Research Scientist, Frontier Risk Evaluations · Scale

Sat, 18 Apr 2026 15:58:57 GMT
Engineering

Scale · San Francisco, CA; New York, NY · $216,000-$270,000 USD · hybrid

As a Research Scientist focused on Frontier Risk Evaluations, you will design and create evaluation measures, harnesses and datasets for measuring the risks posed by frontier AI systems.

For example, you might do any or all of the following:

Design and build harnesses to test AI models and systems (including agents) for dangerous capabilities such as security vulnerability exploitation, CBRN uplift, and other high-risk activities;

Work with government agencies or other labs to collectively scope and design evaluations to measure and mitigate risks posed by advanced AI systems;

Publish evaluation methodologies and write technical reports for policymakers.

We are seeking talented researchers to join us in shaping this vision.

Ideally you'd have:

Commitment to our mission of promoting safe, secure, and trustworthy AI deployments in the industry as frontier AI capabilities continue to advance;

Practical experience conducting technical research collaboratively. You should be comfortable building and instrumenting ML pipelines, writing evaluation harnesses, and quickly turning new ideas from the research literature into working prototypes;

A track record of published research in machine learning, particularly in generative AI;

At least three years of experience addressing sophisticated ML problems, whether in a research setting or in product development;

Strong written and verbal communication skills to operate in a cross-functional team.

Nice to have:

Experience in crafting evaluations and benchmarks, or a background in data science roles related to LLM technologies;

Experience with red-teaming or adversarial testing of AI systems;

Familiarity with AI safety policy frameworks (e.g., NIST AI RMF, EU AI Act, Korea AI Basic Act).

Our research interviews are crafted to assess candidates' skills in practical ML prototyping and debugging, their grasp of research concepts, and their alignment with our organisational culture. We will not ask any LeetCode-style questions. If you’re excited about advancing AI safety and contributing to our mission, we encourage you to apply, even if your experience doesn’t perfectly align with every requirement.

Compensation packages at Scale for eligible roles include base salary, equity, and benefits. The range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target for new hire salaries for the position, determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, interview performance, and relevant education or training. Scale employees in eligible roles are also granted equity-based compensation, subject to Board of Director approval. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for your preferred location during the hiring process, and confirm whether the hired role will be eligible for equity grant. You’ll also receive benefits including, but not limited to: Comprehensive health, dental and vision coverage, retirement benefits, a learning and development stipend, and generous PTO. Additionally, this role may be eligible for additional benefits such as a commuter stipend.