Principal Research Scientist (Computer Science / Computational Physics)
Listing checked October 13, 2026 · pay as published by Micro1
Overview
micro1 seeks a Principal Research Scientist to join an advanced customer project that blends computational theory with AI. You will apply your domain expertise to train next-generation AI systems, shaping how models learn and reason through high-quality input. No prior AI experience is needed. You will work with frontier AI models and agents on open problems, define research direction, and set standards for scientific breakthroughs. Your rigorous approach will help determine what counts as genuine progress in your subfield.
What You'll Do6
- 1Identify and frame foundational open problems, theoretical bounds, or simulation challenges where verifiable progress can be shown.
- 2Guide AI models and agents through multi-step research processes, from proofs and algorithms to numerical experiments and high-performance simulations.
- 3Critically assess and validate results using proof checks, computational reproduction, and formal methods to find the limits of model-generated reasoning.
- 4Evaluate and document the novelty, correctness, and significance of research outputs against current literature and established results.
- 5Produce clear, concise research memos that detail research attempts, partial solutions, and observed model limitations or failure patterns.
- 6Advise on research directions, recommending promising subfields and open problems suitable for advancement via AI models and computational tools.
Requirements8
- 17 to 10+ years of active research in computer science or mathematical/computational physics, with a strong record of scholarly contributions.
- 2Field-level recognition such as major prizes, society fellowships, or plenary/invited talks at top scholarly events.
- 3A consistent publication record in leading venues within your domain, with recent results published in the past year.
- 4Demonstrated success resolving named open problems or introducing influential concepts adopted by peers.
- 5Deep, hands-on experience with computational research methods: simulation, numerical analysis, algorithmic implementation, and/or high-performance computing environments.
- 6Proven ability to rigorously examine technical work outside your immediate area of expertise.
- 7Experience on program committees, editorial boards, or with formal research tools (e.g., Lean, Coq, SAT/SMT solvers) is a strong plus.
- 8A public record of outlining open problems or showcasing research with advanced AI systems is a strong plus.
Who Should Apply
This role suits a researcher with 7 to 10+ years of active work in computer science or mathematical/computational physics, backed by a strong publication record and field-level recognition. You should have hands-on experience with simulation, numerical analysis, algorithmic implementation, or high-performance computing, and be comfortable evaluating technical work outside your immediate area. The role is less suitable for early-career researchers or those without a track record of resolving named open problems or influencing peers. Candidates often get rejected for lacking recent publications in leading venues or for not demonstrating the ability to rigorously assess work beyond their own specialty. A public record of outlining open problems or using formal tools like Lean or Coq can strengthen your fit.
Salary Insight
Compensation for this role is $100 to $400 per hour. The exact rate is discussed later in the process.
Pay and demand for Machine Learning & AI roles
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$100–$400/hr
Most Machine Learning & AI roles pay $55–$105 per hour. This role's pay sits above that range.
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Compensation
$100–400/hr
Required Skills
Application Tip
Highlight your most recent publication from the past year and explicitly name any open problems you have resolved or influential concepts you have introduced. If you have used formal tools like Lean, Coq, or SAT/SMT solvers, list them with concrete examples of how they supported your research.
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