PhD in Machine Learning, Computer Science, Robotics, or related field with strong publication history.
Deep expertise in generative modeling, world models, or vision-language(-action) models.
Proven track record of publications in top-tier conferences such as NeurIPS, ICML, ICLR, CVPR, or CoRL.
Experience with large-scale model training and contemporary deep learning infrastructures.
Ability to independently drive research projects from concept to publication.
Background in embodied AI, robotic manipulation, or sim-to-real transfer is a major plus.
Familiarity with RLHF, DPO, or preference optimization for model alignment enhances candidacy.
Responsibilities
Define and lead research in action-conditioned world models, physical AI, and generative modeling.
Design innovative architectures, training objectives, and evaluation frameworks for VLMs, VLAs, and world models.
Direct research projects aiming for publication in leading scientific journals.
Collaborate with industry partners to apply research in practical physical AI contexts.
Mentor research engineers and facilitate cross-functional collaboration to transition research into production.
Stay updated with the latest developments in the field, identifying impactful research opportunities.
Enhance Hedra's research culture and amplify its scientific reputation externally.
Benefits
Competitive compensation and equity package.
401k plan available (no match provided).
Healthcare coverage including Silver PPO Medical, Vision, and Dental.
Free lunch and snacks at the office.
Full Job Description
Responsibilities:
Define and lead research directions in action-conditioned world models, physical AI, and generative modeling for embodied systems
Design novel architectures, training objectives, and evaluation frameworks for VLMs, VLAs, and world models
Direct research efforts with the goal of publishing in top journals.
Partner with industrial collaborators to ground research in real-world physical AI use cases
Mentor research engineers and collaborate cross-functionally to move research into production
Stay at the frontier of the field - synthesizing relevant literature and identifying opportunities for impactful contributions
Contribute to Hedra's research culture and external scientific reputation
Qualifications:
PhD in Machine Learning, Computer Science, Robotics, or a related field, with publications at top ML or robotics venues
Deep expertise in generative modeling, world models, or vision-language(-action) models
Strong publication record at NeurIPS, ICML, ICLR, CVPR, CoRL, or equivalent venues
Experience with large-scale model training and modern deep learning infrastructure
Ability to independently drive research projects from ideation through publication
Background in embodied AI, robotic manipulation, or sim-to-real transfer is highly desirable
Experience with RLHF, DPO, or preference optimization for model alignment is a plus
Strong collaboration and communication skills - comfortable bridging research and applied teams
Benefits:
Competitive compensation and equity
401k (no match)
Healthcare (Silver PPO Medical, Vision, Dental)
Lunch and snacks at the office
We encourage you to apply even if you don't fully meet all the listed requirements; we value potential and diverse perspectives, and your unique skills could be a great asset to our team.