Software Engineer, Foundation Models for Science (AI/Machine Learning)

Description

The Simons Foundation’s Flatiron Institute seeks a full-time research software engineer position as part of its new initiative, Polymathic AI, Building Foundation Models for Science.  Recent advances in machine learning, including Large Language Models and diffusion-based generative models have driven significant advances in Artificial Intelligence. The Flatiron Institute seeks to leverage these ideas to develop the next generation of AI-powered scientific analysis tools, seeking more powerful and more interpretable models with broad applications to many scientific disciplines. Our group includes researchers from multiple scientific disciplines ranging from machine learning to astrophysics, biology, neuroscience, and quantum computing.  

The selected candidates will work closely with a group of computer scientists, domain scientists,  and AI experts in developing software and leveraging large AI models to solve pressing scientific challenges.  

The Flatiron Institute has computational capabilities that allow the training of large AI models. We offer an exciting multidisciplinary context for researching AI and its applications.

The Software Engineer will report to the Group Leader and is a full-time fixed-term position with a duration of one year with possibilities of renewal. This position is based on site at Simons Foundation’s offices in New York City. 

For more information about careers at the Flatiron Institute, please visit https:// www.simonsfoundation.org/flatiron/careers. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/RESPONSIBILITIES 

• Develop and train large AI models for science

• Curate large datasets pertinent to the initiative 

• Develop, implement, maintain, and support software relevant to the initiative. 

• Engage in foundation models for science research

• Collaborate with other Software Engineers, Flatiron Research Fellows, Research Analysts. 

• Lead and improve open-source software practices

Qualifications

Education 

• B.S., M.S. or Ph.D. in STEM fields such as machine learning, computer science, engineering or related technical discipline.

Experience 

• At least three years experience with software development in a research setting

• Expertise in developing and training large AI models.  

• Proficiency in Python and either PyTorch, JAX, or Tensorflow

• Experience with HPC, GPU, or code profiling is required

• Knowledge of software engineering practices for working in groups, including software development life cycles, coding standards, code review, and version control

Related Skills and Other Requirements 

• Ability to collaborate on multidisciplinary research in a collegial environment

• Ability to lead, develop, and contribute to software projects 

• Effective communication, documentation, and user-support skills

• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively 

• Technical and scientific curiosity 

• Professional communication skills

Application Instructions

Required Application Materials

• CV including publication list and/or software repositories

  • Description of previous research experience (not to exceed 2 pages, including figures).

• Up to three (3) letters of recommendation submitted confidentially by the letter via Interfolio application.

Deadline 

• Applications will be reviewed as they are received until Dec 31, 2024, and we will fill the positions on a rolling basis. Earlier applications are strongly encouraged.

Compensation and Benefits

• The full-time annual compensation range for the Software Engineer level is $120,000 - $150,000, depending on experience.

• In addition to competitive salaries, the Simons Foundation provides employees with an outstanding benefits package.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

SIMONS FOUNDATION'S DIVERSITY COMMITMENT

Many of the greatest ideas and discoveries come from a diverse mix of minds, backgrounds and experiences, and we are committed to cultivating an inclusive work environment. The Simons Foundation actively seeks a diverse applicant pool and encourages candidates of all backgrounds to apply. We provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic disposition, neurodiversity, disability, veteran status, or any other protected category under federal, state and local law.