Research Scientist, World Models for Autonomous Vehicles at Toyota Research Institute

Los Altos, California, United States

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Not SpecifiedCompensation

Senior (5 to 8 years)Experience Level

Full TimeJob Type

UnknownVisa

Automotive, Autonomous Vehicles, Artificial IntelligenceIndustries

Requirements

Ph.D. (or equivalent experience) in Machine Learning, Computer Science, Robotics, or a related field
Strong background in probabilistic modeling, reinforcement learning, and deep learning architectures (e.g., Transformers, VAEs, Diffusion Models)
Strong understanding of Bayesian inference, state-space models, and uncertainty quantification
Hands-on experience with world models, predictive modeling, or generative modeling in robotics or autonomous systems
Prior experience in publishing research at NeurIPS, ICML, CVPR, ICRA, or similar
Proficiency in Python and ML frameworks (TensorFlow, PyTorch, JAX)
Experience working with autonomous vehicle datasets, sensor modalities (LiDAR, camera, radar), and simulation environments
Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work in a fast-paced team research environment

Responsibilities

Develop and refine world models that improve the understanding of sophisticated and dynamic driving environments
Research and implement deep learning, reinforcement learning, and probabilistic modeling techniques for improved scene representation and prediction
Design algorithms that integrate sensor fusion, temporal reasoning, and uncertainty estimation to improve autonomous vehicle behavior
Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including perception, planning, and simulation engineers, to develop real-time, scalable models for deployment
Conduct experiments, simulations, and real-world validations to assess the effectiveness of world models
Publish research findings in premier conferences and journals and contribute to the AI and robotics research community
Stay up to date with advancements in machine learning, generative modeling, and simulation technologies

Skills

Key technologies and capabilities for this role

Machine LearningDeep LearningReinforcement LearningComputer VisionProbabilistic ModelingWorld ModelsRobotics

Questions & Answers

Common questions about this position

What salary can I expect for this Research Scientist role?

This information is not specified in the job description.

Is this position remote or does it require working in an office?

This information is not specified in the job description.

What qualifications and skills are required for this role?

A Ph.D. (or equivalent) in Machine Learning, Computer Science, Robotics, or related field is required, along with strong background in probabilistic modeling, reinforcement learning, deep learning architectures like Transformers, VAEs, and Diffusion Models, and understanding of Bayesian inference, state-space models, and uncertainty quantification.

What is the company culture like at Toyota Research Institute?

TRI is on a mission to improve human life through innovative tools in areas like Human Interactive Driving, with a world-class team focused on transformative mobility, and emphasizes collaboration with cross-functional teams including perception, planning, and simulation engineers.

What makes a strong candidate for this Research Scientist position?

Candidates with a Ph.D. in a relevant field, hands-on experience in probabilistic modeling, reinforcement learning, deep learning, and uncertainty quantification, plus a track record of research in machine learning and robotics, stand out.

Toyota Research Institute

Research in mobility, safety, and automation

About Toyota Research Institute

Toyota Research Institute focuses on improving mobility through research and development in the automotive and technology sectors. The company works on enhancing safety, automated driving, robotics, materials science, and machine learning. Their products include advanced safety features and automated driving systems that aim to make driving safer and more efficient. Unlike many competitors, TRI emphasizes a research-driven approach, collaborating with various partners and licensing their innovations to enhance Toyota's offerings and maintain a competitive edge. The goal of TRI is to advance mobility solutions that improve quality of life and support the transition to zero-emissions transportation.

Los Altos, CaliforniaHeadquarters

2016Year Founded

$100MTotal Funding

SEEDCompany Stage

Robotics & Automation, Automotive & Transportation, AI & Machine LearningIndustries

201-500Employees

Benefits

Highly competitive benefits package

Robust programs to support the wellbeing, happiness, and health of our people and their families.

401(k) plan including matching and annual profit sharing along with total vacation and holidays totaling 38 days per year.

Subsidized commuter benefits and generous employee and vehicle allowances

2 paid days per year to participate in volunteer activities.

Maternity Leave program with 10 paid weeks plus baby bonding leave and Milk Stork for traveling moms

Baby Bonding Leave–an additional 16 paid weeks–to all new parents, including those who choose to adopt.

Back-up child and adult / elder care programs to help everyone thrive

WellBeats Virtual Fitness Trainer.

Risks

Public skepticism may undermine AI-assisted driving safety initiatives.

Boston Dynamics' high costs could impact TRI's humanoid robot project returns.

Complexity of real-world environments may delay TRI's robot skill deployment.

Differentiation

TRI focuses on AI to enhance human life and mobility.

Partnerships with Boston Dynamics and Stanford showcase TRI's collaborative innovation.

TRI's Driving Sensei concept integrates AI to improve driver skills and engagement.

Upsides

Generative AI allows TRI's robots to learn complex tasks without new coding.

TRI's AI-driven material synthesis could revolutionize EV battery development.

Autonomous tandem drifting collaboration with Stanford pushes vehicle dynamics boundaries.

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