Walt Disney Company (The)

Senior Research Scientist

Emeryville, CA · US

full_time

About the role

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Research & Innovation: Identify and solve complex graphics/AI problems; design, develop, and deploy scalable algorithms and prototype software.
Production Collaboration: Work directly with artists, technical directors, and engineers to address real-world production challenges under tight deadlines.
Leadership & Publication: Lead research projects, publish results in peer-reviewed journals (e.g., SIGGRAPH), and maintain Pixar’s presence in the global research community.
Strategy: Stay current on emerging technologies and provide recommendations for studio adoption.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Demonstrated leadership in the computer graphics or closely related research communities
Ph.D. in Computer Science, AI, or a related field
7+ years of post-graduate research experience in academia or industry R&D
Sustained history of original research and publications in top-tier forums (ACM SIGGRAPH, CVPR, NeurIPS) and recognized leadership in the field
Deep expertise in at least one area of graphics/AI, solid coding skills, and the ability to analyze cutting-edge technologies

SKILLS:

Excellent communication and collaboration skills across diverse roles (artists to executives)
Ability to manage multiple tasks independently and within a team
Strong presentation and technical writing capabilities
Commitment to diverse perspectives and collaborative innovation

The hiring range for this position in Emeryville is $223,295.00 to $288,970.00 per year. The base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and also may vary depending on the candidate’s geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors.
Disclaimer

This position is with Pixar, which is part of a business we call PIXAR Animation Studios.

To learn more about Disney's guidelines on the use of AI for candidates, click here.

Pixar is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or protected veteran status. Disney champions a business environment where ideas and decisions from all people help us grow, innovate, create the best stories and be relevant in a constantly evolving world.

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The Walt Disney Company and its Affiliated Companies are Equal Employment Opportunity employers and welcome all job seekers including individuals with disabilities and veterans with disabilities. If you have a disability and believe you need a reasonable accommodation in order to search for a job opening or apply for a position, visit the Disney candidate disability accommodations FAQs. We will only respond to those requests that are related to the accessibility of the online application system due to a disability.

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