Research Scientist in AI

The FAIR Data Innovations Hub ((Use the "Apply for this Job" box below).) is a division of the California Medical Innovations Institute (CalMI2), a non-profit biomedical research organization located in San Diego (CA). We are seeking a full-time Research Scientist in Artificial Intelligence (AI) to join our team, which is at the forefront of developing new tools, standards, and guidelines for managing and sharing reusable research data and other research outcomes.

The candidate will have a strong technical background in machine learning (ML) and deep learning, and broad experience in AI. In this role, you will develop AI-based approaches to extract structured information and insights from biomedical data, including using methods spanning classical ML, deep learning, and large language models (LLMs). The FAIR Data Innovations Hub provides a flexible and dynamic environment and the opportunity to make a real and visible difference in the understanding and treatment of disease.

• Conduct original research in AI and related fields, including developing algorithms and analyzing results
• Develop, validate, and apply AI-based approaches to extract knowledge from scientific data
• Work with multi-modal sources of data at scale - including text, tables, and images
• Create and publish open-source high-quality code and reproducible results
• Serve as an AI domain expert by articulating emerging approaches and methodologies to team members
• Write and publish novel developments and findings in scientific Journals
• Present at scientific conferences
• Contribute to grant applications to fund novel ideas

• Currently has, or is in the process of obtaining, a PhD in Bioinformatics, Computer Science, Mathematics, Computational Biology/Neuroscience, or related field with a strong emphasis on AI/ML
• Proficiency in Python programming (including libraries such as Pandas, Matplotlib, Scikit-learn)
• Experience designing, training, and evaluating deep learning models (e.g., with PyTorch, Tensor Flow), with a solid grasp of core ML principles and common architectures (e.g., CNNs, transformers)
• Experience with LLM models and frameworks (e.g., GPT, Llama, Lang Chain, DSPy), including fine-tuning, retrieval/embedding pipelines, or systematic evaluation beyond prompt engineering
• Strong foundation in statistics (e.g., experimental design, Bayesian and frequentist inference, uncertainty quantification) and applicable methods to validate developed methodologies
• Proven track record in relevant domains backed by scientific publications and/or conference presentations
• Ability to continuously learn and acquire new knowledge and skills
• Ability to optimally communicate technical work to a wide and diverse audience

• Experience in writing scientific manuscripts
• Experience with grant writing
• Proficiency with Git or other versioning tools
• Background in biomedical research or related field
• Experience with retinal imaging data
• Familiarity with cloud solutions (ex., Azure, AWS)

• Paid time off - cap of 120 hrs
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance (covered by the employer at 100% for the employee and 80% for dependents)
• Aflac coverage
• Life insurance
• Short- and long-term disability insurance
• Savings plan (401k - 10% employer contribution after 1 year of employment)