AI Research Scientist Job in Virginia 2026: $100,000+ at VCU Massey Cancer Center
Overview
The Bioinformatics Shared Resource at Virginia Commonwealth University’s Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is hiring a full-time AI Research Scientist. Based in Virginia as a hybrid position, the role merges artificial intelligence, bioinformatics, and software engineering to accelerate cancer research. The position is part of the center's efforts to advance cancer genomics, spatial biology, and precision oncology while building the infrastructure for the Data to Discovery initiative.
Requirements
Applicants must hold a Ph.D. in bioinformatics, computer science, biomedical informatics, computational biology, artificial intelligence, data science, or a closely related field, or possess an equivalent combination of education, experience, and training. Required qualifications include a minimum of two years of experience in machine learning and deep learning, as well as at least two years of experience working with large language models involving evaluation, prompt design, retrieval-augmented generation, fine-tuning, agentic systems, or deployment. Candidates must demonstrate strong Python programming skills, familiarity with frameworks such as PyTorch, TensorFlow, or JAX, and experience deploying models on high-performance computing clusters or cloud environments. Modern software development skills including backend services, APIs, databases, containers, and version control are required, alongside the ability to work independently in a multidisciplinary setting and communicate technical concepts clearly.
Preferred backgrounds include the application of AI to cancer genomics, single-cell data, spatial omics, imaging, or digital pathology, as well as familiarity with biomedical foundation models, multimodal learning, graph neural networks, and agentic AI systems.
What you get
The position offers a starting salary of $100,000 or more, depending on experience. Full-time staff members receive a comprehensive benefits package that includes 28 vacation days, 12 or more state holidays, four volunteer days, and medical, dental, and vision coverage with an optional flexible spending account. Additional offerings include participation in the Virginia Retirement System, retirement savings options, tuition support of up to six credits per semester, parental and caregiver leave, short-term and long-term disability insurance, and an Employee Assistance Program. Employees also receive professional development support for certifications, courses, conferences, and mentorship.
How to apply
Interested candidates should access the official VCU careers page for Job ID 45002428 to review the full details and submit an online application along with a CV. Applicants who were referred by a current Massey employee should indicate the referral in their application. Questions regarding the position can be directed to Massey HR via email.