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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
18
Salary range
£68k – £260k
Hiring companies
11
View 18 live roles → Get an alert

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.
Salary on the board

£68k – £260k

Based on advertised midpoints across the 5 UK listings priced in pounds in the last 12 months. Base salary only.

Salary visibility
8% of listings advertise a salary — up from 0% the year before.
Skills & tools

What hiring managers ask for

% of 18 listings posted in the last 12 months that mention each skill, extracted from job descriptions.

Machine Learning
89%
PyTorch
67%
Python
61%
Deep Learning
44%
Computer Vision
33%
TensorFlow
28%
JAX
28%
Generative Models
28%
3D Computer Graphics
22%
Neural Rendering
22%
3D Reconstruction
22%
C/C++
22%
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

18 live roles

See all 18 roles →
Isomorphic Labs logo

Research Leader / Senior Scientist (Medicinal Drug Design), Cambridge, MA

Lead or contribute to drug discovery projects by integrating medicinal chemistry expertise with AI-driven platforms. Collaborate closely with machine learning teams to refine predictive models and drive programs from hit identification to candidate selection. Play a key role in shaping next-generation drug design through innovation in structure-based and fragment-based approaches, while mentoring teams and managing external research partners.

Isomorphic Labs Cambridge, United Kingdom
Hybrid Permanent
Isomorphic Labs logo

Research Leader / Senior Scientist (Computational Drug Design), Cambridge, MA

This role involves leading drug discovery programs using AI-driven computational chemistry, either as a Program Lead or Computational Chemistry Lead. You'll shape Isomorphic Labs' AI platform by integrating cutting-edge machine learning into cheminformatics workflows, guide projects from hit identification to candidate selection, and collaborate across disciplines. The position emphasizes scientific leadership, technical innovation, and mentorship within a culture focused on transforming drug discovery through AI.

Isomorphic Labs Cambridge, United Kingdom
Hybrid Permanent

Research Associate Data Scientist- Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare – Grade 7

This role involves applying AI, machine learning, and advanced analytics to improve health and care services. You will develop secure and reproducible AI pipelines, analyse complex health datasets, and collaborate with academic, NHS, industry, policy, and public partners to generate insights and support innovation.

University of Liverpool Liverpool, Northern England, United Kingdom £39 – £46 pa
Contract
See all 18 roles →
Top hirers

Companies hiring ai research scientists

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Hiring locations

Where this role is hiring

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

London

Location
12 open

Cambridge

Location
2 open

Oxford

Location
1 open
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.

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