Research Scientist in AI

Overview:The FAIR Data Innovations Hub (https://fairdataihub.org) 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.Essential Duties & Responsibilities:Conduct original research in AI and related fields, including developing algorithms and analyzing resultsDevelop, validate, and apply AI-based approaches to extract knowledge from scientific dataWork with multi-modal sources of data at scale - including text, tables, and imagesCreate and publish open-source high-quality code and reproducible resultsServe as an AI domain expert by articulating emerging approaches and methodologies to team membersWrite and publish novel developments and findings in scientific JournalsPresent at scientific conferencesContribute to grant applications to fund novel ideasRequired Qualifications: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/MLProficiency in Python programming (including libraries such as Pandas, Matplotlib, Scikit-learn)Experience designing, training, and evaluating deep learning models (e.g., with PyTorch, TensorFlow), 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, LangChain, DSPy), including fine-tuning, retrieval/embedding pipelines, or systematic evaluation beyond prompt engineeringStrong foundation in statistics (e.g., experimental design, Bayesian and frequentist inference, uncertainty quantification) and applicable methods to validate developed methodologiesProven track record in relevant domains backed by scientific publications and/or conference presentationsAbility to continuously learn and acquire new knowledge and skills Ability to optimally communicate technical work to a wide and diverse audiencePreferred Additional Qualifications:Experience in writing scientific manuscriptsExperience with grant writingProficiency with Git or other versioning toolsBackground in biomedical research or related field Experience with retinal imaging dataFamiliarity with cloud solutions (ex., Azure, AWS) Expected starting date: ~09/15/2026 (flexible)Remote, In-person (San Diego, CA), or Hybrid as preferred by the candidateSalary: $90-140k/year depending on experience and skillsBenefits:Paid time off - cap of 120 hrsMedical, dental, and vision insurance (covered by the employer at 100% for the employee and 80% for dependents)Aflac coverageLife insuranceShort- and long-term disability insurance Savings plan (401k - 10% employer contribution after 1 year of employment)