Toyota Research Institute · 10 hours ago
Senior Machine Learning Research Scientist
Los Altos, CA
Full-time
Hybrid
Mid, Senior Level
$200K/yr - $300K/yr
3+ years expToyota Research Institute (TRI) is on a mission to improve the quality of human life through innovative technologies. They are seeking a Senior Machine Learning Research Scientist to lead research in generative machine learning and human behavior modeling, focusing on developing AI systems that support behavior change and reduce carbon emissions.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)AutomotiveConsumer ResearchMachine LearningProduct Research
Responsibilities
Conduct machine learning research that integrates behavioral science concepts to push the boundaries of knowledge and the state of the art in Human-Centered AI
Develop and evaluate generative AI and machine learning methods for modeling and understanding human behavior
Collaborate cross-functionally with researchers in multiple fields, as well as university partners
Stay up to date on the state-of-the-art in machine learning theories, methods and tooling
Collaborate with scientists in the Carbon Neutrality Department to shape our research program and to communicate research to Toyota stakeholders
Publish research findings in academic journals and/or conferences
Contribute to technology transfer of research insights and prototypes throughout Toyota
Qualification
Required
PhD in computer science, machine learning, or a closely related field
3+ years of experience in machine learning research or related projects in an industry setting, particularly in areas related to LLM training or large-scale ML
A strong publication record in ML, NLP, deep learning, or related fields
Awareness of current machine learning research and the ability to critically evaluate emerging techniques and literature
Experience with LLM/MLLM pretraining, fine-tuning (e.g., SFT, RLHF) and agentic systems
Proficiency in Python and modern deep learning frameworks such as Pytorch or Tensorflow
Ability to work collaboratively across disciplines and functions
Ability to balance multiple projects, including short-term and those that may span several years
Strong project management skills and desire to work on cutting-edge open-ended research projects
Demonstrated ability to independently identify research opportunities, formulate well-scoped problems, and lead research projects end-to-end
Demonstrated ability to work autonomously while soliciting feedback
Strong interpersonal skills. Great teammate
Preferred
Experience with one or more of the following areas: diffusion models, uncertainty modeling, reinforcement learning, and physiological signal processing
Previous experience in human modeling (both cognitive and behavioral) with generative AI
Experience with human-centered research (e.g. computational behavioral and social science, human-computer interaction, neuro-science)
Benefits
Medical, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) eligibility
Paid time off benefits (including vacation, sick time, and parental leave)
Annual cash bonus structure
Company
Toyota Research Institute
Toyota Research Institute is an R&D enterprise with an initial focus on artificial intelligence and robotics.
201-500 employees
H1B Sponsorship
Toyota Research Institute 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 (10)
2020 (7)
Funding
Current Stage
Growth StageLeadership Team
Gill Pratt
CEO
Phillip Zackler
Chief Operating Officer and General Counsel
Recent News
2025-12-18
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