Temporary Research Scientist

JOB TITLE

Temporary Research Scientist

LOCATION

Worcester

DEPARTMENT NAME

Data Science & AI - JM

DIVISION NAME

Worcester Polytechnic Institute - WPI

JOB DESCRIPTION SUMMARY

The Data Science Program at Worcester Polytechnic Institute invites applications for a part-time temporary Research Scientist, for a three-month appointment, working 20 hours per week.

The position will focus on artificial intelligence, AI safety, and the application of data-driven methods to combat illegal wildlife trade. The successful candidate will contribute to interdisciplinary research that applies machine learning, large language models (LLMs), and advanced data analytics to address conservation challenges and evaluate AI system safety and robustness.

The Research Scientist will conduct research on illegal wildlife trade using AI and data-driven approaches, develop and assess AI safety techniques including red teaming, adversarial testing, and robustness evaluation of LLMs, and contribute to scientific publications, grant proposals, and technical reports. The successful candidate will collaborate closely with faculty members and graduate students on ongoing research projects.

We are especially interested in applicants with strong research experience in AI, machine learning, and LLM evaluation, as well as an interest in applying these technologies to real-world societal challenges. Experience in AI safety, trustworthiness, responsible AI, cybersecurity, conservation science, or related domains is highly desirable.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Minimum Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Data Science, Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, or a closely related field.
• Strong research experience in machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing, or large language models.
• Experience designing and conducting empirical research studies involving AI systems.
• Programming proficiency in Python and modern AI/ML frameworks (e.g., PyTorch, TensorFlow, Hugging Face).
• Demonstrated ability to analyze complex datasets and develop data-driven solutions.
• Record of peer-reviewed publications in AI, machine learning, data science, cybersecurity, computational social science, or related fields.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with AI safety research, including red teaming, adversarial machine learning, model evaluation, robustness testing, or alignment methods.
• Experience working with large language models and generative AI systems.
• Experience applying AI or data science methods to conservation, wildlife protection, illicit trade detection, cybersecurity, or other societal-impact domains.
• Interest in developing innovative AI solutions for real-world policy and societal challenges.

To Apply

Please include:

• A current CV/resume.
• Two representative publications or writing samples relevant to the position.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Pay rate: $25 per hour depending on experience.

FLSA STATUS

United States of America (Non-Exempt)

WPI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability. It seeks individuals from all backgrounds and experiences who will contribute to a culture of creativity, collaboration, inclusion, problem solving, innovation, high performance, and change making. It is committed to maintaining a campus environment free of harassment and discrimination.