Research Scientist

THE COMPANY Our mission is to build the Covariant Brain, a universal AI to give robots the ability to see, reason and act on the world around them. Transitioning AI from lab research to the infinite variability and constant change of our customer’s real-world operations calls for new ideas, approaches, and techniques. Achieving success in the real world demands a team that reflects the world: diversity in backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences. What we have commonly between us are ambitious expectations, love of learning, empathy for those around us, and a team-first mindset. THE ROLE The Covariant Brain is a Robotics Foundation Model that powers all robotic applications at Covariant. The Brain comprises state-of-the-art models, algorithms, and APIs, enabling all intelligent behavior of the robot, from perception to 3D object understanding, grasp sampling, ranking, motion planning, and control. As a Research Scientist at Covariant, you will help us enhance the Covariant Brain to be a foundation model for robotics that can power a broader range of applications and can adapt on the fly with human inputs. YOU HAVE Strong knowledge and experience in any of the following areas: modern computer vision (including but not limited to depth estimation, segmentation, occupancy estimation, NERFs), large language models, motion planning, dynamics modeling, robotics simulation. A proven track record of innovating, or improving upon existing ideas in machine learning, demonstrated by accomplishments such as first-author publications or projects. Ability to undertake and pursue a research agenda, including the selection of impactful research problems and autonomous execution of long-running projects. A solid mathematical and statistical background with an understanding of how to apply ML concepts (e.g. training, optimizers, regression, classification, etc.). Proficiency in Python and experience with tensor libraries (e.g. NumPy, PyTorch, TensorFlow). Clear communication, organization, and collaboration. Base pay is one aspect of our total rewards package which may also include comprehensive benefits and equity, subject to eligibility. The annual base salary range for this position is from $175,000 to $275,000. The actual base pay offered will be determined on factors such as years of relevant experience, skills, education, etc. Decisions will be made on a case-by-case basis. COMPANY CORE VALUES LEARNING CONSTANTLY STRIVING FOR EMPATHY TAKING ON THE IMPOSSIBLE, TOGETHER BENEFITS (US) Health, dental, and vision insurance for you and your family. Unlimited PTO and flexible work hours. 401(k) plan and company match. Lunch and dinner each day (for on-site employees). Monthly Health & Wellness budget. Quarterly Learning budget. BENEFITS (UK) Private medical insurance coverage for you and your family. UK Holidays: 25 days + 8 Statutory (EU Countries TBC specific to region). £200 Learning budget per quarter - books, courses, etc. £35 wellness budget per month - gym membership, fitness classes, etc. Pension - 6% Personal and up to 6% company-matched. At covariant.ai we don’t just accept difference—we celebrate it, we support it, and we thrive on it for the benefit of our employees, our products, and our community. Covariant.ai is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, or Veteran status.