Job Description

Staff Research Scientist - Video & Audio Generative AI

Join to apply for the Staff Research Scientist - Video & Audio Generative AI role at Canva

Overview

At Canva, were building a future powered by AI thats as magical as it is impactful. As a Staff Research Scientist , youll shape that future by pushing the boundaries of foundational models and leading research that translates into practical, scalable impact. This role blends hands-on model development with strategic research leadership from exploring new architectures to influencing product direction through scientific breakthroughs. Youll operate at the intersection of innovation and impact, helping set our long-term AI research agenda while ensuring our work lands in the hands of millions of users around the world.

What Youll Do

• Lead high-impact research initiatives that drive the development of foundational models across Canvas AI domains
• Design and execute experiments to validate hypotheses, optimize model behavior, and measure real-world performance
• Translate theoretical research and papers into robust, production-ready implementations
• Develop novel model architectures and training methodologies that advance state-of-the-art outcomes
• Partner closely with ML Engineers to scale models and integrate them into Canvas product ecosystem
• Shape our research roadmap by identifying emerging trends, technologies, and open challenges
• Share your knowledge internally through documentation and cross-team collaborations, and externally through papers or talks where appropriate

Who You Are

Youre someone who thrives in ambiguity, loves connecting deep research with product application, and has a proven track record of driving scientific and technical excellence at scale. You can balance the long-term vision with practical delivery influencing roadmaps, mentoring others, and making bold research bets when needed.

What Youll Learn And How Youll Grow

• Deep involvement in Canvas long-term AI strategy and foundational model direction
• Opportunities to mentor and level up our research community
• Exposure to product impact at global scale (hundreds of millions of users)
• Dedicated time for self-driven research exploration and experimentation

Additional Information

Whats in it for you? Achieving our big goals motivates us to work hard, and youll experience moments of magic, connectivity and fun at Canva. We offer a range of benefits to support you inside and outside of work.

• Equity packages
• Health benefits plans
• 401(k) retirement plan with company contribution
• Inclusive parental leave policy for all parents & carers
• Annual Vibe & Thrive allowance for wellbeing, social connection, office setup & more
• Flexible leave options to recharge and support you personally

Check out lifeatcanva.com for more information.

Other Stuff To Know We make hiring decisions based on your experience, skills and passion, as well as how you can enhance Canva and our culture. When you apply, please tell us the pronouns you use and any reasonable adjustments you may need during the interview process. We value fairness and offer competitive, market-informed compensation while maintaining internal equity. The target base salary range for this position is $280,000 - $330,000. Interviews are predominantly conducted virtually.

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