, offering unparalleled flexibility and the chance to collaborate with a world-class team of scientists and engineers regardless of your geographical location. While the role is fully remote, our inspiration and foundational research often draw from the vibrant academic and technological ecosystems found in areas like Paarl, Western Cape .

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct novel and high-impact research in artificial intelligence and machine learning.
• Develop and implement state-of-the-art AI algorithms and models.
• Publish research findings in leading AI conferences and journals.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to integrate research prototypes into production systems.
• Mentor and guide junior AI researchers and engineers.
• Define research roadmaps and identify emerging trends in AI.
• Present research ideas and results to technical and executive audiences.
• Contribute to the intellectual property portfolio through patent applications.
• Foster a culture of innovation and scientific rigor within the research team.
• Engage with the broader AI research community.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, or a related field, with a focus on AI research.
• Minimum of 8 years of post-doctoral or industry research experience in AI.
• Exceptional publication record in top-tier AI conferences (e.g., NeurIPS, ICML, ICLR, CVPR, ACL) and journals.
• Deep expertise in at least one major area of AI, such as deep learning, NLP, computer vision, or reinforcement learning.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python and ML frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch).
• Demonstrated experience in leading research projects and mentoring researchers.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and effectively in a fully remote, collaborative environment.
• Proven ability to drive innovation and translate research into tangible outcomes.

Benefits

This is a fully remote position offering the ultimate flexibility. Our client provides an exceptionally competitive salary, comprehensive health and wellness benefits, a generous stock option plan, and significant research funding. Employees benefit from opportunities for professional growth, including attending and presenting at leading international conferences. We offer a dynamic, intellectually stimulating work environment where groundbreaking research is encouraged and rewarded. Performance bonuses and retirement benefits are also included. Join a world-class team at the forefront of AI innovation, working remotely with the collaborative spirit inspired by vibrant research hubs like Paarl, Western Cape .