Research Scientist, Robotics VLAs Post-Training and Adaptation

Posted:
12/1/2025, 9:36:49 PM

Location(s):
California, United States ⋅ Los Altos, California, United States

Experience Level(s):
Mid Level ⋅ Senior

Field(s):
AI & Machine Learning ⋅ Mechanical Engineering

Workplace Type:
Hybrid

Pay:
$124/hr or $257,920 total comp

At Toyota Research Institute (TRI), we’re on a mission to improve the quality of human life. We’re developing new tools and capabilities to amplify the human experience. To lead this transformative shift in mobility, we’ve built a world-class team advancing the state of the art in AI, robotics, driving, and material sciences.

Overview
We are seeking a creative and technically strong researcher to advance post-training methods for Vision-Language-Action (VLA) models in robotics. This role focuses on improving model alignment, robustness, and adaptability in real-world robotic settings through advanced post-training and continual learning techniques. You will develop algorithms and frameworks that enable persistent learning and optimize data efficiency in embodied systems.
The pay range for this position at commencement of employment is expected to be between $176,000 and $264,000/year for California-based roles. Base pay offered will depend on multiple individualized factors, including, but not limited to, business or organizational needs, market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. TRI offers a generous benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance, 401(k) eligibility, paid time off benefits (including vacation, sick time, and parental leave), and an annual cash bonus structure. Additional details regarding these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment.

Toyota Research Institute

Website: https://www.tri.global/

Headquarter Location: Palo Alto, California, United States

Employee Count: 101-250

Year Founded: 2016

IPO Status: Private

Industries: Artificial Intelligence (AI) ⋅ Automotive ⋅ Consumer Research ⋅ Machine Learning ⋅ Product Research