Research Scientist – Vision Foundation Model & GenAI

Sony AI is seeking research scientists to join our Privacy-Preserving Machine Learning (PPML) team. Our team mainly focuses on fundamental and applied research in privacy and security, with a focus on building vision foundation models in a trustworthy manner. The role of a research scientist is to conduct innovative research, develop methodologies, design and prototype solutions, and collaborate with various team members to empower real-world AI applications (e.g., Imaging&Sensing) in Sony.

Roles and Responsibilities:

• Conduct fundamental and innovative research in large vision foundation models, including but not limited to architecture design and methodology design.

• Contribute to the deployment of foundation models and use them in production to solve problems of business partners.

• Work closely with research, engineering, and product teams, seeking high-impact opportunities to launch solutions and advance long-term business growths, specifically Imaging&Sensing business.

• Deep understanding of large vision foundation model development and various CV applications, such as Image classification, object detection, pose detection, semantic segmentation, etc.Publish influential research outcomes, and give presentations in top-tier conferences and journals.

Required Qualifications and Skills:

• Work experience with a role with a primary emphasis on vision foundation model and computer vision research.

• PhD (or equivalent experience) in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Math, Statistics, data science, or other related disciplines.

• Publications or hands-on experience in large vision foundation model development, computer vision, data synthesis, knowledge distillation, and distributed/decentralized system design.

• Strong programming skills in Python, experience in Pytorch or Tensorflow.

• Excellent communication and presentation skills.

• Ability to work in a team

• (Preferred) Experience in leading or participating in significant research projects.

• (Preferred) Experience in computer vision applications and/or AI

• (Preferred) Paper awards in top conferences, or winner of international competition award

Your new office:

Surrounded by Swiss Alps, the Schlieren office is at the doorstep of Zurich, which is consistently voted in top three best cities to live. The city benefits from a very rich ecosystem where prestigious universities, research institutes, companies and organizations collaborate for the development and design of next generation technologies. Our office is very well connected with public transports (train, tram, bus) and located in a very modern and bright building. We have several enjoyable break rooms as well as a terrace which we use for regular social team events or as a casual working area. Our team is unique and international, representing engineering and sales/marketing functions, which creates this unique and passionate Sony Swiss DNA.

Life at Sony Research:

Our work environment is diverse and motivated with an innovative open mindset. Sony AI is committed to building a diverse team of people with different characters, stories and skillsets because we know this drives innovation and creativity. Our commitment to nurturing a friendly and supportive place of work where everyone has a sense of belonging and inclusion creates an atmosphere of learning and personal growth. We focus on achieving healthy work-life balance for our teams, supported by hybrid and flexible working.

You will work on exciting projects at the cutting edge of AI that are in the realms of entertainment or for the betterment of society, and you will have access to the most innovative technologies from across the Sony universe and the opportunity to partner with Sony’s leading companies.

When projects are finished, we publish our work, and all our contributors are recognised on research pieces, at top-tier conferences, and in journals. You will also have access to workshops and development programs to expand your knowledge and skills. We want you to drive your career, find your direction and take authorship of your personal story at Sony AI, while enjoying the security and the resource-rich environment that comes with being part of a global corporation that has R&D in its DNA.

Bring your uniqueness to Sony:

We are passionate about creating a culture that promotes equity and cultivates inclusion, diversity, and belonging. We want employees with diverse backgrounds and perspectives that will stimulate innovation and have a direct impact on our creation of social value to fulfil Sony’s purpose – ‘to fill the world with emotion, through the power of creativity and technology’. We want you to bring your unique self to work and help shape our culture.

Equal Opportunity:

Sony Europe is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment regardless of race, colour, religion, gender, citizenship, ancestry, age, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, medical condition, or any other protected characteristics.

Disability Accommodation for Applicants to Sony Europe

Sony Europe will provide reasonable accommodation for any qualified individuals with disabilities in the application process. For reasonable accommodation requests, please contact us by email at AccommodationRequest@eu.sony.com or by mail to: Sony Europe B.V, Human Resources Department, the Heights, Brooklands, Surrey, KT13 0XW, UK. When contacting us please indicate the position you are applying for, and the accommodation required.