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Research Scientist Computer Science Jobs in California

The Opportunity Adobe Research is looking for research scientists in Generative AI to join a world ... D. in Computer Science, AI/ML or related fields Excellent publication record in Computer Science ...

The Opportunity Adobe Research is looking for research scientists in Generative AI to join a world ... D. in Computer Science, AI/ML or related fields Excellent publication record in Computer Science ...

PhD or equivalent research experience in Computer Science, Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence, or a related field. Exceptional candidates with strong research contributions are encouraged to ...

Research Scientist

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$200K - $400K/yr

PhD or equivalent experience in ML, computer science, or a quantitative science. * Deep familiarity ... Experience leading research or contributing to open-source codebases. * Familiarity with ...

Research Scientist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$117K - $135K/yr

... social science field. * Active publishing track record with articles featured in top-tier ... Research & Analytical Expertise: * Advanced quantitative and qualitative skills * Proficiency in ...

Research Scientist/Study Director Ocular Description: We are seeking to find an accomplished Ocular Scientist with requirements of a broad knowledge of Ocular anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry to ...

$120K - $190K/yr

PhD or several years research experience in computer science, artificial intelligence, machine learning or statistics. Logistics If based in the USA or Singapore, you will be an employee of FAR.AI ...

Degree in Computer Science, Machine Learning, Electrical Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent research experience). * Strong background in large language models, deep learning, and modern ...

Showing results 41-60

Research Scientist Computer Science information

See California salary details

$49.8K

$128.4K

$171.7K

How much do research scientist computer science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for research scientist computer science in California is $128,413.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $106,100.00 and $170,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a research scientist in computer science?

To thrive as a Research Scientist in Computer Science, you need advanced knowledge of algorithms, data structures, and computational theory, typically supported by a Ph.D. or relevant graduate degree. Proficiency with programming languages (such as Python, C++, or Java), data analysis tools, and version control systems is essential, and experience with machine learning frameworks or high-performance computing can be advantageous. Critical thinking, creativity, and effective communication are vital soft skills for formulating innovative research questions and collaborating across multidisciplinary teams. These skills enable the development of pioneering solutions, clear dissemination of findings, and significant contributions to the advancement of technology.

How does a research scientist in computer science typically collaborate with other professionals on interdisciplinary projects?

Research Scientists in Computer Science often work closely with experts from diverse fields such as data science, engineering, healthcare, or social sciences, depending on the project's focus. Collaboration usually involves joint problem-solving, sharing domain-specific knowledge, and integrating different methodologies to address complex research questions. Communication skills are crucial, as scientists must translate technical concepts for non-technical stakeholders and ensure all team members are aligned on goals and deliverables. Regular meetings, shared documentation, and collaborative software tools are commonly used to facilitate effective teamwork.

What is the difference between Research Scientist Computer Science vs Data Scientist?

AspectResearch Scientist Computer ScienceData Scientist
Required CredentialsAdvanced degrees in CS or related fields, research experienceDegree in CS, statistics, or related fields; data analysis certifications
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academia, R&D departmentsCorporate offices, tech companies, analytics firms
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutions, tech companiesBusiness, finance, healthcare, tech industries
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research roles in CSData analysis and application roles

Research Scientist Computer Science focuses on advancing knowledge through research, often in academic or R&D settings, requiring strong research credentials. Data Scientist emphasizes analyzing and interpreting data to inform business decisions, typically in industry settings. While both roles require technical skills, their work environments and objectives differ significantly.

What does a research scientist in computer science do?

A Research Scientist in Computer Science explores new theories, models, and technologies to advance the field. They conduct experiments, analyze data, and publish findings in scientific journals or conferences. Their work often involves collaborating with other researchers, developing prototypes, and contributing to innovations in areas like artificial intelligence, machine learning, cybersecurity, or data science. The goal is to solve complex problems and push the boundaries of what computers and algorithms can achieve.

What are popular job titles related to Research Scientist Computer Science jobs in California?

For Research Scientist Computer Science jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Research Scientist Computer Science jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Research Scientist Computer Science jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Research Scientist Computer Science job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $128,413 per year, or $61.7 per hour.

Research Scientist

Adobe

San Francisco, CA

$120K - $238K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Adobe rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

39th of 244 rated software companies


Job description

The Opportunity

Adobe Research is looking for research scientists in Generative AI to join a world-class research team. We welcome outstanding candidates at all levels (new graduates, experienced, principal) in all related technical fields, such as Machine Learning, Deep Learning, Computer Vision, Computer Graphics, and Natural Language Processing. The related applications include image/video generation, image/video editing, image/video understanding, large language models, and multimodal foundation models.


What You'll Do

Conduct cutting-edge research and development in Generative AI

Develop and transfer novel technologies to Adobe products

Research and develop novel large-scale foundation models in Generative AI

Collaborate with world-class researchers and engineers to bring research ideas to production

Publish and present your work in world-class scientific venues in AI/ML fields

Provide technical mentorship and guidance.

Required Qualifications

Ph.D. in Computer Science, AI/ML or related fields

Excellent publication record in Computer Science, AI/ML or related fields

Excellent communication skills and a strong team player


What You'll Bring

Experience in state-of-the-art Generative AI technologies, such as diffusion models

Strong publication record in image/video generation and image/video editing

Experience on large-scale generative model training

Experience of working with large-scale datasets

Experience of working with product teams on technology transfers

About Adobe

Adobe empowers everyone to create through innovative platforms and tools that unleash creativity, productivity and personalized customer experiences. Adobe's industry-leading offerings including Adobe Acrobat Studio, Adobe Express, Adobe Firefly, Creative Cloud, Adobe Experience Platform, Adobe Experience Manager, and GenStudio enable people and businesses to turn ideas into impact, powered by AI and driven by human ingenuity.

Our 30,000+ employees worldwide are creating the future and raising the bar as we drive the next decade of growth. We're on a mission to hire the very best and believe in creating a company culture where all employees are empowered to make an impact. At Adobe, we believe that great ideas can come from anywhere in the organization. The next big idea could be yours.


Let's Adobe together

At Adobe, we believe in creating a company culture where all employees are empowered to make an impact. Learn more about Adobe life, including our values and culture, focus on people, purpose and community, Adobe for All, comprehensive benefits programs, the stories we tell, the customers we serve, and how you can help us advance our mission of empowering everyone to create.

Adobe is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based on gender, race or color, ethnicity or national origin, age, disability, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic. Learn more.

Adobe aims to make our Careers website and recruiting process accessible to any and all users. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation to navigate our website or complete the application process, email accommodations@adobe.com or call +1 408-536-3015.

AI Use Guidelines for Interviews:
Our interviews are designed to reflect your own skills and thinking. The use of AI or recording tools during live interviews is not permitted unless explicitly invited by the interviewer or approved in advance as part of a reasonable accommodation. If these tools are used inappropriately or in a way that misrepresents your work, your application may not move forward in the process.

At Adobe, we empower employees to innovate with AI - and we look for candidates eager to do the same. As part of the hiring experience, we provide clear guidance on where AI is encouraged during the process and where it's restricted during live interviews. See how we think about AI in the hiring experience.

Expected Pay Range:

Our compensation reflects the cost of labor across several U.S. geographic markets, and we pay differently based on those defined markets. The U.S. pay range for this positionis $120,700 -- $238,600 annually. Paywithin this range varies by work locationand may also depend on job-related knowledge, skills,and experience. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for the job location during the hiring process. In California, the pay range for this position is $164,800 - $238,600 In Washington, the pay range for this position is $146,300 - $211,850

At Adobe, for sales roles starting salaries are expressed as total target compensation (TTC = base + commission), and short-term incentives are in the form of sales commission plans. Non-sales roles starting salaries are expressed as base salary and short-term incentives are in the form of the Annual Incentive Plan (AIP).

In addition, certain roles may be eligible for long-term incentives in the form of a new hire equity award.

State-Specific Notices:

California:

Fair Chance Ordinances

Adobe will consider qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records for employment in accordance with state and local laws and "fair chance" ordinances.

Colorado:

Application Window Notice

If this role is open to hiring in Colorado (as listed on the job posting), the application window will remain open until at least the date and time stated above in Pacific Time, in compliance with Colorado pay transparency regulations. If this role does not have Colorado listed as a hiring location, no specific application window applies, and the posting may close at any time based on hiring needs.

Massachusetts:

Massachusetts Legal Notice

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.


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About Adobe

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Adobe for All is our vision to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) across our company and in our communities. We’re focused on creating a more diverse and inclusive workforce; unleashing the full potential of every employee; and driving meaningful impact for Adobe, our industry, and society at large. Creativity has the power to unite us and inspire us to change the world. Through a vision we call Creativity for All, we’re empowering millions of people of all ages and backgrounds to express themselves, reach their full potential, and share their diverse perspectives with the world. We’re committed to advancing the responsible use of technology and driving a positive environmental impact through sustainability and climate action. Our innovations are making a significant impact across AI ethics, security, privacy, trust and safety, accessibility, and sustainability.

Industry

Computer and computer peripheral equipment and software wholesalers

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Jose, CA, US

Year founded

1982