Research Scientist

Reposted 25 Days Ago
Be an Early Applicant
Emeryville, CA, USA
In-Office
163K-211K Annually
Mid level
Digital Media • News + Entertainment
The Role
Conduct research in computer graphics and AI, develop algorithms for film productions, collaborate on production challenges, and publish results in journals.
Summary Generated by Built In
Conduct world-class research in computer graphics and AI to develop innovative solutions for Pixar and Disney film productions. This role bridges the gap between academic research and practical studio application.

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:

  • Education: Ph.D. in Computer Science, AI, or a related field.

  • Experience: 2+ years of post-graduate research experience in academia or industry R&D.

  • Track Record: Sustained history of original research and publications in top-tier forums (ACM SIGGRAPH, CVPR, NeurIPS) and recognized leadership in the field.

  • Technical Skills: 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 $162,945.00 to $210,870.00 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.

Pixar is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We know our storytelling is at its best when we include, celebrate and embrace difference. We strive to be a diverse workforce that is representative of our audiences, and where all can thrive and belong. We are committed to building a team that includes and respects a variety of voices, identities, backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Pixar participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.

Skills Required

  • Ph.D. in Computer Science, AI, or related field
  • 2+ years of post-graduate research experience
  • Sustained history of original research and publications
  • Deep expertise in graphics/AI and solid coding skills

Pixar Animation Studios Compensation & Benefits Highlights

The following summarizes recurring compensation and benefits themes identified from responses generated by popular LLMs to common candidate questions about Pixar Animation Studios and has not been reviewed or approved by Pixar Animation Studios.

  • Healthcare Strength Medical, dental, and vision coverage are provided alongside life, short‑term disability, and long‑term disability insurance. The benefits package is described as comprehensive and attractive.
  • Leave & Time Off Breadth Paid holidays, paid sick leave, and PTO are included, with many receiving around 20–30 days and some longer‑tenured staff reporting unlimited paid days. Time off is treated as a core element of the package.
  • Wellbeing & Lifestyle Benefits Perks include a casual dress environment, free drinks, on‑site wellness resources and fitness facilities, studio events and screenings, commuter assistance, and Disney‑related discounts. These amenities add meaningful non‑cash value to total rewards.

Pixar Animation Studios Insights

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The Company
Emeryville, , California
3,506 Employees

What We Do

Pixar Animation Studios, a wholly owned subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company, is an Academy Award®-winning film studio with world-renowned technical, creative and production capabilities in the art of computer animation. The Northern California studio has created some of the most successful and beloved animated films of all time, including “Toy Story,” “Monsters, Inc.,” “Cars,” “The Incredibles,” “Ratatouille,” “WALL•E,” “Up,” “Brave,” “Inside Out,” “Coco” and “Turning Red.” Its movies and technology have won 40 Academy Awards® and the films have grossed more than $14 billion at the worldwide box office. "Inside Out 2," Pixar's 28th feature, released in theaters June 14, 2024. Pixar's objective is to combine groundbreaking technology and world-class creative talent to develop computer-animated films with memorable characters and heartwarming stories that appeal to audiences of all ages. Careers Page: http://www.pixar.com/careers

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