Software Engineer, PhD, Early Career, AI/Machine Learning, 2026 Start

Google is seeking PhD Software Engineers to join their team developing next-generation AI/ML technologies. This role offers an opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects that impact billions of users worldwide. As a PhD Software Engineer, you'll leverage your research expertise to design and develop advanced ML systems across the full technology stack.

The position involves collaborating with teams across Google's major product areas including AI & Infrastructure, Cloud, YouTube, Search, and Ads. You'll be working in a large-scale distributed environment, building end-to-end ML systems from low-level hardware acceleration to high-level model architectures and APIs.

The ideal candidate will have deep knowledge of ML/AI, experience with deep learning frameworks like TensorFlow/JAX/PyTorch, and strong programming skills. You'll have the chance to optimize complex systems, conduct research, and transform theoretical concepts into robust, scalable products that solve real-world problems.

Google offers competitive compensation including base salary, bonus, equity, and comprehensive benefits. The company has a strong commitment to diversity, equality and inclusion, fostering a collaborative environment where PhDs can apply their research expertise to meaningful technical challenges.

This is an early career role starting in 2026, perfect for PhD graduates looking to transition their academic ML/AI expertise into impactful industry applications. You'll join thousands of PhDs at Google who are pushing the boundaries of technology while having opportunities to learn, grow, and follow your interests across different projects and teams.