Principal Applied Researcher

Who you are

You have a Ph.D. in Computer Science, Machine Learning, NLP, Statistics, or a related field, or equivalent industry experience delivering production AI systems. Your expertise in Generative AI and LLM architectures is complemented by a strong understanding of advanced NLP systems. You thrive in environments where ambiguity, scale, and cutting-edge innovation intersect, and you have a proven track record of taking novel ideas from research inception to production deployment.

Your deep knowledge of deep learning and modern NLP, including transformer architectures and foundation model adaptation, sets you apart. You have hands-on experience with LLM model development, including fine-tuning, instruction tuning, and prompt engineering for domain-specific reasoning. Proficiency in Python and ML frameworks such as PyTorch or TensorFlow is essential, along with experience deploying models in production systems.

You possess a strong understanding of distributed data processing systems, which allows you to effectively manage large-scale data challenges. Your scientific rigor and commitment to excellence drive you to push the boundaries of what’s possible in AI research and application.

Desirable

Experience with cloud platforms and tools for deploying machine learning models is a plus. Familiarity with data processing frameworks and a collaborative mindset will help you succeed in this role.

What you'll do

In this role, you will lead research initiatives that leverage Generative AI and large language models to enhance user experiences across Apple Services. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams to design and implement innovative solutions that transform how users engage with Apple’s ecosystem. Your work will directly impact the development of personalized recommendations and proactive intelligence systems.

You will be responsible for conducting cutting-edge research and translating findings into practical applications. This includes developing and optimizing machine learning models, experimenting with new algorithms, and refining existing systems to improve performance and scalability. Your contributions will help shape the future of AI at Apple, ensuring that our technologies remain at the forefront of the industry.

You will also mentor junior researchers and engineers, fostering a culture of learning and innovation within the team. Your leadership will guide the team in navigating complex challenges and achieving ambitious goals.

What we offer

Apple is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. We offer competitive compensation and benefits, including opportunities for professional development and growth. You will work in a collaborative environment that encourages creativity and innovation, allowing you to make a meaningful impact on millions of users worldwide.

Join us at Apple, where you will not only push the boundaries of what’s possible today but also define what’s next in the world of AI and machine learning.