Forward Deployed Research Scientist
About this role
Goodfire needs a Forward Deployed Research Scientist to solve the challenge of applying advanced AI interpretability platforms to novel customer problems. The lab builds infrastructure and agents to monitor and align models, addressing the industry-wide issue of training AI through trial and error without fully understanding internal behaviors. Candidates will work directly with partners and a small team of scientists to conduct original research, prototype visualization techniques, and turn findings into practical production tools.
This role exists to bridge the gap between theoretical research and real-world deployment on high-stakes projects. Successful individuals thrive in a fast-paced environment, take full ownership of project delivery from hypothesis definition to implementation, and possess strong communication skills to explain complex concepts. Anyone who combines deep machine learning expertise with a pragmatic, mission-driven approach to safety will succeed here.
What you will do
- Collaborate directly with customers to conduct original research in AI interpretability.
- Build and prototype techniques that visualize and manipulate internal model structures.
- Partner with engineering to transition research into production-ready tooling.
- Drive partnership success by working closely with external partners to meet project requirements.
- Contribute to defining and evolving the overall research direction of the lab.
What you need
- Hold an MS, PhD, or equivalent experience in Computer Science with a strong machine learning background.
- Demonstrate hands-on experience in AI interpretability and large language models.
- Show fluency in Python and standard machine learning frameworks like PyTorch.
- Possess strong writing and communication skills to convey complex technical ideas clearly.
- Exhibit the drive to move quickly, take initiative, and own outcomes independently.
Nice to have
- Experience leading research in a forward deployed environment tailored to customer requirements
- Background working in startup or fast-paced laboratory settings
Benefits
- Market competitive salary
- Equity
- Competitive benefits
Skills and tech stack
Questions candidates ask
What is the remote work policy?
The team works in person five days a week at the San Francisco headquarters, with one company-wide remote week per month.
What is the salary range for this position?
The expected salary range for this position is $220,000 to $315,000 USD, along with equity and competitive benefits.
What technologies and languages are used?
The tech stack relies on Python and machine learning frameworks such as PyTorch for building interpretability agents and infrastructure.