Machine Learning Research Scientist (Audio)

About Us:

Sony AIs Music Technology Team is at the forefront of ML-driven music and audio research. We ideate research and develop cutting-edge machine learning technologies for audio and music contributing to scientific publications and Sony Group initiatives worldwide. We collaborate across EU JP and US teams in an English-speaking internationally diverse environment. Learn more about Sony AI here:

The Opportunity:

We are hiring two Research Scientists to push the boundaries of machine learning for audio and music. Within this role you will:

• Investigate and develop novel algorithms combining signal processing and ML.
• Work in areas such as:
  • Music generative modelling (e.g. diffusion models).
  • Music retrieval and matching (supervised/self-supervised).
• Lead small research projects end-to-end.
• Access world-class resources and top-tier internal talent.
• Collaborate with Sony Research teams and Business Groups globally.

Required Qualifications and Skills:

• Recent PhD in a relevant field (less than two years since graduation).
• Publications in top ML conferences (NeurIPS ICLR ICML etc.).
• Strong coding skills (Python Pytorch Slurm Linux).
• Experience with large-scale data (preparation cleaning pre-processing training).
• Excellent scientific writing and presentation skills.
• Innovative out-of-the-box thinking.

Preferred Qualifications

• Publications in top audio conferences (ICASSP ISMIR InterSpeech etc.).
• Genuine passion for music and audio beyond ML applications.
• Comfort with iterative (and from-scratch) reimplementation and experimentation.
• Critical mindset toward established evaluation protocols.

Life at Sony Research:

Our work environment is diverse and motivated with an innovative open mindset. Sony AI is committed to building a diverse team of people with different characters stories and skillsets because we know this drives innovation and creativity. Our commitment to nurturing a friendly and supportive place of work where everyone has a sense of belonging and inclusion creates an atmosphere of learning and personal growth. We focus on achieving healthy work-life balance for our teams supported by hybrid and flexible working.

You will work on exciting projects at the cutting edge of AI that are in the realms of entertainment or for the betterment of society and you will have access to the most innovative technologies from across the Sony universe and the opportunity to partner with Sonys leading companies.

When projects are finished we publish our work and all our contributors are recognised on research pieces at top-tier conferences and in journals. You will also have access to workshops and development programs to expand your knowledge and skills. We want you to drive your career find your direction and take authorship of your personal story at Sony AI while enjoying the security and the resource-rich environment that comes with being part of a global corporation that has R&D in its DNA.

Bring your uniqueness to Sony:

We are passionate about creating a culture that promotes equity and cultivates inclusion diversity and belonging. We want employees with diverse backgrounds and perspectives that will stimulate innovation and have a direct impact on our creation of social value to fulfil Sonys purpose to fill the world with emotion through the power of creativity and technology. We want you to bring your unique self to work and help shape our culture.

Equal Opportunity:

Sony Europe is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment regardless of race colour religion gender citizenship ancestry age physical or mental disability sexual orientation gender identity medical condition or any other protected characteristics.

Disability Accommodation for Applicants to Sony Europe

Sony Europe will provide reasonable accommodation for any qualified individuals with disabilities in the application process. For reasonable accommodation requests please contact us by email at or by mail to: Sony Europe Limited Human Resources Department the Heights Brooklands Surrey KT13 0XW UK. When contacting us please indicate the position you are applying for and the accommodation required.

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