AI Research Scientist
Stony Brook University Libraries
Stony Brook University Libraries invites applications for the newly created position of AI Research Scientist. The AI Research Scientist will work closely with the Director of AI to conduct cutting-edge research in artificial intelligence and machine learning, with a focus on applications in library and information science.
The AI Research Scientist will design and implement novel AI algorithms and models to enhance and expand the boundaries of library services. Work will improve information retrieval and discovery, digital collections stewardship, and support data-driven decision making. In addition, the research scientist will explore unconventional and forward-thinking applications of AI that challenge traditional library paradigms. They will collaborate with library staff, faculty, and researchers across campus to identify research opportunities, secure funding, and disseminate findings through publications and scholarly activities.
Our ideal candidate possesses a strong research background in AI and machine learning, with a proven track record of peer-reviewed publications and competitive grant funding. The candidate should have experience working with large-scale datasets, training and fine-tuning AI models, and deploying AI systems in real-world settings. Familiarity with library and information science research, including knowledge organization, human-computer interaction, or information retrieval, is preferred.
The AI Research Scientist will support the University Libraries’ expanding role in AI by developing AI services, tools and collaborations across campus. The role will also contribute to the development of the AI Lab, which serves faculty, researchers, and library staff. They will help build AI capacity within the Libraries and provide research support to the university community. While the primary focus is on natural language processing (NLP), the AI Research Scientist should be open to working with other AI domains such as computer vision and audio/video analysis. This position is among the first of its kind in academic libraries nationwide and offers a unique opportunity to apply advanced AI research in support of a diverse and interdisciplinary academic community.
The successful candidate will have a broad perspective on different disciplines in a university setting and a passion for higher education and its mission. They should be comfortable working in a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment and be able to effectively communicate technical concepts to diverse audiences.
Key Responsibilities:
Research and Development
- Conduct cutting-edge research in AI and machine learning, with a focus on applications in library and information science
- Design and implement novel AI algorithms and models to enhance library services, improve information retrieval and discovery, and support data-driven decision making
- Collaborate with library staff, faculty, and researchers across campus to identify research opportunities, promote AI in research, and secure funding
- Disseminate research findings through publications and presentations at conferences and workshops
AI Lab Development
- Contribute to the development of the AI Lab, which serves faculty, researchers, and library staff
- Provide technical expertise and support for AI-based research projects in the lab
- Help build AI capacity and provide research support to the university community
Collaboration and Outreach
- Participate in education and outreach activities to raise awareness about AI and its applications in library and information science
- Contribute to the development of AI literacy programs for the university community
Professional Development
- Stay current with the latest developments in AI and machine learning through attending conferences, workshops, and training programs
- Actively participate in campus committees as well as professional organizations at the national and/or international level to contribute to the advancement of the field
- Mentor and train students, faculty and staff researchers in AI and machine learning
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
Master’s degree (foreign equivalent or higher) in information science, computer science or related field with a focus on AI or machine learning applications. One year of hands-on experience in AI/ML deployment. Ability to work in the United States without sponsorship
Preferred Qualifications:
PhD or doctorate in a relevant field (or foreign equivalent). Demonstrated record of publications in top-tier journals or conferences in areas of large language models, machine learning, or natural language processing, including impactful interdisciplinary or cross-disciplinary applications of AI. Experience with AI/ML frameworks (e.g.TensorFlow, PyTorch, or scikit-learn) and model lifecycle tools (e.g. MLflow, Hugginface). Experience with developing agentic AI solutions to complex problems. Experience with data science, librarianship, or information science research. Experience with grant writing and securing research funding. Experience designing and delivering education content (e.g. workshops, lectures, tutorials) related to AI/ML research. Broad perspective on and/or experience collaborating within the different disciplines in a university setting, including the arts, humanities, social sciences, business, health sciences, and STEM fields.
Application Instructions
About the Libraries
The University Libraries are an essential partner in Stony Brook University’s mission of global leadership in research, discovery, and learning, positioning ourselves as the hub of collaboration, digital innovation, open scholarship, and creativity. We provide the best possible access to a wide-range of resources in multiple formats and world-renowned special collections and actively contribute to student success and faculty productivity through teaching and research services in alignment with the University’s strategic priorities. Our strategic vision is to embrace innovation and AI as key components in achieving our goals. As the largest academic research library on Long Island, the Libraries serve as a vital resource for regional and global communities. The Libraries’ strategic plan can be found here: https://guides.library.stonybrook.edu/strategic-plan-2024
The University Libraries play a key role in advancing the University’s commitment to fostering an environment of accessibility,
belonging, and fairness across our spaces, collections, services, and outreach. We are strongly dedicated to these values in our hiring, training, and daily work practices—creating a culture where differences are recognized, respected, and celebrated. We welcome candidates who genuinely embrace the empathy, courage, self-reflection, and intentionality of a diverse and inclusive workplace to apply.
Special Notes
This is a twelve month open rank faculty position .
Open immediately; salary $126,000 – $136,000 plus $4,000 location pay
For this position, we are unable to sponsor candidates for work visas.
This is a tenure-track position. FLSA Exempt position, not eligible for the overtime provisions of the FLSA. Internal and external search to occur simultaneously. Anticipated Start Date: As soon as possible. **First consideration will be given to applications received by September 26, 2025, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time.
Full Time