Research Engineer - Model Architectures

Zyphra is an artificial intelligence company based in San Francisco, California. The Role: As a Research Engineer - Model Architectures , you will be a core contributor to Zyphra’s AI Architecture Research Team. This will involve designing and rigorously testing novel model architectures and training methodologies, with a focus on improving core modeling capabilities (e.g., loss per flop or loss per parameter) and addressing fundamental bottlenecks in contemporary models. You will also work extremely closely with our pre-training team, who will integrate your insights into our next-generation models. What We're Looking For / Requirements: Strong research taste and intuition The ability to work through a research project from conception to execution to write-up Strong implementation and prototyping ability can take an idea from conception to experimentation extremely quickly The ability to work well and cooperate with others in a high-paced research setting Curiosity, interest, and joy in understanding intelligence. Qualifications / Additional Skills: Previous experience with long-term memory, RAG/retrieval systems, dynamic/adaptive computation, and alternative approaches to credit assignment Experience with reinforcement learning, control theory, and signal processing Generally, a joy in inventing and seriously assessing ‘crazy’ ideas, and the ability to have a unique perspective on things Understanding of modern training pipelines and the hardware requirements to design efficient architectures for GPU hardware Strong grasp of proper experimental methodology for running rigorous ablations and other hypothesis testing High proficiency with PyTorch and Python. Strong ability to jump into large pre-existing codebases and rapidly get up to speed and become productive Previously published machine learning research in well-respected venues Postgraduate degree in a scientific subject (Computer Science, EE/EECS, Math, Physics) Why Work at Zyphra: Our research methodology is to make grounded, methodical steps toward ambitious goals. Both deep research and engineering excellence are equally valued We strongly value new and crazy ideas and are very willing to bet big on new ideas We move as quickly as we can; we aim to minimize the bar to impact as low as possible We all enjoy what we do and love discussing AI Benefits and Perks: Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and FSA plans Competitive compensation and 401(k) plan Relocation and immigration support on a case-by-case basis In-office snacks and meals provided Unlimited PTO and company holidays In-person team in San Francisco with a collaborative, high-energy environment