AI Research Scientist; Tenure-Track

Overview

Stony Brook University Libraries invites applications for the newly created position of AI Research Scientist. The AI Research Scientist will work closely with the Director of AI to conduct cutting-edge research in artificial intelligence and machine learning, with a focus on applications in library and information science. The role will design and implement novel AI algorithms and models to enhance and expand the boundaries of library services, improving information retrieval and discovery, digital collections stewardship, and support data-driven decision making.

The research scientist will explore unconventional and forward-thinking applications of AI that challenge traditional library paradigms. They will collaborate with library staff, faculty, and researchers across campus to identify research opportunities, secure funding, and disseminate findings through publications and scholarly activities.

The AI Research Scientist will support the University Libraries’ expanding role in AI by developing AI services, tools and collaborations across campus. The role will contribute to the development of the AI Lab, which serves faculty, researchers, and library staff. They will help build AI capacity within the Libraries and provide research support to the university community. While the primary focus is on natural language processing (NLP), the AI Research Scientist should be open to working with other AI domains such as computer vision and audio/video analysis.

This position is among the first of its kind in academic libraries nationwide and offers a unique opportunity to apply advanced AI research in support of a diverse and interdisciplinary academic community.

The successful candidate will have a broad perspective on different disciplines in a university setting and a passion for higher education and its mission. They should be comfortable working in a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment and be able to effectively communicate technical concepts to diverse audiences.

• Research and Development:
  Conduct cutting-edge research in AI and machine learning, with a focus on applications in library and information science.
• Design and implement novel AI algorithms and models to enhance library services, improve information retrieval and discovery, and support data-driven decision making.
• Collaborate with library staff, faculty, and researchers across campus to identify research opportunities, promote AI in research, and secure funding.
• Disseminate research findings through publications and presentations at conferences and workshops.

• Contribute to the development of the AI Lab, which serves faculty, researchers, and library staff.
• Provide technical expertise and support for AI-based research projects in the lab.
• Help build AI capacity and provide research support to the university community.

• Participate in education and outreach activities to raise awareness about AI and its applications in library and information science.
• Contribute to the development of AI literacy programs for the university community.

• Stay current with the latest developments in AI and machine learning through attending conferences, workshops, and training programs.
• Actively participate in campus committees as well as professional organizations at the national and/or international level to contribute to the advancement of the field.
• Mentor and train students, faculty and staff researchers in AI and machine learning.

Master's degree (foreign equivalent or higher) in information science, computer science or related field with a focus on AI or machine learning applications. One year of hands-on experience in AI/ML deployment. Ability to work in the United States without sponsorship.

PhD or doctorate in a relevant field (or foreign equivalent). Demonstrated record of publications in top-tier journals or conferences in areas of large language models, machine learning, or natural language processing, including impactful interdisciplinary or cross-disciplinary applications of AI. Experience with AI/ML frameworks (e.g., Tensor Flow, PyTorch, or scikit-learn) and model lifecycle tools (e.g., MLflow, Hugging Face). Experience with developing agentic AI solutions to complex problems.

Experience with data science, librarianship, or information science research. Experience with grant writing and securing research funding. Experience designing and delivering education content (e.g., workshops, lectures, tutorials) related to AI/ML research. Broad perspective on and/or experience collaborating within the different disciplines in a university setting, including the arts, humanities, social sciences, business, health sciences, and STEM fields.

The University Libraries are an essential partner in Stony Brook University’s mission of global leadership in research, discovery, and learning, serving as a hub of…