Research Manager (AI)

TL;DR

Research Manager (AI): Leading a team of researchers focused on post-training foundation models to align them with specific tasks and performance goals with an accent on reinforcement learning and model alignment. Focus on developing cutting-edge algorithms, managing the research roadmap, and bridging the gap between academic research and commercial delivery.

Location: Hybrid; must be based in Cologne, London, or Munich

Company

A global AI research company building intelligent solutions for complex business problems via a Language AI platform.

What you will do

• Lead a high-performing team of research scientists, managing individual development and a culture of constructive feedback.
• Own the research roadmap for Reinforcement Learning, balancing product commitments with long-term research goals.
• Define strategic goals and success metrics in collaboration with cross-functional stakeholders.
• Serve as the primary technical interface between the Task Adaptation team and infrastructure/product research functions.
• Identify and recruit top-tier research talent to expand the team.

Requirements

• PhD in Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, or equivalent research depth in machine learning.
• Strong expertise in deep learning and large-scale model training, specifically LLM post-training.
• Proven experience leading teams of researchers or ML engineers with a track record of delivery.
• Ability to operate across the full model development lifecycle and understand compute constraints.
• Excellent communication skills to translate complex research into clear goals for stakeholders.

Culture & Benefits

• Hybrid work schedule with office attendance twice a week.
• Ownership through Virtual Shares linked to company growth.
• 30 days of annual leave plus mental health resources.
• Monthly full-day "Hack Fridays" for personal creative projects.
• Diverse, international environment with colleagues from over 90 nationalities.