Senior Member of Research Staff

Voleon Group
Berkeley, CA2026-04-17Hybrid

About the job

As a Senior Member of Research Staff, you will work at the forefront of modern statistical machine learning leading key projects focused on enduring challenges of financial market prediction and portfolio optimization. Your research colleagues have collectively published hundreds of academic articles in top-tier venues on machine learning, systems, and theory, and we meet regularly to stay current on the latest academic research and share ideas. Founded by two leading scientists Voleon supports a culture of curiosity and creativity. We do not silo our teams, and you will enjoy a healthy work-life balance while tackling hard problems.

Responsibilities

Demonstrate strategic vision and perspective to oversee work that affects one or more complex systems and mission-critical areas

Complete large scope, highly complex projects resulting in noteworthy improvements to product performance and risk management

Develop a rich understanding of Voleon’s domain and methodologies

Prepare and analyze new datasets to assess their predictive efficacy

Develop, validate, and implement new models into production

Design and conduct experiments to improve simulations and evaluate the success of new models in a live environment

Build collaborative relationships cross-functionally and with key contacts outside own area of expertise, with the potential to serve as an external spokesperson for the organization

Communicate and collaborate effectively with key stakeholders at each stage, facilitating meaningful discussions around complex issues and driving progress towards tangible outcomes

Mentor other researchers and provide technical guidance, coaching, and feedback

Keep up to date on the latest academic research to identify novel approaches to explore for application to our domain

Contribute to Voleon's efforts to recruit exceptional talent

Qualifications

Minimum

5-10+ years of related experience directing key research projects and mentoring colleagues

Capability to run multiple projects simultaneously, exercising judgment in the methods, techniques, and evaluation criteria for determining results

Ability to make well-reasoned design decisions, identifying and proactively potential issues, tradeoffs, risks, and the appropriate level of abstraction

Proven success solving large-scale computing problems

Expertise in modern statistical methods and machine learning with a track record as an applied researcher

Evidence of strong mathematical abilities

Strong skills in software development techniques and production level coding (Python and/or R preferred)

Effective at communicating complex technical issues simply and transparently, including writing insightful documentation

Ability to influence without requiring formal authority, with a proven track record of influence beyond your team

Interest in financial applications is essential, but prior finance industry experience is not a prerequisite

Ph.D. level coursework is required, and a Ph.D. degree in a relevant field is preferred

Preferred

No preferred qualifications listed.