Upstart · 1 day ago
Research Scientist
Upstart is the leading AI lending marketplace partnering with banks and credit unions to expand access to affordable credit. As a Research Scientist, you will contribute to the development and deployment of business-critical models, optimizing marketing strategies and underwriting processes.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)AutomotiveConsumer LendingCreditFinancial ServicesFinTechLendingMachine LearningPersonal Finance
Responsibilities
Research and develop new machine learning models to enhance the accuracy of predictions in borrower risk, marketing conversions, or underwriting processes
Design, prototype, and deploy models to production, ensuring robust and scalable implementations
Collaborate cross-functionally with engineers, product managers, and marketing specialists to experiment with and optimize models for business outcomes
Evaluate the performance of models, interpret their impact on business metrics, and present actionable insights to stakeholders
Continuously explore novel algorithms and methodologies to keep Upstart’s ML systems at the cutting edge of technology
Mentor junior team members and contribute to the development of a high-quality, production-ready codebase
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in a scientific or quantitative discipline (e.g., Math, Physics, Computer Science, Statistics, Economics, Operations Research)
2+ years of experience in Machine Learning or a similar field
Proficiency in Python or other programming languages
Strong understanding of statistical, probability, and machine learning theory
Full-stack expertise in the modeling process from ideation to production, OR deep expertise in either statistical modeling or machine learning
Ability to break down complex tasks into smaller steps and make the right tradeoffs to deliver projects on time
Ability to communicate technical concepts effectively to non-technical stakeholders
Strong sense of intellectual curiosity, humility, and teamwork
Preferred
Master's degree or PhD in a quantitative discipline (e.g., Math, Physics, Economics, Computer Science, Statistics, Operations Research)
Deep expertise in Python and experience with machine learning frameworks
Experience leading or mentoring junior members in a technical team
Proficiency in building and deploying machine learning pipelines and engineering architecture
Strong critical thinking skills and ability to develop testable hypotheses
Proven ability to meet high standards in terms of quality and velocity with minimal direction
Benefits
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage with Health Savings Account contributions from Upstart
Generous 401(k) plan with Upstart matching $2 for every $1 contributed, up to $15,000 per year
Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)
Life and disability insurance
Generous holiday, vacation, sick and safety leave
Supportive parental, family care, and military leave programs
Annual wellness, technology & ergonomic reimbursement programs
Social activities including team events and onsites, all-company updates, employee resource groups (ERGs), and other interest groups such as book clubs, fitness, investing, and volunteering
Catered lunches + snacks & drinks when working in offices
Company
Upstart
Upstart (NASDAQ: UPST) is a leading AI lending marketplace partnering with banks and credit unions to expand access to affordable credit.
H1B Sponsorship
Upstart has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships. Please note that this does not
guarantee sponsorship for this specific role. Below presents additional info for your
reference. (Data Powered by US Department of Labor)
Distribution of Different Job Fields Receiving Sponsorship
Represents job field similar to this job
Trends of Total Sponsorships
2025 (68)
2024 (67)
2023 (85)
2022 (85)
2021 (42)
2020 (15)
Funding
Current Stage
Public CompanyTotal Funding
$3.36BKey Investors
CastlelakeProgressiveRakuten
2025-11-06Post Ipo Debt· $1.5B
2025-09-05Post Ipo Debt· $320M
2025-08-12Post Ipo Debt· $600M
Recent News
Business Wire
2026-01-22
The Motley Fool
2026-01-03
The Motley Fool
2026-01-01
Company data provided by crunchbase