Microsoft’s Applied Sciences Group UK is seeking an innovative and experienced **Senior Applied Scientist** to advance state-of-the-art generative methods, including diffusion and auto-regressive models, for image and video generation. Our team is at the forefront in redefining the PC with Copilot+—AI-powered Windows devices that are intelligent, secure, and efficient. With features like real-time translation and natural interaction, we’re building a faster, more intuitive, and human-centric computing future. The successful candidate will lead the development and optimization of generative AI technologies, pushing the boundaries of visual content creation. This role is ideal for individuals passionate about applied deep learning research, performance optimization on Neural Processing Units (NPUs), and delivering impactful solutions. We expect you to be a hands-on researcher with excellent analytical skills and an intrinsic drive to overcome obstacles. You will collaborate closely with a diverse team to deliver high-quality, maintainable solutions in a dynamic environment. Microsoft’s mission is to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more. As employees we come together with a growth mindset, innovate to empower others, and collaborate to realize our shared goals. Each day we build on our values of respect, integrity, and accountability to create a culture of inclusion where everyone can thrive at work and beyond. **Responsibilities** + Research, design, and implement state-of-the-art generative models (diffusion, auto-regressive, etc.) for high-quality image and video generation. + Optimize deep neural networks for deployment on Neural Processing Units (NPUs), maximizing efficiency and performance. + Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including researchers, engineers, and product teams, to integrate developed technologies into Microsoft’s products and services. + Publish groundbreaking research results in top-tier conferences and journals, contributing actively to the scientific community. + Mentor junior scientists and interns, fostering a collaborative and innovative research environment. **Qualifications** **Required Qualifications:** + Bachelor's Degree in Statistics, Econometrics, Computer Science, Electrical or Computer Engineering, or related field AND related experience (e.g., statistics predictive analytics, research) + OR Master's Degree in Statistics, Econometrics, Computer Science, Electrical or Computer Engineering, or related field AND related experience (e.g., statistics, predictive analytics, research) + OR Doctorate in Statistics, Econometrics, Computer Science, Electrical or Computer Engineering, or related field AND related experience (e.g., statistics, predictive analytics, research) + OR equivalent experience. + Proven experience developing and optimizing generative models, particularly diffusion and auto-regressive models, for image and video applications. + Strong track record of optimizing neural network architectures specifically for NPUs or other hardware accelerators. + Proficiency in Python and deep learning frameworks (e.g., PyTorch, TensorFlow). + Excellent analytical, communication, and collaborative skills. **Preferred Qualifications:** + Industry experience delivering real-world generative AI solutions. + Knowledge of hardware-aware model optimization techniques. + Experience with large-scale distributed training and deployment. + Experience with AML/ADO pipelines. + Knowledge of ML model optimization techniques. + Demonstrated ability to publish impactful research in leading AI/ML conferences such as CVPR, ICCV, NeurIPS, ICML, or similar. \#W+Djobs Microsoft is an equal opportunity employer. Consistent with applicable law, all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, citizenship, color, family or medical care leave, gender identity or expression, genetic information, immigration status, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical or mental disability, political affiliation, protected veteran or military status, race, ethnicity, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable local laws, regulations and ordinances. If you need assistance and/or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application process, read more about requesting accommodations (https://careers.microsoft.com/v2/global/en/accessibility.html) .