Senior AI Research Scientist - Reinforcement Learning

Placements24; Centurion; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Excellent benefits package

Continuous learning

State-of-the-art computing resources

Generous leave

Research publication bonus

Conference attendance support

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior AI Research Scientist in Centurion, Gauteng to advance reinforcement learning theory and applications. You will lead ambitious projects, design novel RL algorithms, and publish results in leading venues while mentoring junior researchers.

The role demands a PhD in CS/AI/ML with RL specialization, a strong publication record, and hands-on experience with Python and DL frameworks. Collaboration across teams is essential for translating theory into practical systems.

Qualifications

• PhD in Computer Science or AI with RL specialization.
• Strong publication record in top AI/ML venues.
• Deep theoretical and practical RL knowledge.
• Proficiency in Python and DL frameworks (TensorFlow, PyTorch).
• Hands-on experience implementing RL algorithms.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Experience with simulation environments is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Conduct cutting-edge RL research on new algorithms and theory.
• Design, implement, and evaluate RL agents for complex tasks.
• Lead research projects from conception to publication.
• Publish findings in top AI conferences/journals.
• Collaborate with researchers and engineers to translate ideas.
• Mentor junior researchers and interns.
• Stay current with AI/ML advances and RL developments.
• Contribute to research strategy and direction.
• Present findings internally and externally.

Skills

Reinforcement Learning

Publications

Algorithm design

Python

PyTorch

TensorFlow

Experimentation

Communication

Education

PhD in CS/AI/ML

Tools

Python

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Job description

About the Role

A world-leading research institution based in Centurion, Gauteng is seeking an accomplished Senior AI Research Scientist to focus on Reinforcement Learning (RL). This role is dedicated to advancing the frontiers of RL theory and its practical applications in complex decision-making systems. You will lead ambitious research projects, design novel algorithms, and contribute to groundbreaking publications. The ideal candidate possesses a deep theoretical understanding of RL, combined with practical experience in implementing and evaluating RL agents. This is an exceptional opportunity to work in a collaborative, intellectually stimulating environment at the cutting edge of AI research in South Africa.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct cutting-edge research in Reinforcement Learning, exploring new algorithms, theoretical frameworks, and applications.
• Design, implement, and evaluate novel RL algorithms for complex sequential decision-making problems.
• Develop & manage research projects from conception to completion, including experimental design and data analysis.
• Publish research findings in top-tier AI conferences and journals.
• Collaborate with other researchers and engineers to translate theoretical advancements into practical solutions.
• Mentor junior researchers and interns, fostering a strong research culture.
• Stay abreast of the latest developments in AI, machine learning, and reinforcement learning.
• Contribute to the development of the research group's overall strategy and direction.
• Present research findings internally and externally.

Requirements

• PhD in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, or a closely related field with a specialization in Reinforcement Learning.
• Strong publication record in leading AI/ML conferences and journals (e.g., NeurIPS, ICML, ICLR, AAAI).
• Deep theoretical understanding of Reinforcement Learning concepts, including value-based methods, policy gradient methods, and model-based RL.
• Proficiency in Python and experience with deep learning frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch).
• Hands-on experience in implementing and experimenting with RL algorithms.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research team.
• Experience with simulation environments is a plus.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, excellent benefits package, and opportunities for continuous learning and professional growth. Researchers have access to state-of-the-art computing resources and facilities in Centurion, Gauteng. Additional benefits include generous leave, a research publication bonus, and support for attending international conferences. We foster a collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment dedicated to pushing the boundaries of AI.