Principal Scientist

Job Posting Organization:
The Gates Foundation, also known as the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF), is the largest nonprofit organization dedicated to fighting poverty, disease, and inequity globally. Founded on the principle that everyone should have the opportunity to lead healthy and productive lives, the foundation emphasizes the importance of diversity among its employees to reflect the populations it serves. The organization offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage with no premiums, generous paid time off, paid family leave, retirement contributions, and opportunities for employee engagement. The foundation is committed to fostering a workplace environment that supports both personal and professional growth.

Job Overview:
The Principal Scientist role at the Gates Foundation presents a unique opportunity to engage with global health policymakers and collaborate with leading researchers and nonprofit organizations. The position focuses on leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and large language models (LLM) to create positive and lasting impacts in global health and development. The successful candidate will be responsible for envisioning, planning, and implementing strategic AI initiatives, working closely with experts, field partners, and policymakers to develop solutions for critical health challenges. This role requires a proactive approach to problem-solving, creativity, and a commitment to learning and leading in the rapidly evolving field of AI.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Principal Scientist will be tasked with developing strategic AI initiatives, identifying knowledge or data gaps in relevant settings, and proposing innovative solutions. Responsibilities include envisioning and simplifying complex problems, prototyping solutions to showcase the potential of AI, providing subject matter expertise and strategic counsel across the foundation, and establishing trusted relationships with academic institutions and industry partners. The role also involves collaborating with various stakeholders to ensure the development of effective solutions and clearly communicating complex methodologies to diverse audiences.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a PhD in applied mathematics, machine learning, natural language processing, or computational linguistics, along with a minimum of 10 years of professional experience. They should be recognized as experts in artificial intelligence, with demonstrable ties to industry applications, including experience with technology startups or established positions in corporations like Microsoft Research, Nvidia, Amazon, or Google. A strong track record of scientific publications in top-tier ML/NLP conferences and/or patented inventions is essential. Proficiency in coding for deep learning, machine learning, and AI applications is required, along with experience in prototyping innovative AI solutions and adapting large language models for specific applications.

Educational Background:
A doctoral degree (PhD) in a relevant field such as applied mathematics, machine learning, natural language processing, or computational linguistics is mandatory for this position. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of AI and its applications in global health.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least 10 years of professional experience in the field of artificial intelligence, with a proven track record of expertise recognized both within and outside their organization. Experience in industry applications, particularly in technology startups or established corporations, is highly valued. Candidates should also have experience in managing multi-year projects while being adaptable to rapidly changing environments and diverse use cases.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is likely essential given the global nature of the organization and its stakeholders. Additional language skills may be beneficial, particularly in languages relevant to the populations served by the foundation.

Additional Notes:
This position is a 24-month limited-term role based in Seattle, WA, with relocation assistance provided. The salary range for this role is between $261,700 to $405,700 USD, with adjustments for high-wage market differences in Seattle and Washington D.C. New hires typically start within the range minimum and midpoint, depending on their skills and experience. Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check, and the foundation is committed to providing accommodations for candidates with disabilities during the application process. The organization values diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunity for all applicants.