Lead AI Researcher (Hybrid)

The application window is expected to close on: 09/14/2026 Job posting may be removed earlier if the position is filled or if a sufficient number of applications are received . This is a hybrid role based out of Cisco's Seattle or San Jose office. Meet the Team The Cisco AI Research team is a dynamic group of scientists and engineers dedicated to building the future of proprietary intelligence. Our core mission is to develop purpose-built large language models tailored specifically for Cisco’s networking, security, and observability domains. We operate at the intersection of basic and applied research, ensuring that Cisco maintains its technological edge without reliance on external AI providers. Our team is composed of doers and experts who thrive in a collaborative environment, blending deep technical rigor with a shared passion for solving complex, real-world problems at a global scale.

As a Lead AI Researcher, you will serve as a foundational architect for Cisco’s proprietary intelligence, directly influencing how we secure and automate the global network. You will bridge the gap between cutting-edge generative AI research and real-world infrastructure, moving beyond standard fine-tuning to lead high-stakes, end-to-end pre-training initiatives. This role offers the unique opportunity to define the future of networking by building models that are purpose-built for Cisco’s massive scale and unique security requirements. By tackling the most complex challenges in foundation model development, you will ensure our technology remains at the forefront of the AI era, directly impacting the performance and intelligence of the world’s digital backbone. Lead the development of purpose-built large language models to secure and optimize Cisco’s proprietary networking, security, data center, and observability infrastructure. Drive advanced pre-training initiatives to build foundational models that provide unique, competitive value across our product portfolio. Conduct innovative research in generative AI to improve model capabilities for networking automation and human-computer interaction. Collaborate with cross-functional teams of engineers and strategists to integrate research breakthroughs into tangible business solutions. Establish Cisco as a global thought leader by publishing research in top-tier AI venues and contributing to the broader scientific community.

Bachelor’s degree in STEM with 12+ years of experience or a Master’s degree in STEM with 8+ years of experience, or a PhD in STEM or a related technical field with 5+ years of relevant research experience, Experience leading or contributing to at least one full-cycle pre-training, distillation based pre-training or continual pre-training project for a Large Language Model (LLM) or foundational model, including dataset curation, tokenization strategy, and training pipeline execution. Minimum of 3 peer-reviewed publications in top-tier AI venues such as ACL, EMNLP, ICLR, ICML, NAACL, or NeurIPS. 3+ years of experience utilizing PyTorch or TensorFlow to implement and train models on distributed computing clusters (e.g., environments utilizing 100+ GPUs).  2+ years of experience applying machine learning models to networking, data center, security, or observability datasets to solve complex system-level problems.

Experience working in an industrial research lab environment, driving projects from conceptual research to practical application. Subject matter expertise in networking, cybersecurity, or observability, and the ability to apply AI to these complex domains. Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to influence technical direction and build consensus among stakeholders. Proven ability to translate abstract research findings into innovative, scalable product features. Why Cisco?  At Cisco, we’re revolutionizing how data and infrastructure connect