AI Research Scientist Jobs

Experts who push the boundaries of AI through cutting-edge research and experimentation. A role at the heart of technological innovation.

Open roles
3
Hiring companies
1

AI Research Scientists are the driving force behind the development of new AI technologies. They work on fundamental research, developing algorithms and models that can solve complex problems. These roles are typically found in universities, research institutions, and tech companies with a strong focus on AI, such as scaleups and the larger consultancies. The work is highly collaborative, often involving interdisciplinary teams and cutting-edge computational resources.

What the role does

Inside the role of an AI Research Scientist

A typical week is a mix of theoretical research, experimentation, and collaboration with other experts.

  1. 01
    Conduct literature reviews to stay updated on the latest research.
  2. 02
    Design and implement experiments to test new algorithms.
  3. 03
    Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate findings.
  4. 04
    Write and publish research papers or technical reports.
  5. 05
    Attend conferences and workshops to share and learn from the community.
Skills & tools

What hiring managers ask for

% of 1 listings posted in the last 12 months that mention each skill, extracted from job descriptions.

Python
100%
AI Safety
100%
Large Language Models
100%
Research
100%
Machine Learning
100%
Data Science
100%
Natural Language Processing
100%
Cybersecurity
100%
CBRN
100%
Academic Publishing
100%
Career ladder

From Junior to Principal

A typical UK progression for ai research scientists. Years are guidance — strong people move faster, and many senior folks sidestep into research, product or management.

  1. Level 1

    Junior Research Scientist

    0–2 yrs

    Assist in research projects, perform data analysis, and contribute to experimental design.

  2. Level 2

    Research Scientist

    2–5 yrs

    Lead specific research projects, develop new algorithms, and mentor junior team members.

  3. Level 3

    Senior Research Scientist

    5–10 yrs

    Oversee multiple research initiatives, publish significant findings, and influence the direction of the field.

  4. Level 4

    Principal Research Scientist

    10+ yrs

    Drive strategic research initiatives, collaborate with leading institutions, and shape the future of AI.

Pathway

How to become a AI Research Scientist

There's no single route, but most people follow some version of these steps.

  1. 1

    Academic Foundation

    Complete a PhD in AI, machine learning, or a related field to build a strong theoretical foundation.

  2. 2

    Early Research Experience

    Gain practical experience through internships or postdoctoral positions in research labs or tech companies.

  3. 3

    Publishing and Networking

    Publish research papers in top-tier journals and conferences, and build a network of collaborators.

  4. 4

    Leading Projects

    Take on leadership roles in research projects, managing teams and budgets.

  5. 5

    Strategic Influence

    Influence the strategic direction of research programs and contribute to the broader AI community.

Live jobs

3 live roles

Faculty AI logo

Principal Research Scientist - AI Safety

The Principal Research Scientist for AI Safety will lead Faculty's research team, focusing on large language models and safety-critical AI systems. Responsibilities include setting the research agenda, overseeing projects, publishing findings, and mentoring a growing team. The role involves collaborating on high-risk evaluations and positioning Faculty as a thought leader in AI safety.

Faculty AI London, United Kingdom
Hybrid Permanent Clearance Required
Faculty AI logo

Senior Research Scientist - AI Safety

Why Faculty?We established Faculty in 2014 because we thought that AI would be the most important technology of our time. Since then, we’ve worked with over 350 global customers to transform their performance through human-centric AI. You can read about...

Faculty AI London, United Kingdom
Hybrid Permanent

AI Safety Research Scientist

This role involves leading the research and development of trustworthy AI systems, focusing on safety, robustness, and efficiency. You will contribute to the Online Safety Research Roadmap, design and evaluate solution architectures, and conduct hands-on experiments in collaboration with a team of experts.

MicroTech Consulting Helsinki, United Kingdom €82,612 – €86,960 pa
On-site Permanent
Hiring locations

Where this role is hiring

The locations with the most live listings for this role today.

FAQs

Common questions

  • A PhD in AI, machine learning, or a related field is typically required, along with a strong publication record.

  • Key skills include strong mathematical and programming abilities, a deep understanding of AI algorithms, and the ability to conduct independent research.

  • AI Research Scientists often work in academic settings, research institutions, or tech companies, collaborating with interdisciplinary teams and using advanced computational resources.

  • Salary ranges can vary widely based on experience and location. For more detailed information, see the salary section on this page.

Hiring ai research scientists?

Post your role in 90 seconds and reach the specialist audience that already reads this page.