Artificial Intelligence Reseasrcher

The AI Researchers provide the technical and analytical foundation for the work. They conduct applied research, define and refine research questions, and perform literature reviews to survey and assess existing methods and emerging approaches. They own experimental design end to end, running experiments, evaluating candidate approaches, and producing publication-quality analysis of the results. They document findings in a form usable by both technical and non-technical stakeholders, contributing to technical reports, evaluation plans, and model and agent assessments. A core part of their role is translating research outcomes into concrete implementation guidance, turning findings and recommendations into direction that the Developers and the broader team can act on. Working closely with the Data Scientists, they shape benchmark design, scoring rationale, and the interpretation of evaluation results so that measured outcomes connect back to the original research objectives.

Technologies / Skills Needed

• Python
• Jupyter notebooks
• Scientific computing libraries
• Machine learning / AI evaluation methods
• Experiment design
• Literature review tools
• Statistical analysis
• Technical writing
• Version control, such as Git
• Collaboration tools such as Jira or Confluence
• Operate effectively in an airgapped/constrained environment

** Position Requires an Active TS/SCI with a Full-Scope Polygraph Clearance**

What You’ll Love About Synergist:

• We have an actual “award-winning” culture
• We recognize that our employees are our most valuable asset, and we do everything in our power to give you the best experience every day
• We’re big believers in transparency and you’ll always have a seat at the table for big decisions and can even attend key business meetings if you want
• We offer a best-in-class benefits package that we can customize for your unique needs. Offerings include healthcare, dental, and vision coverage for you and your dependents, flexible Paid Time Off (PTO) accrual, 10% 401k employer contribution, annual education allowance, and many perks from a robust referral program, weekly catered lunches, monthly happy hours, access to company suite at Cap One Arena, financial advisory, and so much more
• We have a deep catalog (and growing!) of potential project opportunities for you to choose from, and when you’re ready for new challenges, we’ll work to make that happen

We Want to Hear From You If:

• You have a BS in Computer Science or similar technical field (4 years of relevant experience may be substituted in lieu of a BS degree)
• You have experience with Applied AI/ML Research, Experimental Design, State-of-the-Art (SOTA) Literature Reviews, Statistical Analysis
• You're familiar with conducting Model & Agentic System Capability Assessments, Evaluation Plan Development, Risk & Limitation Analysis
• You've worked with Python, Jupyter Notebooks, Scientific Computing Libraries (e.g., NumPy, Pandas, SciPy), Git Version Control
• You're comfortable with Technical Writing, Decision-Support Documentation, Executive Reporting, Jira, Confluence

Here’s What You Can Expect Out Of This Role:

• Develop evaluation methodologies and experimental designs for assessing model and agent performance, including capability, reliability, and limitation analyses.
• Conduct reviews of current state-of-the-art AI/ML evaluation methods and emerging techniques to inform approach selection.
• Define and document evaluation criteria, success metrics, and assessment rationale in partnership with the Data Scientists.
• Assess candidate models and agentic systems and produce written technical findings and recommendations.
• Author technical reports, evaluation plans, and decision-support documentation for stakeholders.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $100,000.00 - $280,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible schedule
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Professional development assistance
• Referral program
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Security clearance:

• Top Secret (Required)

Work Location: In person