AI Research Lead

AI Research Lead The AI Research Lead drives applied AI research and rapid experimentation to help AP discover, validate and pilot new opportunities to bring AI capabilities to our journalism and business operations. This role bridges applied research, rapid experimentation, and early-stage product development to keep AP at the forefront of AI in news. This is an individual contributor position and will have no direct reports. What you will do: Stay abreast of artificial intelligence research and product development and help to translate these developments into opportunities for AP. Evaluate potential technology, startup and academic partners; conduct lightweight technical due diligence on capability, cost, IP and risk. Scout and prioritize AI use cases across newsroom and business workflows in collaboration with editorial, product and technology stakeholders. Rapidly design and build proofs of concept using Python and modern ML/LLM tooling; run experiments and evaluations to prove value and ensure quality and operational fit. Coordinate with contract developers and external partners to build pilots and MVPs: define requirements, review deliverables and manage timelines. Plan and execute internal and external pilots; collect user feedback, measure impact and iterate based on results. Apply responsible AI practices throughout experimentation and pilots, including data privacy, copyright/IP protection, maintaining system guardrails and safety/quality evaluation. Create clear handoff documentation and partner with Product and Engineering to assist the transition from pilot to production application. Define and track project success metrics; document and communicate lessons learned with internal and external audiences. Who you are: Minimum 2 years' experience in data science, machine learning or a related technical innovation role or advanced degree in a related field. Hands-on experience translating emerging AI technologies into applied prototypes and pilot projects. Demonstrated understanding of large language models, generative AI, and related tools and frameworks. Strong technical proficiency in Python or similar programming languages, and experience using AI-assisted coding tools. Experience deploying prototypes on cloud infrastructure (AWS preferred). Working knowledge of software engineering fundamentals (APIs, version control, code review) and experience collaborating with engineers and contractors. Excellent collaboration and communication skills, with experience working across technical and non-technical teams. Ability to apply (or quickly learn and apply) responsible AI and data governance considerations in real-world products. What will set you apart: Commitment to continuous learning, a hands-on approach to exploring new technologies and enthusiasm for sharing what you have learned with others. Experience executing user-facing pilots and translating prototype learnings into clear requirements, documentation and handoff materials. Familiarity with newsroom, content or publishing workflows, or experience building tools for media and information products. Why join us: A mission-driven, inclusive environment focused on both individual and collective success. Opportunities for professional development to help you reach your career goals. Access to tools, mentorship, and resources tailored to elevate your proficiency and contributions. Salary & Benefits: The anticipated salary range for this position is $96,000$104,000, based on a candidate's skills, qualifications, and location. This hybrid role may be performed from any Associated Press office location, including New York, NY; Washington, D.C.; Chicago, IL; or Los Angeles, CA. The Associated Press offers comprehensive benefits, which include: Competitive medical, dental and vision coverage Retirement benefits Company paid life insurance Paid vacation and sick days Paid parental leave for any new parent Mental well-being resources Application deadline is January 30, 2026, at 11:59p.m. ET. AP seeks to build an inclusive organization grounded in respect for differences. We support all aspects of diversity and provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, marital status, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, status as a veteran, or other characteristic protected by law.