Senior AI/ML Research Engineer

Location: Toronto, Canada

Time Type: Full time

Job Description

Push the boundaries of AI innovation while contributing to impactful research and guiding the next generation of publications. We are seeking a Senior Research Engineer to join our dynamic AI research team. In this role, you will work on cutting-edge AI technologies, contribute to the development of transformative solutions, and lead research initiatives that result in high impact publications. This role is perfect for someone passionate about applying advanced AI concepts to solve real-world challenges, publishing their work in top-tier venues, and mentoring others in the pursuit of groundbreaking research. You’ll collaborate with scientists, engineers, and cross-functional teams to deliver innovative solutions while contributing to the broader AI research community.

Lead with purpose and keep growing. See your future here.

Vanguard’s Enterprise AI and Research (EAiR) team is actively working on advancing AI innovation by integrating cutting-edge concepts into the Vanguard AI ecosystem, establishing strategic AI partnerships, and building enterprise-level AI capabilities to empower Vanguard clients with advanced AI research and technology. The team aims to ultimately accelerate critical business solutions with AI capabilities. Some of the team’s areas of research include areas around Agentic AI, Responsible AI, and Cognitive AI Architecture.

Core Responsibilities:

• Conduct advanced research in AI domains, such as Generative AI, Agentic AI, Cognitive AI architectures, call transcription, and large language models; Drive the development of new algorithms, models and techniques that push the boundaries of AI technology.

• Work closely with engineering teams to transition research findings into scalable, production-ready solutions; Develop prototypes and proof of concept systems that demonstrate the applicability of research findings to business problems.

• Publish research in top-tier AI conferences and journals (e.g., NeurIPS, ICML, CVPR, ACL); Present findings at conferences, workshops, and internal forums to showcase advancements and foster knowledge sharing.

• Mentor junior scientists and engineers in conducting high-quality research and writing impactful publications; Provide technical guidance and support to ensure research aligns with both academic and business goals.

• Partner with cross-functional teams to align research priorities with business needs; Work closely with product and engineering teams to design AI solutions that are both innovative and practical

• Ensure all research and solutions adhere to responsible AI principles, prioritizing safety.

Qualifications:

• Advanced degree (Post Doctorate or PhD or Master’s in Computer Science, AI, Data Science or related field)

• At 5+ years of relevant work experience

• Deep understanding of cutting-edge AI research topics, such as multi-agent systems, generative models, or cognitive architectures

• Familiarity with Responsible AI practices and frameworks

• Consistent publication record in top tier conferences and journals with high H-index is a plus.

AI Disclosure Statement 
Vanguard does not use artificial intelligence (AI) or automated decision-making tools in its recruitment process. All application reviews and hiring decisions are made by our recruitment team. 

 

Accommodations 

Vanguard is committed to fostering an accessible and inclusive workplace. We are committed to providing barrier-free and accessible employment practices in compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) and the Ontario Human Rights Code. If you require accommodation at any stage of the recruitment process, please inform us. We will work with you to meet your needs and you can reach us at  [email protected], quoting the job ID and job title. 

How We Work

Vanguard has implemented a hybrid working model for the majority of our crew members, designed to capture the benefits of enhanced flexibility while enabling in-person learning, collaboration, and connection. We believe our mission-driven and highly collaborative culture is a critical enabler to support long-term client outcomes and enrich the employee experience.