Senior AI Research Scientist - Machine Learning

Placements24; Pietermaritzburg; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

State-of-the-art research facilities

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior AI Research Scientist in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, to lead research and development in AI and emerging technologies. You will design and deploy cutting-edge AI models, collaborate with engineers, and publish findings in top venues.

The role emphasizes research excellence, strong mathematical foundations, and ability to translate concepts into production-ready systems in a hybrid work environment.

Qualifications

• PhD or Master’s in Computer Science, AI, ML or related quantitative field.
• Proven research record in AI/ML with publications or significant project contributions.
• Strong theoretical understanding of ML, DL, statistical modelling and math concepts.
• Proficiency in Python and AI/ML libraries (TensorFlow, PyTorch, scikit-learn).
• Experience with data manipulation, feature engineering, and deployment pipelines.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical and communication skills.
• Collaborative skills and ability to explain complex concepts to diverse audiences.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research into novel ML algorithms and deep learning architectures.
• Develop, train, and evaluate state-of-the-art AI models (NLP, CV, predictive analytics).
• Design experiments to validate hypotheses and measure performance.
• Collaborate with engineering to productionize research prototypes.
• Stay current with AI/ML advancements and publish findings.
• Mentor junior researchers and share knowledge within the team.
• Analyze large datasets to identify patterns and opportunities.

Skills

PhD/Master's in CS/AI

Python

TensorFlow/PyTorch

Machine Learning

Data Analysis

Model Deployment

Communication

Research Publications

Education

PhD in Computer Science/AI

Master's in CS/AI

Tools

TensorFlow

PyTorch

scikit-learn

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in innovative AI solutions, is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Senior AI Research Scientist to join their dynamic team in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. This role is pivotal in driving forward the company's research and development initiatives in artificial intelligence and emerging technologies. You will be instrumental in conceptualizing, developing, and deploying cutting-edge AI models that address complex real-world challenges. This position offers a unique opportunity to work on impactful projects at the forefront of technological advancement, contributing to a collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment. The successful candidate will play a key role in shaping the future of AI within the organization and potentially the wider industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct in-depth research into novel machine learning algorithms and deep learning architectures.
• Develop, train, and evaluate state-of-the-art AI models for applications such as natural language processing, computer vision, and predictive analytics.
• Design and implement experimental frameworks to validate research hypotheses and measure model performance.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to translate research prototypes into production-ready AI systems.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements and trends in the AI and machine learning landscape.
• Publish research findings in top-tier academic conferences and journals.
• Mentor junior researchers and contribute to the overall knowledge sharing within the team.
• Analyze large datasets to identify patterns, insights, and opportunities for AI-driven solutions.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, or a related quantitative field.
• Proven track record of research and development in AI/ML, evidenced by publications or significant project contributions.
• Strong theoretical understanding of machine learning, deep learning, statistical modeling, and related mathematical concepts.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python and experience with AI/ML libraries (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch, scikit-learn).
• Experience with data manipulation, feature engineering, and model deployment pipelines.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong communication and collaboration abilities, with the capacity to explain complex technical concepts to diverse audiences.
• Experience working in a research-oriented environment or contributing to AI projects in a professional capacity.

Benefits

Our client values their employees and offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your professional and personal well-being. This includes a highly competitive annual salary, generous paid time off, comprehensive health and wellness programs, opportunities for professional development and continuous learning, and the chance to be part of a forward-thinking company making a significant impact.

Employees also benefit from a collaborative work environment and access to state-of-the-art research facilities.

The hybrid work model allows for a balance between in-office collaboration and remote flexibility. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive workplace culture in Pietermaritzburg.