Senior Machine Learning Research Scientist - Secure AI Lab

Carnegie Mellon University•Pittsburgh, PA

19h•Onsite

About The Position

The Senior Machine Learning Research Scientist will conduct research into vulnerabilities in AI and machine learning algorithms and develop ways to secure AI systems against those vulnerabilities. The Secure AI Lab, part of Carnegie Mellon University's SEI AI Division, works to improve the security and robustness of AI systems and protect them from adversaries seeking to manipulate what they learn, do, or reveal. The role involves applied research in counter-AI, defenses for AI and machine learning algorithms, and adversarial machine learning. The scientist will investigate emerging AI technologies; conduct and publish original research; apply existing research to real-world challenges; and transition AI capabilities and provide guidance to government sponsors. They will also help turn research results into prototype operational capabilities, contribute to research strategy, collaborate with technical and government stakeholders, and mentor colleagues. The position is based at an SEI facility in Arlington, Virginia, or Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and requires onsite work five days per week. Travel of up to 25% is expected. The role requires the ability to obtain and maintain an active Department of War security clearance.

Requirements

A bachelor's degree in computer science, statistics, machine learning, electrical engineering, or a related discipline and 10 years of experience; or a master's degree in one of these fields and 8 years of experience; or a Ph.D. and 5 years of experience.
Comprehensive knowledge of machine learning.
A track record of conducting research and applying scientific methods to solve difficult problems.
Experience leading research projects in novel areas with limited prior work to build upon.
Ability to work with leadership to plan, develop, and deliver an overall research strategy.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to explain complex technical ideas in layperson's terms.
Proficiency in writing funding proposals or pitching ideas for new research projects.
Substantial experience publishing written or technical artifacts showcasing one's work.
Strong collaboration skills for working with colleagues and sponsors.
Willingness to guide and mentor junior team members.
Willingness to work onsite at an SEI facility five days per week.
Ability to obtain and maintain an active Department of War security clearance.
Willingness to travel up to 25% of the time.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience in adversarial machine learning.

Responsibilities

Conduct and lead novel research in applied machine learning and artificial intelligence, especially research into vulnerabilities in AI and machine learning algorithms and ways to secure against them.
Investigate emerging AI and AI-adjacent technologies.
Publish impactful original research and apply existing research to real-world problems.
Work with and lead interdisciplinary teams to turn research results into prototype operational capabilities for government customers and stakeholders.
Transition AI capabilities to government sponsors and provide them with guidance.
Work with leadership and colleagues to plan, develop, and carry out research strategy and influence the national research agenda.
Collaborate with software developers, researchers, designers, technical leads, government customers, and other stakeholders to understand challenges, needs, solutions, and research directions.
Mentor and teach others, participate in design sessions, and share knowledge across the SEI AI Division.