About this role
We are seeking a Data Scientist with a strong research mindset to help shape the future of agentic AI systems. This role blends deep analytical thinking with fast-paced experimentation and model development, where your insights will directly inform how AI agents reason, plan, and act in dynamic environments.
You’ll work on a cross-functional team exploring how AI agents learn from real-world data, adapt to user intent, and interact autonomously—or collaboratively—with users and systems. If you’re a self-starter who thrives on ambiguity, builds fast, and can bridge theory with practical outcomes, this role is for you.
Key Responsibilities
Design and run applied research initiatives that inform the behavior and learning loops of AI agentsBuild and evaluate models for planning, memory, retrieval, reasoning, or tool use in agentic systemsDevelop internal tools and pipelines to test agent behavior across different environmentsAnalyze structured and unstructured data from user-agent interactions, logs, and experimentsRapidly prototype and test hypotheses to improve agent performance and reliabilityCollaborate with engineering, product, and design to translate insights into deployable featuresCommunicate findings clearly and concisely to both technical and non-technical audiences Minimum Qualifications
Masters or PhD in Computer Science, Applied Math, Statistics, or related quantitative field4+ years of experience in data science, applied ML, or AI researchStrong Python and SQL skills; experience with libraries like scikit-learn, PyTorch, LangChain or any similar agentic frameworkFamiliarity with LLMs, retrieval-augmented generation (RAG), Reinforcement Learning, Fine-TuningComfort with ambiguity, fast iteration cycles, and self-directed researchExcellent communication and storytelling skills — you can explain complex models to others clearlyPreferred Qualifications
Experience working with agent frameworks (AutoGen, OpenAgents, LangGraph, etc.)Background in decision-making models, memory systems, or multi-agent coordinationExposure to vector databases, embeddings, and custom RAG pipelinesExperience building evaluation frameworks or simulators for agent performanceExperience with LLM Post Training – SFT, DPO, RLHF, GRPOWho You Are
Curious – You explore the edges of what’s possible with AI agentsAction-biased – You ship prototypes quickly and iterate based on evidenceScientific – You bring structure to messy problems and back claims with dataIndependent – You operate autonomously and drive projects end-to-endCollaborative – You thrive in cross-functional teams and open discussion What We’re Offering
Salary Range: $140,000 to $150,000 annually + bonusFlexible paid time off, including sick and holiday Medical, dental, & vision insurance 401K with Company contribution Flexible spending accounts Life insurance and disability benefits Tuition assistance Community involvement and volunteering eventsM/F/Disabled/Vet VEVRAA Federal Contractor. We are a Drug-Free Workplace. Interested candidates should apply at: www.ifs.com/about/careers-at-ifs
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. VEVRAA Federal Contractor, Equal Opportunity Employer
We embrace flexibility and hybrid work opportunities to support diverse needs and lifestyles, while also valuing inclusive workplace experiences. By fostering a sense of community, we drive innovation, strengthen connections, and nurture belonging. Our commitment ensures you can work in a way that suits you best, while also engaging with colleagues to share ideas and build meaningful relationships.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. VEVRAA Federal Contractor, Equal Opportunity Employer