Postdoctoral Fellow in Computer Science — From Theory to Practice: Reinforcement Learning for Large Scale Foundation Model Post‑Training

Harvard University, United States

Updated: about 12 hours ago
Location: Cambridge, MASSACHUSETTS
Deadline: ;

Details


Title Postdoctoral Fellow in Computer Science — From Theory to Practice: Reinforcement Learning for Large Scale Foundation Model Post‑Training
School Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences
Department/Area Kempner Institute and Computer Science
Position Description
We invite applications for a Postdoctoral Fellow to work with Assistant Professor Kianté Brantley at Harvard SEAS and the Kempner Institute. The lab’s research focuses on improving the capabilities of foundation models using reinforcement learning—from theory to practice. This position will emphasize large‑scale reinforcement learning for post‑training, studying both practical and theoretical issues pertaining to post‑training techniques.
Successful candidates must be able to work as part of a team performing research to support the project. Additional responsibilities include preparing publications and reports, mentoring graduate students, and collaborating with other groups. Successful candidates will be self-motivated, have a strong work ethic, be technically skilled, and have strong oral and written skills. Start dates are flexible, but the positions will be filled as soon as possible and will initially be for one year, renewable for additional years following performance review and funding availability.
Basic Qualifications
Ph.D. in computer science, applied physics, applied math, or a related discipline.
Additional Qualifications
Individuals with a demonstrated track record in scientific research, which can be evidenced through publications, technical reports, or impactful software projects.
Special Instructions
A complete application must include a curriculum vitae, 2–5 letters of reference, 2 publication samples, and a 1–2‑page research statement. In your cover letter, please also address the following supplemental questions: (1) What sorts of projects would you like to carry out in the lab? (2) What are your greatest strengths, and what areas would you like to improve?
Contact Information
Anana Charles, Faculty Coordinator
Contact Email acharles@seas.harvard.edu
Salary Range
$67,600 – $91,826
Pay offered to the selected candidate is dependent on factors such as rank, years of experience, training or qualification, field of scholarship, and accomplishments in the field.
Minimum Number of References Required 2
Maximum Number of References Allowed 3
Keywords
Machine Learning
Reinforcement Learning
Foundational Models
Post-Training
Large Language Models

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