Senior Research Scientist - Adversarial Machine Learning

Carnegie Mellon University - Pittsburgh, PA

Part-time,Full-time - Senior

Pittsburgh, PA

Educational Services

About the position

At the SEI AI Division, we conduct research in applied artificial intelligence and the engineering questions related to the practical design and implementation of AI technologies and systems. We currently lead a community-wide movement to mature the discipline of AI Engineering for Defense and National Security. As our government customers adopt AI and machine learning to provide leap-ahead mission capabilities, we build real-world, mission-scale AI capabilities through solving practical engineering problems. Our focus is to discover and define the processes, practices, and tools to support operationalizing AI for robust, secure, scalable, and human-centered mission capabilities. We prepare our customers to be ready for the unique challenges of adopting, deploying, using, and maintaining AI capabilities, while also identifying and investigating emerging AI and AI-adjacent technologies that are rapidly transforming the technology landscape. As a Senior Machine Learning Research Scientist, you will specialize in conducting adversarial machine learning (AML) research. The AML Lab within the SEI's AI Division focuses on improving the security and robustness of AI systems. As part of the world-class research community at Carnegie Mellon University, the AML Lab conducts and applies cutting-edge research to protect AI systems from adversaries who aim to manipulate the system to learn, do, or reveal something it isn't supposed to. The AML Lab consists of machine learning research scientists, machine learning engineers, and software developers who work together to solve problems in the following areas: AI/ML Algorithm Attack Research, AI/ML Algorithm Defense Research, and Applied AML. Your day-to-day research tasks will include identifying and investigating emerging AI and AI-adjacent technologies, performing and publishing impactful original research in the field of adversarial machine learning, adapting and applying existing research in the field to solve real-world problems, and transitioning and providing guidance on AI capabilities to government sponsors.

Responsibilities

• Conduct and lead novel research in applied machine learning and artificial intelligence.
• Work with and lead interdisciplinary teams to turn research results into prototype operational capabilities for government customers and stakeholders.
• Plan, develop, and carry out an overall research strategy, influencing the national research agenda regarding future technology.
• Participate on teams of software developers, researchers, designers, and technical leads.
• Build relationships and collaborate with researchers, government customers, and other stakeholders to understand challenges, needs, possible solutions, and research directions.
• Mentor and teach others, participating in design sessions, and sharing insights across the SEI AI Division.

Requirements

• A bachelor's degree in computer science, statistics, machine learning, electrical engineering, or related discipline with ten (10) years of experience; OR MS in the same fields with eight (8) years of experience; OR PhD in with five (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 previous work to build upon.
• Ability to work with leadership to plan, develop, and deliver an overall research strategy.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to convey complex technical ideas in layperson's terms.
• Proficiency in writing funding proposals or pitching ideas for new research projects.
• Ample experience with publishing written or technical artifacts showcasing your work.
• Strong collaboration skills for working with colleagues and sponsors.
• Willingness to guide and mentor junior team members.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunities for professional development and growth.
• Access to cutting-edge research and technology.
• Collaborative work environment with a focus on innovation.