VP, Research

About the role

Scale AI is seeking a VP of Research to lead its machine learning research function. This leadership position involves shaping the technical direction of ML research, translating scientific advancements into production-ready solutions, and collaborating with various teams to define the future of AI. The role focuses on expanding frontier AI capabilities and developing safeguards for responsible deployment.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Lead the ML Research department, overseeing delivery, quality, performance, and roadmap execution.
• Build and expand a high-performing global team, emphasizing individual initiative and ML expertise.
• Partner with Fortune 100 clients and the go-to-market team to convert business needs into scalable technical solutions.
• Collaborate with engineering, product, and delivery teams across Scale to drive advanced research.
• Define the long-term vision and organizational structure for the ML Research team, aligning with business growth and product evolution.
• Manage and mentor senior ML Research leaders, fostering a culture of accountability, speed, and results.
• Make informed decisions on technical and business trade-offs, supported by financial and operational understanding.
• Represent ML Research in cross-functional planning for headcount, budget, and strategic initiatives.

Requirements

• Proven history of leading ML Research teams in fast-growing environments, preferably in ML, infrastructure, or complex systems.
• Experience scaling research organizations across different regions and structuring teams effectively.
• Ability to act with urgency and clarity, translating ambiguous situations into clear execution plans for teams.
• Extensive experience collaborating with sales, delivery, and customer success teams.
• Comfortable operating at both detailed and executive levels, knowing when to lead directly and when to empower others.
• Demonstrates credibility and curiosity in core technical areas such as product engineering, infrastructure, or AI agent systems.

Practical notes

Compensation packages include base salary, equity, and benefits such as health, dental, vision, retirement, a learning and development stipend, and generous PTO. A 90-day waiting period applies before re-applying for the same role.