Research Principal Engineer, Machine Learning

AI/ML Transformation Leadership

• Identify high-value opportunities where AI/ML can accelerate research, reduce cost, expand design space, or improve decision-making in Global Research processes
• Source and configure AI/ML capabilities into existing research and engineering workflows, including mechanical and electrical engineering design, chemistry and other scientific research and software and algorithm development
• Support the use of AI/ML to unlock institutional knowledge from internal data and documentation
• Establish best practices, standards, and metrics to ensure successful and measurable AI/ML adoption
• Help establish training materials, documentation, and ongoing learning programs to sustain long-term capability growth

AI/ML Research Leadership

• Apply advanced techniques such as Bayesian optimization, surrogate modeling, generative modeling, and data-driven experimental design
• Serve as technical lead or team lead for key AI/ML applied research projects spanning multiple Waters technology platforms
• Mentor scientists, engineers, interns, and members of the AI/ML champion network, spanning Global Research sites in Milford, MA, Wilmslow, UK, and Bangalore, India

• PhD or MS in Machine Learning, Computer Science, Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, or a related quantitative discipline, or equivalent industry experience
• 8+ years of experience applying machine learning in research, engineering, or advanced technology development environments
• 1+ years of experience learning cutting edge AI technologies and optimizing software development, engineering design or other discipline with on market and/or custom AI capabilities

Technical Skills

• Expertise in machine learning and applied data science
• Strong proficiency in Python and common ML frameworks (e.g., PyTorch, TensorFlow, scikit-learn)
• Experience building end-to-end ML pipelines, including data preparation, modeling, validation, and deployment

Leadership & Collaboration

• Demonstrated ability to lead complex technical initiatives and influence senior scientists and engineers
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to explain AI and ML concepts to non-ML audiences
• Experience mentoring and guiding cross-functional teams

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with scientific instrumentation, chemistry, or life sciences
• Prior experience leveraging AI/ML within R&D organization processes
• Familiarity with change management in technical or research settings

In addition to serving as the senior AI/ML technical authority within Global Research, this individual will act as a Team Lead for key research programs within the Global Research portfolio, providing technical direction, mentoring, and hands-on leadership for high-impact, AI-enabled research initiatives. The role requires close collaboration with scientists and engineers globally and a strong on-site presence in Milford, MA to enable effective change management and sustained adoption., Waters Corporation (NYSE:WAT) is a global leader in life sciences and diagnostics, dedicated to accelerating the benefits of pioneering science through analytical technologies, informatics, and service. With a focus on regulated, high-volume testing environments, our innovative portfolio harnesses deep scientific expertise across chemistry, physics, and biology. We collaborate with customers around the world to advance the release of effective, high-quality medicines, ensure the safety of food and water, and drive better patient outcomes by detecting diseases earlier, managing routine infections, and combating antibiotic resistance. Through a shared culture of relentless innovation, our passionate team of ~16,000 colleagues turn scientific challenges into breakthroughs that improve lives worldwide.