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Machine Learning Research Scientist information

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$57.2K

$147.4K

$197.1K

How much do machine learning research scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for machine learning research scientist in Washington, DC is $147,370.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $121,800.00 and $195,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a machine learning research scientist?

To thrive as a Machine Learning Research Scientist, you need a strong background in mathematics, statistics, programming (typically Python or similar), and experience with machine learning frameworks, usually supported by an advanced degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with tools such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, Scikit-learn, and proficiency in data handling and cloud platforms is highly valued, alongside certifications like Google Cloud ML Engineer as a plus. Innovative thinking, strong communication, and effective problem-solving skills help set exceptional researchers apart. Mastery of both technical and soft skills is essential for developing impactful models, collaborating across multidisciplinary teams, and staying ahead in this fast-evolving field.

What does a machine learning research scientist do?

As a Machine Learning Research Scientist, your typical projects may include developing novel algorithms, conducting experiments on large datasets, implementing and tuning models, and publishing research findings. Your daily responsibilities often involve coding, data analysis, reading the latest literature, collaborating with engineers and product teams, and participating in internal discussions about research direction. You may also mentor junior researchers, contribute to open-source projects, and present results at conferences or internal meetings. This role offers a dynamic work environment where continuous learning and innovative problem-solving are highly encouraged.

What is a machine learning research scientist?

A Machine Learning Research Scientist develops new algorithms and models to advance the field of artificial intelligence. They conduct experiments, analyze data, and publish research to push the boundaries of machine learning theory and applications. Their work often involves designing novel architectures, optimizing existing models, and collaborating with engineers to bring research into production. This role typically requires a deep understanding of mathematics, statistics, and programming, along with experience in areas like deep learning, reinforcement learning, or probabilistic modeling.

What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Learning Research Scientist jobs in Washington, DC? The most popular types of Machine Learning Research Scientist jobs in Washington, DC are:
What are popular job titles related to Machine Learning Research Scientist jobs in Washington, DC? For Machine Learning Research Scientist jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Machine Learning Research Scientist jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Machine Learning Research Scientist jobs in Washington, DC are:
Machine Learning Research Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Learning Research Scientist job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,370 per year, or $70.9 per hour.

Senior Machine Learning Research Scientist - Secure AI Lab

Carnegie Mellon University

Arlington, VA • On-site

$113K - $144K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Carnegie Mellon University rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

67th of 616 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Job Summary:
Carnegie Mellon University is a leading institution in research and education, and they are seeking a Senior Machine Learning Research Scientist for their Secure AI Lab. The role involves conducting research on vulnerabilities of AI and ML algorithms and developing solutions to secure these systems against adversaries.
Responsibilities:
• Identifying and investigating emerging AI and AI-adjacent technologies.
• Performing and publishing impactful original research in the field of AI and ML algorithm vulnerabilities and securing against those vulnerabilities.
• Adapting and applying existing research in the field to solve real-world problems.
• Transitioning and providing guidance on AI capabilities to government sponsors.
• Hands-on research: You'll conduct and lead novel research in applied machine learning and artificial intelligence.
• Solution development: You'll work with and lead interdisciplinary teams to turn research results into prototype operational capabilities for government customers and stakeholders.
• Strategy: You'll work with the leadership team and colleagues to plan, develop, and carry out an overall research strategy, and to influence the national research agenda regarding future technology.
• Collaboration: You'll actively participate on teams of software developers, researchers, designers, and technical leads. You'll build relationships and collaborate with researchers, government customers, and other stakeholders to understand challenges, needs, possible solutions, and research directions.
• Mentoring: You'll contribute to improving the overall technical capabilities of the Division by mentoring and teaching others, participating in design (software and otherwise) sessions, and sharing insights and wisdom across the SEI AI Division.
Qualifications:
Required:
• A bachelor’s degree in computer science, statistics, machine learning, electrical engineering, or related discipline with ten (10) years of experience; OR MS in the same fields with eight (8) years of experience; OR PhD with five (5) years of experience
• Willingness to work onsite at an SEI facility 5 days per week.
• Be able to obtain and maintain an active Department of War security clearance.
• Willing to travel up to 25% of the time to locations outside of your home location. Travel sites include SEI offices in Pittsburgh and Washington, D.C., sponsor sites, and conferences.
• Comprehensive knowledge of machine learning; previous experience in adversarial machine learning preferred but not required
• A track record of conducting research and applying scientific methods to solve difficult problems
• Experience leading research projects in novel areas with limited previous work to build upon
• Ability to work with leadership to plan, develop, and deliver an overall research strategy
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to convey complex technical ideas in a layperson’s terms
• Proficiency in writing funding proposals or pitching ideas for new research projects
• Ample experience with publishing written or technical artifacts showcasing your work
• Strong collaboration skills for working with colleagues and sponsors
• Willingness to guide and mentor junior team members
Preferred:
• Previous experience in adversarial machine learning
Company:
Carnegie Mellon University is a research university offering programs and research across engineering, science, arts, and business. Founded in 1900, the company is headquartered in Pittsburgh, USA, with a team of 5001-10000 employees. The company is currently Late Stage.

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