28 Research Institutions jobs in South Africa

Research Scientist

ZipRecruiter

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Job Description

workfromhome

Job Description

We are looking for an advanced physicist to join our team to train AI models. You will measure the progress of these AI chatbots, evaluate their logic, and solve problems to improve the quality of each model.

In this role you will need to hold an expert understanding of physics- a completed or in progress Masters/PhD is but not required. Other related fields include, but are not limited to: Astrophysics, Biophysics, Electrical Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Mathematics.

Benefits:

  • This is a full-time or part-time REMOTE position
  • You’ll be able to choose which projects you want to work on
  • You can work on your own schedule
  • Projects are paid hourly starting at $40+ per hour, with bonuses on high-quality and high-volume work

Responsibilities:

  • Give AI chatbots diverse and complex physics problems and evaluate their outputs
  • Evaluate the quality produced by AI models for correctness and performance

Qualifications:

  • Fluency in English ( or bilingual level)
  • Detail-oriented
  • Proficient in mathematics, inductive/deductive reasoning, physical/temporal/ spatial reasoning
  • A current, in progress, or completed Masters and/or PhD is but not required

Note: Payment is made via PayPal. We will never ask for any money from you. PayPal will handle any currency conversions from USD. This job is only available to those in the US, UK, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand. Those located outside of these countries will not see work or assessments available on our site at this time.

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Research Scientist

Iqtalent

Posted 9 days ago

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Job Description

At Matter Labs, we believe freedom drives progress and prosperity. We don’t see ourselves as a company, but as a team aligned around a single mission: to advance personal freedom for all (see ZK Credo).

To achieve this goal, we’re building zkSync — a credibly neutral, fully open source technology stack and network on top of Ethereum, which is owned and governed by its community. We use advanced cryptography called zero-knowledge proofs to scale Ethereum infinitely without compromising on security or decentralization. With a world-class team, a community of over 1M supporters across Twitter + Discord, and hundreds of millions $ in funding, we have abundant resources to accomplish the mission.

The Role

We are looking for Research Scientists to join our Research Team. We are looking for accomplished researchers with a PhD in relevant areas of computer science interested in working on various aspects of the complex system that Matter Labs is building, including security, performance, networking, hardware, programming languages, program correctness, and various aspects of applied cryptography related to zero-knowledge proofs.

We expect you to have a track record of research in a relevant area and to be connected to both the academic community and industrial practice. Experience of working on other blockchain projects is a plus but not a requirement.

What You’ll Be Doing

  • We expect you to be an expert in your field and to apply your knowledge and expertise to come up with solutions relevant to what Matter Labs is building.
  • We expect you to work with both research scientists as well as engineers and engineering managers to get what you produce deployed.
  • We expect you to be a member of the academic community and to read and possibly write papers, listen and possibly give presentations, in order to stay abreast of the most recent developments as they happen.

What We Look For In You

  • Experience in one (or more) of the following areas: performance (distributed systems, runtimes, networking stack), security, verification and/or machine learning.
  • A PhD in computer science or related discipline.
  • A track record of research relevant to or deployed in an industrial setting.
  • Ability and willingness to produce technical blogs, reports, and papers.
  • Deep understanding of software engineering best-practices.
  • Ownership mindset and a track record of successfully accomplished projects.
  • In-depth knowledge of common algorithms, data structures, and their computational & memory complexities.
  • Proven publication history.
  • Experience implementing complex prototypes both from scratch and based on existing code bases.
  • Ability to produce code that leads to industrial deployment.
  • English is your native language or you are completely fluent.

Working at Matter Labs

At Matter Labs, you have the freedom to work how you want, when you want, and from where you want. All positions are 100% remote (with optional travel to team and/or industry events). We operate in lean and nimble teams, with no time tracking and minimum bureaucracy. We move fast. Only results matter. We will provide you with everything you need to learn, grow, and be productive.

Our results-only environment means anyone who believes in our mission can join us, regardless of background, sexual orientation, race, gender, and age. Both our team and community are made up of people from diverse backgrounds. That’s why, out of politeness and respect, we refrain from opinions on politics, religion, or sex at the workplace.

We designed our culture around the tenants of freedom and ownership. This ethos will underpin our positive-sum community as we evolve toward full decentralization.

If this role resonates with you, apply now for prompt feedback.

Important: We are remote-first, operating in the timezones between UTC-5 (Latam and Atlantic Coast) to UTC+7 (South-East Asia). While we’re currently not hiring in the US, we do consider US-based applicants willing to relocate.

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Research Scientist

Iqtalent

Posted today

Job Viewed

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Job Description

At Matter Labs, we believe freedom drives progress and prosperity. We don’t see ourselves as a company, but as a team aligned around a single mission: to advance personal freedom for all (see ZK Credo).

To achieve this goal, we’re building zkSync — a credibly neutral, fully open source technology stack and network on top of Ethereum, which is owned and governed by its community. We use advanced cryptography called zero-knowledge proofs to scale Ethereum infinitely without compromising on security or decentralization. With a world-class team, a community of over 1M supporters across Twitter + Discord, and hundreds of millions $ in funding, we have abundant resources to accomplish the mission.

The Role

We are looking for Research Scientists to join our Research Team. We are looking for accomplished researchers with a PhD in relevant areas of computer science interested in working on various aspects of the complex system that Matter Labs is building, including security, performance, networking, hardware, programming languages, program correctness, and various aspects of applied cryptography related to zero-knowledge proofs.

We expect you to have a track record of research in a relevant area and to be connected to both the academic community and industrial practice. Experience of working on other blockchain projects is a plus but not a requirement.

What You’ll Be Doing

  • We expect you to be an expert in your field and to apply your knowledge and expertise to come up with solutions relevant to what Matter Labs is building.
  • We expect you to work with both research scientists as well as engineers and engineering managers to get what you produce deployed.
  • We expect you to be a member of the academic community and to read and possibly write papers, listen and possibly give presentations, in order to stay abreast of the most recent developments as they happen.

What We Look For In You

  • Experience in one (or more) of the following areas: performance (distributed systems, runtimes, networking stack), security, verification and/or machine learning.
  • A PhD in computer science or related discipline.
  • A track record of research relevant to or deployed in an industrial setting.
  • Ability and willingness to produce technical blogs, reports, and papers.
  • Deep understanding of software engineering best-practices.
  • Ownership mindset and a track record of successfully accomplished projects.
  • In-depth knowledge of common algorithms, data structures, and their computational & memory complexities.
  • Proven publication history.
  • Experience implementing complex prototypes both from scratch and based on existing code bases.
  • Ability to produce code that leads to industrial deployment.
  • English is your native language or you are completely fluent.

Working at Matter Labs

At Matter Labs, you have the freedom to work how you want, when you want, and from where you want. All positions are 100% remote (with optional travel to team and/or industry events). We operate in lean and nimble teams, with no time tracking and minimum bureaucracy. We move fast. Only results matter. We will provide you with everything you need to learn, grow, and be productive.

Our results-only environment means anyone who believes in our mission can join us, regardless of background, sexual orientation, race, gender, and age. Both our team and community are made up of people from diverse backgrounds. That’s why, out of politeness and respect, we refrain from opinions on politics, religion, or sex at the workplace.

We designed our culture around the tenants of freedom and ownership. This ethos will underpin our positive-sum community as we evolve toward full decentralization.

If this role resonates with you, apply now for prompt feedback.

Important: We are remote-first, operating in the timezones between UTC-5 (Latam and Atlantic Coast) to UTC+7 (South-East Asia). While we’re currently not hiring in the US, we do consider US-based applicants willing to relocate.

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Research Scientist

Worcester, Western Cape Worcester Polytech

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JOB TITLE

Research Scientist

LOCATION

Worcester

DEPARTMENT NAME

Mechanical Engineering - NFR JM

DIVISION NAME

Worcester Polytechnic Institute - WPI

JOB DESCRIPTION SUMMARY

We are seeking a highly skilled and driven individual with expertise in materials science and mechanical engineering to lead a project in materials and structures for extreme environments. This initiative is a collaborative venture between aerospace corporate partners and a multi-disciplinary team of researchers at WPI with the goal of developing novel coating technologies to enhance the durability and reliability of engine blade components. The Research Scientist position will involve designing methodology/setups and conducting experiments that will contribute to the development of novel thermal barrier coatings for advanced turbine airfoils. The candidate should be prepared to work in a fast-paced environment, which requires regular reports and presentations to research sponsors. WPI is passionate about creating an inclusive workplace that promotes and values diversity. We encourage applications from candidates who can support our commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Responsibilities
  • Design experimental methodology/setups for thermal gradient testing of thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) in engine turbine blades under high temperatures and aggressive environments
  • Conduct spallation life testing of TBCs under a thermal gradient to assess the effect of factors such as temperature, cycle, and loading conditions on the life of TBCs
  • Serve as a technical and programmatic liaison to engineers and scientists at our corporate partners on the development of testing methods and conducting testing of TBCs
  • Coordinate with the research team at WPI on experimental investigations and modeling to quantify mechanical and interfacial behavior of TBCs
  • Coordinate with the research team at WPI for experimental investigations and modeling of thermo-mechanical fatigue of superalloys used in engine turbine blades
  • Train personnel (graduate students, post-doctoral fellows, corporate researchers on testing methods, analysis, and characterization
  • Collaborate with WPI faculty from various departments to deliver technical results and progress in the form of technical reports, publications, and presentations
Required Skills
  • Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Applied Physics, or related fields
  • Practical knowledge of design of experimental setups and standard lab practices
  • Experience in experimental mechanics (in particular, mechanical testing, thermal and environmental testing, and basic material characterization (SEM, TEM, EBSD))
  • Ability to work independently and in large multi-disciplinary teams
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills
Desired Skills
  • Experience designing, building, and conducting experiments that involve combustion and high temperature
  • Experience with data acquisition, instrumentation, and/or signal conditioning
  • Experience in the mechanical and thermal testing of coatings/thin films
  • Basic knowledge of mechanics of materials (thermo-mechanical fatigue, creep, fracture mechanics), interface adhesion testing, and life predictions
  • Basic knowledge of numerical modeling and finite element software
Required Documents
  • Cover Letter / Statement of Interest
  • Curriculum Vitae
  • List of References

FLSA STATUS

United States of America (Exempt)

WPI is an Equal Opportunity Employerthat actively seeks to increase the diversityof its workplace. 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 withdiverse 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.

Thank you for your interest in a career with Worcester Polytechnic Institute. You may review the status of your application on your candidate home account. Please continue to check for new openings and follow our social media links to stay up to date on what is happening at WPI.

WPI strives to provide very competitive and comprehensive benefits ranging from health insurance, retirement, tuition assistance, flexible spending accounts, work-life and much more. If you want a new challenge and want to make a difference, then WPI can help you get there!

WPI is a vibrant, active, and diverse community of world-renowned faculty, extraordinary students, and dedicated staff—all committed to changing the world. At WPI, we have competitive and comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, retirement, tuition assistance, flexible spending accounts, work-life balance and much more.

WPI is committed to creating an inclusive workplace culture where everyone feels valued and respected; a place where every student, faculty and staff member can belong, so that they can study, live, and work comfortably, to reach their full potential, and make meaningful contributions in order to meet departmental and institutional goals. WPI thrives on innovative practice and welcomes diverse perspectives, insight, and people from diverse lived experiences, to enhance the community environment and propel the institution to the next level in a competitive, global marketplace. Please take the time to read our diversity r ecruitment brochure showcasing testimonials from many of our employees who come from diverse backgrounds and contribute to the vibrant and inclusive community at WPI.

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Product Research Scientist, Lelapa Ai

Johannesburg, Gauteng Zindi

Posted 9 days ago

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Job Description

About Us

Lelapa AI is building a localised African AI lab and pioneering language technologies designed for Africans, by Africans—pushing the boundaries of AI research, product development, and technological innovation. As a fast-growing, high-impact AI startup, our distributed team across Africa, Europe, and North America is shaping the future of AI on the continent. The coming wave of African AI talent needs a home to continue their work: to do their best research, and to convert the results into products that improve African lives. Lelapa AI will be that home.

About The Role

The challenge is big! Low-resourced languages do not have enough data to train traditional models. Low-resourced languages need to be deployed on low- resourced hardware. How do we create models that are both data-efficient and resource-efficient? How can we match user needs quickly? How good are the models really? We are looking for a brave Product Research Scientist to research, build and improve multilingual African language models for various African NLP tasks (with a focus on transcription and translation)

Responsibilities

  • Model Development: Design, develop, and optimise NLP models tailored to African languages, dialects, and linguistic characteristics for real-world applications. This includes tasks such as language modelling, speech recognition, sentiment analysis, machine translation, and more.
  • Model Diagnostics:
  • Dig deep into Model Success & Failures:
  • Perform error analysis (with the help of language experts) to understand where the models might be failing
  • Develop processes, frameworks for understanding model failures in detail.
  • Discover insights for researchers to improve their modes.
  • Incorporate model explainability and interpretability metrics into the evaluations.
  • Evaluation and Testing: Design and implement rigorous testing and evaluation frameworks to assess the performance and effectiveness of NLP models and products across various African languages. Contribute to continuous monitoring and analysis of models in production.
  • Data Acquisition and Annotation: Collaborate with data team and linguists to curate and preprocess linguistic data specific to African languages. Develop strategies for data collection, cleaning, and annotation.
  • Product Design: Work closely with the product team to translate research findings into practical, user-friendly NLP applications and tools that address real-world problems faced by Africans. Work with the product team to integrate updates and feedback into models to improve models. Iterate quickly on base models to supply product demos with finetuned models according to client domains.
  • Collaboration: Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including engineers, designers, and product managers, to integrate NLP solutions into our products and ensure seamless user experiences.
  • Documentation and Communication: Document research findings, methodologies, and algorithms. Present research findings and progress updates to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. Keep published model’s datasheets and model cards up to date.
  • Continuous Learning: Stay current with advancements in NLP, machine learning, and related fields. Attend conferences, workshops, and seminars to enhance practice.

Skills

Required:

  • Degree in Data Science Computer Science, Natural Language Processing, Machine Learning, or a related field is preferred (Masters level preferred)
  • 2-3 years experience working in Data Science and/or on real-world AI products.
  • Proficiency in programming languages such as Python and experience with deep learning frameworks like TensorFlow or PyTorch and NLP libraries such as HuggingFace.
  • Experience or excitement for working in fast-paced startup environments and ability to manage competing priorities
  • Passion for leveraging technology to address linguistic and cultural challenges to drive positive impact in Africa
  • Comfortability with detailed error analysis for real-world use cases
  • High attention to detail
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to work independently.
  • Strong communication and collaboration skills.
  • Ability to think critically, be self-driven and break down hard problems
  • Knowledge on Responsible AI and the limitations of machine learning
  • Familiarity with Agile processes.

Plus

  • Knowledge of African languages.
  • Experience in working on NLP projects in African contexts.
  • Experience with utilising MLOps tools and models in production
  • Strong background in NLP research and development, with a focus on language modeling, speech recognition, sentiment analysis, machine ranslation, or similar areas.
  • A strong understanding of techniques for working with low-resourced languages (e.g. transfer learning, few shot learning, active learning)
  • Publications in NLP

Benefits

  • Flexible work arrangements with remote-friendly policies
  • Opportunity to drive research innovation in a high-growth AI startup
  • Medical aid contribution
  • Substantial parental leave.
  • Work with cutting-edge AI technologies focused on African languages and use cases
  • 25 days of vacation leave
  • Direct impact on product roadmap and technology decisions

Remuneration

R 50 000 - R 80 000 per month (depending on seniority) #J-18808-Ljbffr
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Product Research Scientist, Lelapa AI

Gauteng, Gauteng Zindi

Posted 12 days ago

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Job Description

workfromhome

Zindi, based in Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa, is seeking a Product Research Scientist, Lelapa AI . Lelapa AI is building a localized African AI lab focused on language technologies for Africans, by Africans. Our team across Africa, Europe, and North America aims to advance AI research, product development, and innovation to benefit African communities.

About the Role

We face the challenge of developing NLP models for low-resourced African languages, which require data-efficient and resource-efficient solutions. The Product Research Scientist will research, build, and improve multilingual African language models for NLP tasks such as transcription and translation.

Responsibilities

  • Design, develop, and optimize NLP models for African languages, including speech recognition, sentiment analysis, and machine translation.
  • Perform error analysis and understand model failures with the help of language experts.
  • Develop evaluation frameworks and monitor models in production.
  • Collaborate with data teams and linguists for data collection, cleaning, and annotation.
  • Translate research into practical NLP applications in collaboration with product teams.
  • Document research findings and present to stakeholders.
  • Stay updated with advancements in NLP and machine learning.

Skills & Qualifications

  • Degree in Data Science, Computer Science, NLP, or related field (Masters preferred).
  • 2-3 years experience in Data Science or AI products.
  • Proficiency in Python, TensorFlow or PyTorch, and NLP libraries like HuggingFace.
  • Experience working in fast-paced startup environments.
  • Passion for addressing linguistic and cultural challenges in Africa.
  • Strong problem-solving, communication, and collaboration skills.
  • Knowledge of Responsible AI and ML limitations.

Preferred

  • Knowledge of African languages and NLP projects in African contexts.
  • Experience with MLOps tools and low-resource language techniques.
  • Publications in NLP.

Benefits

  • Remote-friendly work arrangements.
  • Opportunity to innovate in AI for African languages.
  • Medical aid, parental leave, 25 days vacation, and impact on product roadmap.

Remuneration

R 50,000 - R 80,000 per month, depending on experience.

Seniority Level
  • Mid-Senior level
Employment Type
  • Full-time
Job Function & Industry
  • Other
  • IT Services and IT Consulting
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Staff Research Scientist (AI for Chemistry, term 2-year)

George, Western Cape University of Toronto

Posted 9 days ago

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Staff Research Scientist (AI for Chemistry, term 2-year)

Date Posted: 04/25/2025
Req ID: 42677
Faculty/Division: Faculty of Arts & Science
Department: Acceleration Consortium
Campus: St. George (Downtown Toronto)

Description:

The Acceleration Consortium (AC) at the University of Toronto (U of T) is leading a transformative shift in scientific discovery that will accelerate technology development and commercialization. The AC is a global community of academia, industry, and government that leverages the power of artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, materials sciences, and high-throughput chemistry to create self-driving laboratories (SDLs), also called materials acceleration platforms (MAPs). These autonomous labs rapidly design materials and molecules needed for a sustainable, healthy, and resilient future, with applications ranging from renewable energy and consumer electronics to drugs. AC Staff Research Scientists will advance the field of AI-driven autonomous discovery and develop the materials and molecules required to address society’s largest challenges, such as climate change, water pollution, and future pandemics.

The Acceleration Consortium (AC) promotes an inclusive research environment and supports the EDI priorities of the unit.

Hiring is occurring on a rolling intake. Please apply ASAP and do not wait for the listed job closing date.

The Acceleration Consortium received a$200M Canadian First Research Excellence Grantf or seven years to develop self-driving labs for chemistry and materials, the largest ever grant to a Canadian University. This grant will provide the Acceleration Consortium with seven years of funding to execute its vision

The AC is developing seven advanced SDLs plus an AI and Automation lab:

  • SDL1 - Inorganic solid-state compounds for advanced materials and energy
  • SDL2 - Organic small molecules for sustainability and health
  • SDL3 - Medicinal chemistry for improving small molecule drug candidates
  • SDL4 - Polymers for materials science and biological applications
  • SDL5 - Formulations for pharmaceuticals, consumer products, and coatings
  • SDL6 - Biocompatibility with organoids / organ-on-a-chip
  • SDL7 - Synthetic scale-up of materials and molecules (University of British Colombia partner lab)
  • A central AI and Automation lab to support all the SDLs

This posted position is for a role with SDL2 (Organic Small Molecules)

We seek a scientist to develop ML-driven tools for accelerating organic synthesis and novel material discovery. The role involves leveraging cheminformatics and generative models to design molecules, predict reaction pathways, and optimize materials for applications in sustainability, healthcare, or energy.

Expertise that is desired: Cheminformatics and Machine Learning

  • Demonstrated development or application of machine learning tools to address chemical problems, including but not limited to: property prediction, reaction prediction, condition optimization, retrosynthesis, interpretable machine learning, nature language processing for data-mining and human-robot interfacing,and generative models (e.g. GANs, VAE, and diffusion models) for de novo molecular design.
  • Proven experience in cheminformatics pipelines using tools such as RDKit, various molecular representation and encoding methods (SMILES, SELFIES, graph-based models), QSAR, virtual screening, or molecular docking/simulations. Knowledge in quantum chemistry calculations and molecule dynamics.

Additional expertise that is desired (but not required): General Programming

  • Dataset curation, database management, and data-mining skills
  • Computational chemistry pipelines, and physics-informed material discovery

Additional expertise that is desired (but not required): Organic Chemistry

  • Basic understanding of organic chemistry
  • Collaborative experience with experimental chemists on synthetic organic chemistry or catalyst development projects.

Staff Scientists will work with a diverse team of leading experts at U of T, including Faculty Prof. Alan Aspuru-Guzik, Prof. Sophie Rousseaux,and Acceleration Consortium Staff Scientists Dr. Han Hao, Dr. Xiaoman Guo, Dr. Yang Cao, and Dr. Eric Isbrandt; as well as the broader Acceleration Consortium team.

The Staff Scientists involved in the AC are highly skilled and experienced researchers who will work independently to develop the AI and automation technologies required to build robust and scalable self-driving labs, manage these SDLs, and design and implement research programs (based on the direction of the AC’s scientific leadership team) that leverage the SDL platforms to discover materials and molecules. Moreover, the Staff Scientists will work collectively, sharing knowledge among each other, and with faculty, and trainees. This role will report to the Academic Director and Executive Director of the Acceleration Consortium.

The components and duties of the work can include:

  • SDL and Automation Development

Working with the AC community, including faculty and partners, to determine the required capabilities of the SDLs to be built. Developing the plans for SDLs that will meet user requirements and designing novel instruments for automated material synthesis and characterization. Developing customized hardware and Python software packages to build SDLs. Selecting, procurement, and installation of the equipment required for SDLs.

  • Research Direction

Develop research programs that leverage the AC’s SDLs and support the research objectives of AC faculty and industry partners. Using SDLs to synthesize and characterize large quantities of candidate molecules, calibrating theoretical models with experimental data, predicting promising candidates with computational tools and machine learning algorithms, and elucidating structure-property relationships of emerging molecules, polymers, solid-state materials, formulations, etc.

Tasks include:

  • Implementing research and development projects of AC’s industry partners when implemented in AC labs.
  • Developing plans that support research collaborations and planning and estimating financial resources required for programs and/or projects.
  • Working with Product Managers to ensure research outcomes meet partner requirements.
  • Promoting AC’s research capacity, including delivering presentations at conferences.
  • Collaboration in the preparation and submission of research proposals to granting agencies and progress reporting.
  • Preparing manuscripts for submission to peer-reviewed publications/journals and stewarding them through the process.
  • Other
    • Supporting consulting services related to the application of SDLs for materials discovery for the AC’s partners.
    • Support research-focused events such as the Annual Symposium

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Education – Ph.D. inchemistry, materials science, life sciences, physics, engineering, robotics, computer science, applied mathematicsor related discipline

Experience

  • 1 to 5 years of experience (inclusive of PhD and/or post-graduate work)in accelerated R&D in the area of cheminformaticsand molecule design.
  • Experience working with industry partners and on industry lead research and development projects.
  • Expert knowledge of AI and automation and experience with the development of self-driving laboratories
  • Experience presenting research at academic conferences.

Skills

  • Strong and effective communicator in oral and written English
  • Collegial in working with team members and collaborators.
  • Ability to work independently.

Other

  • Must have a strong publication record.
  • Demonstrated success in the writing and preparation of manuscripts, presentations, reports, briefs, and scientific abstracts and manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals.

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority

Closing Date: 08/31/2025, 11:59PM ET
Employee Group: Research Associate
Appointment Type : Grant - Term
Schedule: Full-Time
Pay Scale Group & Hiring Zone: R01 -- Research Associates (Limited Term): $2,574 - 98,576, salary will be assessed based on skills and experience
Job Category: Administrative / Managerial

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.

Diversity Statement

The University of Toronto embraces Diversity and is building aculture of belonging that increases our capacity to effectivelyaddress and serve the interests of our global community. Westrongly encourage applications from Indigenous Peoples,Black and racialized persons, women, persons withdisabilities, and people of diverse sexual and gender identities.We value applicants who have demonstrated a commitment toequity, diversity and inclusion and recognize that diverseperspectives, experiences, and expertise are essential tostrengthening our academic mission.

As part of your application, you will be asked to complete a brief Diversity Survey. This survey is voluntary. Any information directly related to you is confidential and cannot be accessed by search committees or human resources staff. Results will be aggregated for institutional planning purposes. For more information, please see .

Accessibility Statement

The University strives to be an equitable and inclusive community, and proactively seeks to increase diversity among its community members. Our values regarding equity and diversity are linked with our unwavering commitment to excellence in the pursuit of our academic mission.

The University is committed to the principles of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). As such, we strive to make our recruitment, assessment and selection processes as accessible as possible and provide accommodations as required for applicants with disabilities.

If you require any accommodations at any point during the application and hiring process, please contact .

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Staff Research Scientist (AI for Chemistry, term 2-year)

George, Western Cape University of Toronto

Posted today

Job Viewed

Tap Again To Close

Job Description

Press Tab to Move to Skip to Content Link

Select how often (in days) to receive an alert:

Staff Research Scientist (AI for Chemistry, term 2-year)

Date Posted: 04/25/2025
Req ID: 42677
Faculty/Division: Faculty of Arts & Science
Department: Acceleration Consortium
Campus: St. George (Downtown Toronto)

Description:

The Acceleration Consortium (AC) at the University of Toronto (U of T) is leading a transformative shift in scientific discovery that will accelerate technology development and commercialization. The AC is a global community of academia, industry, and government that leverages the power of artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, materials sciences, and high-throughput chemistry to create self-driving laboratories (SDLs), also called materials acceleration platforms (MAPs). These autonomous labs rapidly design materials and molecules needed for a sustainable, healthy, and resilient future, with applications ranging from renewable energy and consumer electronics to drugs. AC Staff Research Scientists will advance the field of AI-driven autonomous discovery and develop the materials and molecules required to address society’s largest challenges, such as climate change, water pollution, and future pandemics.

The Acceleration Consortium (AC) promotes an inclusive research environment and supports the EDI priorities of the unit.

Hiring is occurring on a rolling intake. Please apply ASAP and do not wait for the listed job closing date.

The Acceleration Consortium received a$200M Canadian First Research Excellence Grantf or seven years to develop self-driving labs for chemistry and materials, the largest ever grant to a Canadian University. This grant will provide the Acceleration Consortium with seven years of funding to execute its vision

The AC is developing seven advanced SDLs plus an AI and Automation lab:

  • SDL1 - Inorganic solid-state compounds for advanced materials and energy
  • SDL2 - Organic small molecules for sustainability and health
  • SDL3 - Medicinal chemistry for improving small molecule drug candidates
  • SDL4 - Polymers for materials science and biological applications
  • SDL5 - Formulations for pharmaceuticals, consumer products, and coatings
  • SDL6 - Biocompatibility with organoids / organ-on-a-chip
  • SDL7 - Synthetic scale-up of materials and molecules (University of British Colombia partner lab)
  • A central AI and Automation lab to support all the SDLs

This posted position is for a role with SDL2 (Organic Small Molecules)

We seek a scientist to develop ML-driven tools for accelerating organic synthesis and novel material discovery. The role involves leveraging cheminformatics and generative models to design molecules, predict reaction pathways, and optimize materials for applications in sustainability, healthcare, or energy.

Expertise that is desired: Cheminformatics and Machine Learning

  • Demonstrated development or application of machine learning tools to address chemical problems, including but not limited to: property prediction, reaction prediction, condition optimization, retrosynthesis, interpretable machine learning, nature language processing for data-mining and human-robot interfacing,and generative models (e.g. GANs, VAE, and diffusion models) for de novo molecular design.
  • Proven experience in cheminformatics pipelines using tools such as RDKit, various molecular representation and encoding methods (SMILES, SELFIES, graph-based models), QSAR, virtual screening, or molecular docking/simulations. Knowledge in quantum chemistry calculations and molecule dynamics.

Additional expertise that is desired (but not required): General Programming

  • Dataset curation, database management, and data-mining skills
  • Computational chemistry pipelines, and physics-informed material discovery

Additional expertise that is desired (but not required): Organic Chemistry

  • Basic understanding of organic chemistry
  • Collaborative experience with experimental chemists on synthetic organic chemistry or catalyst development projects.

Staff Scientists will work with a diverse team of leading experts at U of T, including Faculty Prof. Alan Aspuru-Guzik, Prof. Sophie Rousseaux,and Acceleration Consortium Staff Scientists Dr. Han Hao, Dr. Xiaoman Guo, Dr. Yang Cao, and Dr. Eric Isbrandt; as well as the broader Acceleration Consortium team.

The Staff Scientists involved in the AC are highly skilled and experienced researchers who will work independently to develop the AI and automation technologies required to build robust and scalable self-driving labs, manage these SDLs, and design and implement research programs (based on the direction of the AC’s scientific leadership team) that leverage the SDL platforms to discover materials and molecules. Moreover, the Staff Scientists will work collectively, sharing knowledge among each other, and with faculty, and trainees. This role will report to the Academic Director and Executive Director of the Acceleration Consortium.

The components and duties of the work can include:

  • SDL and Automation Development

Working with the AC community, including faculty and partners, to determine the required capabilities of the SDLs to be built. Developing the plans for SDLs that will meet user requirements and designing novel instruments for automated material synthesis and characterization. Developing customized hardware and Python software packages to build SDLs. Selecting, procurement, and installation of the equipment required for SDLs.

  • Research Direction

Develop research programs that leverage the AC’s SDLs and support the research objectives of AC faculty and industry partners. Using SDLs to synthesize and characterize large quantities of candidate molecules, calibrating theoretical models with experimental data, predicting promising candidates with computational tools and machine learning algorithms, and elucidating structure-property relationships of emerging molecules, polymers, solid-state materials, formulations, etc.

Tasks include:

  • Implementing research and development projects of AC’s industry partners when implemented in AC labs.
  • Developing plans that support research collaborations and planning and estimating financial resources required for programs and/or projects.
  • Working with Product Managers to ensure research outcomes meet partner requirements.
  • Promoting AC’s research capacity, including delivering presentations at conferences.
  • Collaboration in the preparation and submission of research proposals to granting agencies and progress reporting.
  • Preparing manuscripts for submission to peer-reviewed publications/journals and stewarding them through the process.
  • Other
    • Supporting consulting services related to the application of SDLs for materials discovery for the AC’s partners.
    • Support research-focused events such as the Annual Symposium

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Education – Ph.D. inchemistry, materials science, life sciences, physics, engineering, robotics, computer science, applied mathematicsor related discipline

Experience

  • 1 to 5 years of experience (inclusive of PhD and/or post-graduate work)in accelerated R&D in the area of cheminformaticsand molecule design.
  • Experience working with industry partners and on industry lead research and development projects.
  • Expert knowledge of AI and automation and experience with the development of self-driving laboratories
  • Experience presenting research at academic conferences.

Skills

  • Strong and effective communicator in oral and written English
  • Collegial in working with team members and collaborators.
  • Ability to work independently.

Other

  • Must have a strong publication record.
  • Demonstrated success in the writing and preparation of manuscripts, presentations, reports, briefs, and scientific abstracts and manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals.

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority

Closing Date: 08/31/2025, 11:59PM ET
Employee Group: Research Associate
Appointment Type : Grant - Term
Schedule: Full-Time
Pay Scale Group & Hiring Zone: R01 -- Research Associates (Limited Term): $2,574 - 98,576, salary will be assessed based on skills and experience
Job Category: Administrative / Managerial

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.

Diversity Statement

The University of Toronto embraces Diversity and is building aculture of belonging that increases our capacity to effectivelyaddress and serve the interests of our global community. Westrongly encourage applications from Indigenous Peoples,Black and racialized persons, women, persons withdisabilities, and people of diverse sexual and gender identities.We value applicants who have demonstrated a commitment toequity, diversity and inclusion and recognize that diverseperspectives, experiences, and expertise are essential tostrengthening our academic mission. As part of your application, you will be asked to complete a brief Diversity Survey. This survey is voluntary. Any information directly related to you is confidential and cannot be accessed by search committees or human resources staff. Results will be aggregated for institutional planning purposes. For more information, please see . Accessibility Statement

The University strives to be an equitable and inclusive community, and proactively seeks to increase diversity among its community members. Our values regarding equity and diversity are linked with our unwavering commitment to excellence in the pursuit of our academic mission. The University is committed to the principles of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). As such, we strive to make our recruitment, assessment and selection processes as accessible as possible and provide accommodations as required for applicants with disabilities. If you require any accommodations at any point during the application and hiring process, please contact . #J-18808-Ljbffr

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CLINICAL SCIENTIST - RESEARCH PROFESSOR

Johannesburg, Gauteng University of the Witwatersrand

Posted 3 days ago

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Job Description

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Join to apply for the CLINICAL SCIENTIST - RESEARCH PROFESSOR role at University of the Witwatersrand

Brief Description

Research Professor in The Faculty of Health Sciences (fixed-term, 5 years, renewable based on performance) - AC04/AC05.

The Faculty Of Health Sciences, University Of The Witwatersrand, Seeks To Appoint a Research Professor/Senior Clinician Scientist. The Focus Of The Researchercan Be In Any Of The Following Fields

i.Cardiology with special focus on Hypertension and Cardiovascular Prevention.

ii.Endocrinology with a special focus on Obesity and Diabetes.

iii.Immunology, with a focus on cellular immunity in relation to infectious diseases or more broadly.

iv.Lung disease: including focus on childhood and/or adult acute or chronic respiratory diseases.

v.Oncology, preferably with a focus on nexus of Cancer and Infectious Diseases.

vi.Maternal and Child Health including focus on addressing stillbirths and premature labour.

vii.Infectious Diseases: including focus on antimicrobial resistance and hospital acquired infections; emerging infections and pandemic threats.

viii.In addition, applicants who are involved in research, excluding HIV and TB, on other health-care priorities in South Africa will be considered

The focus of the Position is to strengthen leadership in clinical research and teaching (undergraduate and post-graduate level).

About The Faculty Of Health Sciences

The Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of the Witwatersrand is the largest Health Sciences Faculty in South Africa, with the highest number of Medical Doctor (MBBCh) graduates (~340 annually) and post-graduate specialists (approximately 35% of all specialists graduating annually nationally). The faculty is ranked among the top 151-200 in the field of Medicine globally, and aspires to continue strengthening its research focus, especially in diseases considered to be of priority in South Africa. There are approximately 5,000 in-patient beds across the four major Academic Hospital Complexes where the faculty operates, with a diversity of pathology being managed.

Duties And Responsibilities

In the consideration of applications for the professorship, the main emphasis will be on the applicant's ability to document a high level of original scientific work at an international level within their field of expertise.

The Professor’s Responsibilities Will Primarily Consist Of

  • Research in the field of expertise, including publication/academic dissemination.
  • Research leadership, including guidance and supervision of PhD and Masters of Medicine students and other researchers, including Joint staff employed by the Gauteng Department of Health

(GDoH).

  • Teaching of under-graduate and post-graduate students (maximum of 15% effort).
  • Academic assessments

The position is open to internal and external applicants.

Qualifications

  • Applicants must hold a specialist degree in their relevant field of study. A sub-specialty qualification will be preferable. A PhD although not essential, will be given appropriate

weight.

  • Applicants must be at the level of or meet the requirements to be appointed at least at the level ofassociate professor based on Faculty Staffing and Promotion criteria
  • South African based applicants should be registered by the Health Professional Council of South Africa. Non-South Africans will be considered, although will be exempt from patient service.
  • Applicants should be eligible for appointment at the level of a Full Professor at the University of the Witwatersrand (or on track to be promoted within a three-year period).

The criteria (research, teaching, societal impact, organisational contribution, external funding and leadership) for eligibility of a Personal or Research Professor at the University of the Witwatersrand is available here:Promotion Criteria.pdf

Furthermore, Each Applicant Must Be Able To

  • Document a high degree of original academic production at an international level, including considerable contributions to the development of the academic discipline.
  • Manage research and other management functions, e.g. engage in the university’s external academic activities, as well as knowledge and technology transfer
  • Provide research-based teaching.

The candidate is also required to possess good interpersonal and exceptional communicative skills.

PROCEDURE

After the expiry of the deadline for applications, the HR Department will embark on a selection process, in line with the University policy, upon which, an appropriately constituted appointments committee will screen applicants and conduct interviews for the appointment of the candidates.

CONDITIONS

Salary and conditions of employment will be based on the University of the Witwatersrand terms and conditions of employment.

For the professorship, the appointee will receive a pensionable annual salary at the level of a Senior Consultant in GDoH.

The clinical professors will receive secretarial or technical support by a core secretariat employed by the University. Additional support and details on the working conditions will be negotiated with the Academic Head of Department and the Clinical Heads of the respective Department that the candidate will be linked to. Applicants will be responsible for raising funds for their planned research activity. Some seed funding will be provided in the first two years of the tenure.

Applicants will need to restrict any clinical practice to the equivalent of a maximum of one day per week, with the understanding it would not impact on their research productivity.

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT

The position is a fixed-term position, limited to a period of five years. This will be renewable subject to demonstrating success in research throughput (including minimum of an average of six manuscripts per annum in international peer-reviewed journals reporting on original research as the primary or senior author), supervision of postgraduates and success in obtaining significant grants to support the research activities, including the possibility of self-funding of the applicants salary at the end of the five year period.

Closing Date: Rolling applications, with the next closing date 14 July 2025

For further information, please contact:

All eligible candidates are encouraged to apply for these positions.

The awarding of the title Professor/Associate Professor will depend on the successful candidate's qualifications, research and other academic criteria as determined by the faculty guidelines.

Detailed Description

Job Requirements

Additional Details

Seniority level
  • Seniority level Not Applicable
Employment type
  • Employment type Full-time
Job function
  • Job function Research, Analyst, and Information Technology
  • Industries Education Administration Programs and Higher Education

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Research Associate (NPSA)

Pretoria, Gauteng United Nations University

Posted 4 days ago

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Job Description

The application period has been extended. Closing date: 14 August 2022.

UNU-WIDER is hiring a Research Associate in Pretoria, South Africa.

As a Research Associate, you would contribute to the research and management of our Southern African – Towards Inclusive Economic Development (SA-TIED) programme, which builds critical bridges between research and policy in South Africa.

For the full job description and to apply, visit UNU Careers .

UNU offers three types of contracts: fixed-term staff positions (General Service, National Officer, and Professional), Personnel Service Agreement positions (PSA), and consultant positions (CTC). For more information, see the Contract Types page .

Please review UNU’s Recruitment and Selection Process before applying for a position.

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