Location: Cambridge MA (remote option is possible but must have a US work visa/authorization)
Position Type: Part-time, Temporary
Compensation: part-time 10 – 20 hours/week, hourly rate dependent on experience.
Duration: Fall 2024
Job Description:
We are seeking a highly motivated and talented graduate student with expertise in Data Science and Machine Learning to join our research team for a short-term research project. The primary focus of this position is to develop predictive models that can forecast preferences and ratings based on image data, in the context of an on-going design study on the aesthetic perception of wall and floor tiles. This role will provide an excellent opportunity to apply advanced machine learning techniques to a practical problem while contributing to cutting-edge research. This work is part of the Laboratory of Design Technologies and the Material Processes and Systems Group at the Harvard Graduate School of Design.
Key Responsibilities:
• Model Development: Design and implement machine learning models to predict user preferences and ratings from image data.
• Data Processing: Clean, preprocess, and augment mid-size datasets of images to prepare them for model training and evaluation.
• Model Training and Evaluation: Train, validate, and tune models to ensure high accuracy and robustness. Conduct performance evaluations using appropriate metrics.
• Research Documentation: Document methodologies, experiments, and results in a clear and concise manner for both internal use and potential publication.
• Collaboration: Work closely with interdisciplinary team members including designers, architects, industry experts, and supervisors to refine models and achieve research goals.
• Literature Review: Stay updated with recent advancements and trends in machine learning and related fields to incorporate best practices into the project.
Required Qualifications:
• Education: Currently enrolled in, or recent graduate of a graduate program (Master’s or Ph.D.) in Data Science, Computer Science, Machine Learning, or a closely related field.
• Technical Skills:
o Proficiency in machine learning frameworks such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, or Keras.
o Strong programming skills in Python.
• Analytical Skills: Strong understanding of statistical and machine learning algorithms, including supervised and unsupervised techniques.
• Research Experience: Proven experience in conducting research projects, with a strong emphasis on machine learning or data science.
• Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to work independently and in a team environment.

Preferred Qualifications:
• Experience with deep learning frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch).
• Experience with computer vision techniques and libraries such as OpenCV, scikit-image, or similar.
• Publications or significant coursework in machine learning, computer vision, or related areas.
• Familiarity with data visualization tools and techniques.
Application Process:
Interested candidates should submit the following documents:
1. Resume/CV: Detailing relevant educational background and research experience.
2. Statement: Explaining your interest in the position and highlighting any specific expertise that aligns with the job description. Max. 250 words.
3. References: Contact information for at least one academic or professional reference.
Please send your application materials to [email protected] by September 15th 2024.