Ai/ml Research Scientist

NielsenIQ’s Innovation Team is expanding its AI capabilities and is hiring an **AI/ML Research Scientist** for our **Core Models team** in Pune, India. This multidisciplinary team of researchers works across cutting-edge areas of AI including **Generative AI (GenAI)**, **Large Language Models (LLMs)**—with a particular focus on **GPT-based architectures**—as well as recommender systems and extreme classifiers.

As part of this team, you’ll stay at the forefront of AI research, especially in **Natural Language Processing (NLP)**. You’ll implement state-of-the-art algorithms to solve real-world, large-scale challenges and contribute novel ideas to advance our capabilities.

**Key Focus**:
**Responsibilities**:

- Design and develop scalable, reproducible, and maintainable data pipelines for ML solutions
- Fine-tune or train LLMs (especially GPT-based models) from scratch using custom datasets
- Conduct feasibility studies and data analysis to identify optimal solutions
- Drive innovation in custom LLM and GenAI development
- Communicate findings effectively to both technical and non-technical stakeholders
- Collaborate within a high-performing team, fostering motivation and strong team dynamics
- Contribute to scientific output including patents and publications

**Qualifications**:
**Required Education, Skills and Experience**:

- Master's degree in computer science or an equivalent numerate discipline.
- At least
years’ experience with evidence in a related field.
- Strong background in computer science, linear algebra, probability.
- Solid experience in Machine Learning and Deep Learning (special focus on Transformers).
- Proven experience in Natural Language Processing and Large Language Models.
- Proven experience building scalable data pipelines and ETLs.
- Able to understand scientific papers and develop ideas into executable code.
- Proven track record of innovation in creating novel algorithms and publishing the results in AI conferences/journals.
- Languages and technologies: Python, SQL, PySpark, Databricks, Pandas/Polars, PyArrow, PyTorch, Huggingface, git.
- Proactive attitude, constructive, intellectual curiosity, and persistence to find answers to questions.
- A proficient level of interpersonal and communication skills (English level B2 minimum).
- Keen to work as part of a diverse team of international colleagues and in a global inclusive culture.

**Additional Information**:
**Preferred Education, Skills and Experience**:

- PhD in science (NLP/Data Science is preferred) and specialized courses in one of the above-mentioned fields.
- Experience working with large real-world datasets and scalable ML solutions.
- Previous experience in e-commerce, retail and/or FMCG/Consumer Insight business.
- Agile methodologies development (SCRUM or Scale Agile).

**Additional Information**:
**Our Benefits**
- Flexible working environment
- Volunteer time off
- LinkedIn Learning
- Employee-Assistance-Program (EAP)

**About NIQ**

NIQ is the world’s leading consumer intelligence company, delivering the most complete understanding of consumer buying behavior and revealing new pathways to growth. In 2023, NIQ combined with GfK, bringing together the two industry leaders with unparalleled global reach. With a holistic retail read and the most comprehensive consumer insights—delivered with advanced analytics through state-of-the-art platforms—NIQ delivers the Full View. NIQ is an Advent International portfolio company with operations in 100+ markets, covering more than 90% of the world’s population.

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