Research Manager, Multimodal Reasoning - SIML

Summary

The System Intelligence and Machine Learning (SIML) Content Understanding team is seeking a Senior Research Manager in Multimodal Reasoning. You will be working alonside teams that are in charge of operating system wide embeddings, personalized RAG workstreams, tool calling, context compaction / efficiency & memory systems. Projects are focussed on advancing Apple Intelligence capabilities, while working closely across disciplines with our partners in hardware engineering, design and product.

Selected references to our prior work:
(a) https://arxiv.org/pdf/2507.13575
(b) https://arxiv.org/pdf/2407.21075
(c) https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2024/12/apple-intelligence-now-features-image-playground-genmoji-and-more/

Description

We are seeking a senior applied research leader in multimodal reasoning. The role expects fluency in algorithm development and computation, ability to set up future facing research investigations, and leading cross functional teams on company wide efforts. Key attributes expected in the role is fluency with state of art LLM workflows (prompt optimization, post training / alignment, automatic evaluation, distributed training & inference).

The role includes the opportunity to partner with world class system engineers to prototype and incorporate bleeding edge algorithmic innovations in the context of emerging agentic experiences. Ability to interface with large scale modeling & data infrastructure is a huge plus.

Minimum Qualifications

PhD, or MSc in Computer Science/Electrical Engineering, or a related field (mathematics, physics or computer engineering); with a focus on machine learning, or comparable professional experience
Strong ML and Generative Modeling fundamentals
3+ years of experience leading and growing high-performing machine learning teams of individual contributors.
Strong expertise in one of the following: Reinforcement Learning, Multimodal Training, Pre-training / Post-training foundation models
Proficiency in using ML toolkits, e.g., PyTorch
Proven track record of research contributions demonstrated through publications in top-tier conferences, or open source contributions to algorithm

Preferred Qualifications

Experienced in leading applied research efforts in Multimodal-LLMs
Track Record in transitioning applied research initiatives to customer facing experiences
Familiarity with distributed training and large-scale data infrastructure

Pay & Benefits — Cupertino, California, United States

At Apple, base pay is one part of our total compensation package and is determined within a range. This provides the opportunity to progress as you grow and develop within a role. The base pay range for this role is between $237,600 and $356,400, and your base pay will depend on your skills, qualifications, experience, and location.

Apple employees also have the opportunity to become an Apple shareholder through participation in Apple’s discretionary employee stock programs. Apple employees are eligible for discretionary restricted stock unit awards, and can purchase Apple stock at a discount if voluntarily participating in Apple’s Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You’ll also receive benefits including: Comprehensive medical and dental coverage, retirement benefits, a range of discounted products and free services, and for formal education related to advancing your career at Apple, reimbursement for certain educational expenses — including tuition. Additionally, this role might be eligible for discretionary bonuses or commission payments as well as relocation. Learn more about Apple Benefits

Note: Apple benefit, compensation and employee stock programs are subject to eligibility requirements and other terms of the applicable plan or program.

Application Deadline

Apple accepts applications to this posting on an ongoing basis.

Pay & Benefits — Seattle, Washington, United States

At Apple, base pay is one part of our total compensation package and is determined within a range. This provides the opportunity to progress as you grow and develop within a role. The base pay range for this role is between $225,600 and $338,400, and your base pay will depend on your skills, qualifications, experience, and location.

Apple employees also have the opportunity to become an Apple shareholder through participation in Apple’s discretionary employee stock programs. Apple employees are eligible for discretionary restricted stock unit awards, and can purchase Apple stock at a discount if voluntarily participating in Apple’s Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You’ll also receive benefits including: Comprehensive medical and dental coverage, retirement benefits, a range of discounted products and free services, and for formal education related to advancing your career at Apple, reimbursement for certain educational expenses — including tuition. Additionally, this role might be eligible for discretionary bonuses or commission payments as well as relocation. Learn more about Apple Benefits

Note: Apple benefit, compensation and employee stock programs are subject to eligibility requirements and other terms of the applicable plan or program.