Senior Ai/Ml Research Lead — Randburg

Placements24; Gauteng; Híbrido; ZAR 1.000.000 - 2.000.000; Jornada completa

Ventajas ofrecidas por este puesto de trabajo

Competitive salary

Health insurance

R&D budget

Conference attendance

Professional growth opportunities

Descripción de la vacante

Placements24 is seeking a Senior AI/ML Researcher specializing in reinforcement learning (RL) to lead advanced research in Sandton, Gauteng. The role combines independent exploration with collaboration across a dedicated research team, within a hybrid work model.

You will design novel RL algorithms, train agents for robotics and autonomous systems, and publish your findings at premier conferences. The position emphasizes scientific excellence and strategic AI direction.

Formación

• PhD or MSc in CS/AI/ML or related field.
• Proven RL research track record with publications.
• Strong theoretical and practical RL knowledge (Q-learning, Policy Gradients, Actor-Critic).
• Proficiency in Python and DL frameworks (TensorFlow, PyTorch, Keras).

Responsabilidades

• Conduct cutting-edge RD in reinforcement learning, deep RL, and related areas.
• Design, implement, and evaluate novel RL algorithms.
• Develop and train RL agents for robotics, gaming, autonomous systems.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to translate research to apps.
• Publish findings in top AI conferences/journals (NeurIPS, ICML, ICLR).
• Stay updated with RL and broader ML advances.
• Mentor junior researchers and interns.
• Contribute to strategic AI research directions.
• Develop benchmarks and evaluation methodologies for RL.

Conocimientos

PhD/MS in CS/AI/ML

Reinforcement Learning (RL)

Python

TensorFlow/PyTorch/Keras

RL libraries (Stable Baselines, Ray RL

Independent & collaborative research

Strong communication skills

Educación

PhD or Master's degree in Computer Science/AI/ML

Herramientas

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Keras

Stable Baselines

Ray RLlib

Descripción del empleo

Our client is seeking an accomplished Senior AI/ML Researcher with a specialization in Reinforcement Learning (RL) to join their advanced research division. This role is pivotal in driving innovation and developing next-generation AI capabilities. You will conduct pioneering research, design novel algorithms, and contribute to the scientific community in the exciting field of RL. The position is based in the bustling economic hub of Sandton, Gauteng , offering a stimulating environment to collaborate with leading experts. The hybrid work model provides flexibility, blending focused independent research with essential team collaboration, fostering a productive and innovative atmosphere in Sandton, Gauteng .

About the Role

Our client is seeking an accomplished Senior AI/ML Researcher with a specialization in Reinforcement Learning (RL) to join their advanced research division. This role is pivotal in driving innovation and developing next-generation AI capabilities. You will conduct pioneering research, design novel algorithms, and contribute to the scientific community in the exciting field of RL. The position is based in the bustling economic hub of Sandton, Gauteng , offering a stimulating environment to collaborate with leading experts. The hybrid work model provides flexibility, blending focused independent research with essential team collaboration, fostering a productive and innovative atmosphere in Sandton, Gauteng .

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct cutting-edge research in reinforcement learning, deep reinforcement learning, and related areas.
• Design, implement, and evaluate novel RL algorithms for complex decision-making problems.
• Develop and train RL agents for applications in areas such as robotics, game playing, and autonomous systems.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to translate research prototypes into practical applications.
• Publish research findings in top-tier AI conferences and journals (e.g., NeurIPS, ICML, ICLR).
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in RL and the broader AI/ML landscape.
• Mentor junior researchers and interns, fostering a culture of scientific excellence.
• Contribute to the strategic direction of AI research initiatives.
• Develop benchmarks and evaluation methodologies for RL algorithms.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, or a related quantitative field.
• Proven track record of research excellence in reinforcement learning, demonstrated through publications in leading venues.
• Strong theoretical and practical understanding of RL algorithms (e.g., Q-learning, Policy Gradients, Actor-Critic methods).
• Proficiency in Python and deep learning libraries such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, or Keras.
• Experience with RL libraries (e.g., Stable Baselines, Ray RLlib) is a plus.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to articulate complex research ideas.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a research team in Sandton, Gauteng .
• Experience with distributed systems and high-performance computing is advantageous.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive health insurance, and a generous research and development budget. Employees benefit from ample paid time off, significant opportunities for professional growth, including conference attendance and further education. This role in Sandton, Gauteng provides a unique platform to conduct impactful research at the forefront of AI. The hybrid work arrangement supports a healthy work-life balance, allowing for both deep focus and collaborative synergy.