Research Engineer on Open-Source Foundation Models

Job description

Snapshot

Artificial Intelligence is reshaping our world. Now you get to shape AI. This large and ambitious project aims to develop a groundbreaking family of advanced, multilingual, open source foundation models based on solid research on model architecture, data quality, scaling, generalizability, finetuning, and safety. It combines the unique expertise of leading AI companies and top academic labs to create models with stronger generalization and finetuning capabilities, as well as enhanced transparency and safety. This will be an inclusive, community-driven project designed to and foster a new wave of innovation and scientific advancement.

The team

The Automated Machine Learning team at TU Eindhoven focusses on cutting-edge research to advance the capabilities of machine learning models, while also democratizing AI and leveraging it to help humanity. We are a team of scientists and engineers who aim to deeply understand, explain, and build AI systems that learn continually and automatically assemble themselves to learn faster and better. In addition to producing highly-cited research published at top academic venues, we build models and systems that are widely used by people every day. This work is part of a large and talented team with world-class labs and experts across Europe, supported by well-known companies with advanced knowledge of LLM development.

The role

We are looking for an exceptional research engineer with a passion for AI and open-source development. In this role, you will design and build cutting-edge tools and software that will shape the future of foundation models, used by millions of people worldwide. We appreciate a strong empirical and theoretical understanding of deep learning.

Key responsibilities:

• Develop and implement scalable, efficient model architectures and fine-tuning techniques.
• Build robust data processing pipelines to enhance learning and generalization.
• Design and implement benchmarks and evaluation tools to ensure transparency and safety.
• Optimize training processes and contribute to the development of innovative LLM systems with real-world applications.
• Create and tools for continuous evaluation, monitoring, and visualization of training progress.
• Collaborate with a team of researchers to tackle challenging technical problems and publish in top venues.

What we’re looking for

A motivated and skilled software engineer passionate about open source development and building high-quality, highly scalable AI systems as part of a team. Experience with machine learning, MLOps, foundation models, or LLMs is a strong plus.

Impact

This is your chance to make a real-world impact by advancing open-source foundation models while collaborating with leading AI researchers and innovative AI companies. Gain invaluable new skills as you help democratize AI, develop cutting-edge models, and create more efficient fine-tuning techniques that empower responsible innovation and drive scientific progress.

Job requirements

• Strong programming skills in languages like Python and experience with ML frameworks (e.g., PyTorch, TensorFlow).
• A pragmatic, hands-on approach to creating efficient, scalable, and reliable software systems.
• Ability to communicate technical ideas effectively, e.g. through discussions, whiteboard sessions, written documentation.
• Proven experience with open source development and tools is a plus.
• A true passion for AI!

If you are concerned that you don’t meet all the requirements sufficiently, but the job does excite you, then be sure to respond, we would love to look at your profile.

Conditions of employment

An exciting position within an international yet personal university. You are right in the middle of the students, on a green campus within walking distance of the central station. Besides beautiful architecture, you will find varied workplaces and excellent sports facilities. We also offer you:

• Full-time employment for 3 years.
• A monthly salary of minimum €4,537 to maximum €6,209 for full-time employment, depending on your knowledge and experience (scale 11 collective labour agreement for Dutch Universities).
• In addition to vacation pay, a structural end-of-year bonus of 8.3%.
• A favorable arrangement for more holidays or a sabbatical.
• A selection model for additional fringe benefits.
• Working hours in consultation for an optimal work-life balance.
• Scope for your talent with advancement prospects and excellent development opportunities such as mentoring, workshops and coaching.
• Partially paid parental leave and reimbursement for commuting expenses, working from home and the internet.
• A generous employer contribution to the favorable ABP pension plan.

Here you can discover even more information about our conditions of employment. Build on your career at TU/e!

Information and application

About TU/e

TU/e is a leading international university that educates engineers of the future and pushes the boundaries of science and technology for a better world. An international community of close to 7,000 employees and 13,000 students work and study on the vibrant and inspiring campus. For more info, see https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bxx8oosZf9Q

More information

Do you recognize yourself in this profile and would you like to know more? Please contact the hiring manager Joaquin Vanschoren, Associate Professor, j.vanschoren@tue.nl.

Visit our website for more information about the application process or the conditions of employment. Are you inspired and would like to know more about working at TU/e? Please visit our career page.

Application

If you are interested, please use the ‘apply’ button to send us your CV and letter of application with your motivation and a description of your qualifications.

Screening of candidates begins as soon as applications are received and continues until the position is filled. Where applicable, internal candidates will be given priority over external candidates where they are equally suitable.

We look forward to receiving your application!