Principal Machine Learning Scientist

Austin, TX · DISCO Headquarters - Austin · 15+ years experience · Posted Oct 12, 2026

At a glance

DISCO provides a cloud-native, artificial intelligence-powered legal solution that simplifies ediscovery, legal document review and case management for enterprises, law firms, legal services providers and governments. Our scalable, integrated solution enables legal departments to easily collect, process and review enterprise data that is relevant or potentially relevant to legal matters.
At DISCO, we believe AI is a core enabler of how work gets done. All employees are expected to proactively adopt and responsibly use AI tools to drive efficiency, improve outcomes, and continuously evolve how they operate in their role.
Are you ready to help us fulfill our mission to use technology to strengthen the rule of law? Join us!
We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

The Principal Machine Learning Research Scientist helps lead and shape the strategic direction of DISCO’s machine learning and AI research initiatives.
They are a seasoned researcher with a proven track record in impactful research, innovation, and leadership.
They drive the development of advanced algorithms, optimize research processes, and collaborate across teams to have a meaningful impact on industry challenges.

Leads impactful machine learning research projects, drives innovation in algorithm development and methodologies, and provides strategic direction for the organization's research agenda.
Optimizes research processes, workflows, and resource allocation while managing large-scale research programs and overseeing multiple projects and teams.
Ensures the successful execution of complex research initiatives.
Collaborates effectively with cross-functional teams and external partners.
Engages with industry stakeholders to understand and address real-world challenges and drives the application of machine learning solutions.
Develops and executes strategic plans for the organization's research initiatives and contributes to long-term research strategies.
Actively participates in the broader research community.
Mentors and provides guidance to junior and mid-level researchers.
Leads and manages research teams, fostering a culture of knowledge-sharing and innovation while contributing to the professional development of team members.

Proven track record of impactful research and leadership in large-scale projects.
Demonstrated leadership in driving innovative machine learning research.
Proven ability to lead and guide research teams toward groundbreaking contributions and advancements.
Expertise in developing and executing strategic plans for an organization's overarching machine learning research agenda.
Leadership in fostering a culture of knowledge-sharing and innovation within the research team.
Recognition for external contributions to the broader machine learning research community.
Thought leadership demonstrated through publications, keynote presentations, or participation in industry conferences.
Proven track record of making a significant impact by applying machine learning research to real-world industry problems.
Strong collaboration skills, including effective engagement with industry partners and stakeholders.

Operational leadership in optimizing research processes.
Extensive experience in program management and overseeing multifaceted initiatives.