Research Lead

Research Lead – $140,000 - $250,000 depending on experience – Toronto, Canada / New York, United States (Hybrid)An innovative, fast-growing technology company operating at the intersection of artificial intelligence and interactive systems is seeking a Research Lead to help shape and drive its next phase of development.The organisation focuses on leveraging game-based environments to enhance the capabilities, alignment and real-world performance of advanced AI systems. With strong backing from leading investors and established collaborations across top-tier academic institutions, the company is building a unique research-led platform that combines large-scale user interaction with cutting-edge machine learning techniques.This is a rare opportunity to take ownership of a research agenda within a high-impact, early-stage environment, working closely with both academic and industry partners while contributing to the development of next-generation AI systems.RoleThe Research Lead will define and execute a forward-looking research strategy centred on large language models, reinforcement learning, and multi-agent environments.The position sits at the core of the organisation’s research function, combining hands-on technical work with strategic oversight, partnership management, and team development. You will play a key role in demonstrating how interactive and game-based systems can improve model performance and behaviour across a range of applications.Key ResponsibilitiesDesign and deliver a multi-year research roadmap exploring the application of game-based environments to AI model developmentDevelop and optimise reinforcement learning environments and training pipelines for large-scale experimentationImplement and test algorithms across areas such as multi-agent systems, model alignment, and agent-based interactionLead and coordinate collaborations with academic partners and contribute to publications at leading conferencesDesign experiments to demonstrate measurable improvements in model capability and performanceWork closely with internal and external stakeholders, including AI labs and research partnersSupport the growth of the research function, including hiring and mentoring future team membersKey Skills Strong academic or industry research background in machine learning, computer science, or a related fieldDemonstrated experience in areas such as reinforcement learning, multi-agent systems, game theory, or large language model trainingProven ability to implement research ideas in practice, with strong programming skills (e.g. Python and ML frameworks such as PyTorch or JAX)Experience contributing to or publishing in leading conferences or journalsAbility to operate in a fast-paced, early-stage environment with a high degree of autonomyStrong communication skills and experience collaborating with academic or research institutionsDesirable:Experience within leading AI research environments or top-tier academic groupsExposure to game-based AI systems or interactive simulation environmentsFamiliarity with alignment techniques, reward modelling, or human-in-the-loop training approachesPrevious experience building or leading research teamsBenefitsCompetitive base salary with a broad range reflective of experience, plus equity participationFlexible working arrangements, with hybrid options in key locations and remote flexibility for exceptional candidatesOpportunity to collaborate with leading academic institutions and contribute to high-profile research publicationsExposure to large-scale, real-world applications of AI systems with measurable impactEarly-stage environment offering strong progression and the chance to shape the direction of the research functionIf you’re interested in applying advanced research to real-world AI systems and seeing your work deployed at scale, this is a unique opportunity to do so within a highly innovative environment.To find out more about this role, please reach out to Demetrious for a confidential discussion: dvassiliou@chisquare-analytics.com.By applying to this advert you agree to your personal details being held on file in relation to this and other future relevant opportunities.