# Research Scientist - Reinforcement Learning, Self-Driving

**Company:** [Applied Intuition](https://hotfix.jobs/companies/applied-intuition)
**Location:** Sunnyvale, CA
**Role:** ML Engineering
**Salary:** $126k – $423k/yr
**Skills:** Reinforcement Learning, PyTorch, Python, Computer Vision, Robotics, Distributed Machine Learning, Self-Play Rl, Imitation Learning, Vla Post-Training, Ray
**Posted:** 2026-04-21

> Conducts cutting-edge research in reinforcement learning, self-play RL, VLA post-training, and closed-loop RL for autonomous driving and robotics. Requires strong research record with publications, MSc/PhD in ML/CV, and expertise in Python, PyTorch, computer vision, and robotics.

## Job Description

## Responsibilities
- Conduct research on reinforcement learning (RL) related topics including large-scale self-play RL, VLA post-training, large-scale closed-loop RL based on neural simulation with applications to autonomous driving
- Dive into fundamental topics on RL with broader applications and potential imitative behavior learning incorporation, and relevant topics such as reward learning
- Work closely with other Research Scientists and interns on research publications for submission to top-tier conferences
- Collaborate with Research Engineers and engineering teams to test and deploy algorithms to our autonomy and robotics products

## Requirements
- Strong research record in the fields of RL and VLA post-training for autonomous systems and robotics, with publications in top-tier conferences or journals in the fields of computer vision, machine learning, and robotics
- MSc or PhD in machine learning and computer vision with autonomy and robotics applications or closely-related fields
- Passion for next-generation, scalable autonomy and robotics for real-world systems
- Strong research skills and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively on projects
- Technical experience in: **Python**, **PyTorch**, computer vision, robotics systems, and distributed machine learning model training

## Nice to Have
- Hands-on experience in at least one of the following fields:
  - Self-play RL and imitation learning, behavior learning
  - VLA post-training for autonomy or robotics
  - Large-scale closed-loop RL in driving simulation
  - Large-scale RL training infrastructure (**Ray** preferred)

## Compensation
- Base salary range: **$126,000 - $423,000 USD** annually
- Equity, comprehensive health/dental/vision/life/disability insurance, 401k with employer match, learning/wellness stipends, paid time off

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