Research Scientist jobs in United States
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Upstart · 3 hours ago

Research Scientist

Upstart is the leading AI lending marketplace that partners with banks and credit unions to enhance access to affordable credit. The Research Scientist will work on developing and deploying machine learning models to improve predictions related to borrower risk and marketing conversions, collaborating with cross-functional teams to optimize business outcomes.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)AutomotiveConsumer LendingCreditFinancial ServicesFinTechLendingMachine LearningPersonal Finance
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H1B Sponsor Likelynote

Responsibilities

Research and develop new machine learning models to enhance the accuracy of predictions in borrower risk, marketing conversions, or underwriting processes
Design, prototype, and deploy models to production, ensuring robust and scalable implementations
Collaborate cross-functionally with engineers, product managers, and marketing specialists to experiment with and optimize models for business outcomes
Evaluate the performance of models, interpret their impact on business metrics, and present actionable insights to stakeholders
Continuously explore novel algorithms and methodologies to keep Upstart’s ML systems at the cutting edge of technology
Mentor junior team members and contribute to the development of a high-quality, production-ready codebase

Qualification

Machine LearningPythonStatistical ModelingModel DeploymentData AnalysisTeam CollaborationCommunication SkillsCritical Thinking

Required

Bachelor's degree in a scientific or quantitative discipline (e.g., Math, Physics, Computer Science, Statistics, Economics, Operations Research)
2+ years of experience in Machine Learning or a similar field
Proficiency in Python or other programming languages
Strong understanding of statistical, probability, and machine learning theory
Full-stack expertise in the modeling process from ideation to production, OR deep expertise in either statistical modeling or machine learning
Ability to break down complex tasks into smaller steps and make the right tradeoffs to deliver projects on time
Ability to communicate technical concepts effectively to non-technical stakeholders
Strong sense of intellectual curiosity, humility, and teamwork

Preferred

Master's degree or PhD in a quantitative discipline (e.g., Math, Physics, Economics, Computer Science, Statistics, Operations Research)
Deep expertise in Python and experience with machine learning frameworks
Experience leading or mentoring junior members in a technical team
Proficiency in building and deploying machine learning pipelines and engineering architecture
Strong critical thinking skills and ability to develop testable hypotheses
Proven ability to meet high standards in terms of quality and velocity with minimal direction

Benefits

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
Personal Development and Technology & Ergonomic Budgets
Life insurance and disability benefits
Clubs and Activities (Game Nights, Fitstarters, Superwomen, Book Club, Investing Club, Money Discussions, Photography Club and Basketball teams)
Generous vacation policy
401(k) and Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)
Catered lunches + snacks & drinks

Company

Upstart (NASDAQ: UPST) is a leading AI lending marketplace partnering with banks and credit unions to expand access to affordable credit.

H1B Sponsorship

Upstart has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships. Please note that this does not guarantee sponsorship for this specific role. Below presents additional info for your reference. (Data Powered by US Department of Labor)
Distribution of Different Job Fields Receiving Sponsorship
Represents job field similar to this job
Trends of Total Sponsorships
2025 (48)
2024 (70)
2023 (85)
2022 (85)
2021 (42)
2020 (15)

Funding

Current Stage
Public Company
Total Funding
$3.36B
Key Investors
CastlelakeProgressiveRakuten
2025-11-06Post Ipo Debt· $1.5B
2025-09-05Post Ipo Debt· $320M
2025-08-12Post Ipo Debt· $600M

Leadership Team

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Dave Girouard
Founder & CEO
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Paul Gu
Co-Founder
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Company data provided by crunchbase