Senior AI Research Scientist - Computer Vision

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health, dental, vision insurance

Retirement savings plan

Professional development

Hybrid work arrangement

Generous leave

Job summary

Placements24 in Pietermaritzburg is seeking a Senior AI Research Scientist to drive research initiatives in computer vision and deep learning. You will translate theory into deployable AI solutions and mentor junior researchers in a collaborative, rigorous environment.

The role emphasizes publishing findings, presenting at conferences, and steering AI research directions within the organization. A hybrid work setup in KwaZulu-Natal supports work-life balance and developer autonomy.

Qualifications

• PhD or Master’s in CS/AI/ML or related quantitative field.
• Minimum 5 years of hands-on AI research in computer vision.
• Strong Python and scientific computing library experience.

Responsibilities

• Lead research projects on advanced computer vision models (detection, segmentation, recognition).
• Design, implement, and evaluate deep learning architectures (TF, PyTorch, Keras).
• Process large-scale datasets and ensure data quality for training and validation.

Skills

Python programming

NumPy

SciPy

Critical thinking

Communication

Education

PhD or Master’s in CS/AI/ML

Tools

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Keras

NumPy

SciPy

AWS/GCP/Azure

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering firm at the forefront of AI innovation, is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Senior AI Research Scientist to join their dynamic team in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal . This role is integral to advancing our capabilities in cutting-edge artificial intelligence, particularly within the realm of computer vision and deep learning. You will be instrumental in driving research initiatives, developing novel algorithms, and translating complex theoretical concepts into practical, deployable AI solutions. The ideal candidate possesses a profound understanding of machine learning principles, a passion for innovation, and a proven track record of delivering impactful results in a research-oriented environment. We foster a collaborative atmosphere where creativity and scientific rigor are paramount, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in AI.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and contribute to research projects focused on developing advanced computer vision models, including object detection, image segmentation, and facial recognition.
• Design, implement, and evaluate deep learning architectures using frameworks such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, and Keras.
• Process and analyze large-scale datasets, ensuring data quality and integrity for model training and validation.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to integrate AI models into production systems and ensure seamless deployment.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in AI, machine learning, and computer vision through literature review and conference attendance.
• Mentor junior researchers and contribute to the team's knowledge sharing and skill development.
• Publish research findings in reputable journals and present work at international conferences.
• Contribute to the strategic direction of AI research within the organization.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 5 years of hands-on research experience in AI, with a strong emphasis on computer vision.
• Proficiency in Python programming and experience with scientific computing libraries (e.g., NumPy, SciPy).
• Demonstrated expertise in deep learning frameworks (TensorFlow, PyTorch).
• Solid understanding of statistical modeling, optimization techniques, and algorithm design.
• Experience with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) for AI model development and deployment is a plus.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to articulate complex technical concepts to diverse audiences.
• Proven ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative research team.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive compensation package, including a generous base salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Employees enjoy comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, along with a robust retirement savings plan.
• We provide ample opportunities for professional development, including access to cutting-edge training programs, conferences, and workshops.
• A flexible work environment, including hybrid work arrangements, is supported to promote work-life balance.
• Additionally, employees benefit from generous paid time off and a supportive, innovative, and intellectually stimulating work culture in Pietermaritzburg .