Senior Research Scientist
Pixar
Emeryville, CA · Posted March 17, 2026
Just laid off? Start here: a plan for the first weeks
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Where Emeryville, CA ranks
Where Emeryville, CA placed in our monthly rankings, month by month. Each month stays online at its own address.
November 2026
- #4Best cities for director and executive jobs in the West Coast27% · of 71
- #7Best all-round cities for new graduates in the West Coast61 / 100 · of 39
- #11Best cities for pay after cost of living in California$172k · of 32
- #13Best cities for pay after cost of living in the West Coast$172k · of 39
- #19Cities with the most hybrid jobs in the West Coast14% · of 66
- #20Best cities for junior jobs in California27% · of 54
Pay compared with the market
This listing does not state pay. Across 30 open senior research scientist listings that state pay, the middle half runs $147,000 to $240,500 and the median is $206,500.
Listed pay is what employers advertise, not what people are paid.
Senior Research Scientist salaries by state · Check your own pay
How AI is used in this kind of work
AI use among medical scientists, except epidemiologists is little observed so far. Measured exposure for medical scientists, except epidemiologists: 4% (little observed).
Share of this job’s tasks that AI is already used for at work, from real usage. It is not a forecast of job loss, and a low number means no use seen yet. Source: Anthropic Economic Index.
Pixar has filed one layoff notice in the last twelve months, covering 108 workers, most recently July 2026. These are public filings with state labor departments, and an open role can sit alongside them. See the filings
About the job
Conduct world-class research in computer graphics and AI to develop innovative solutions for Pixar and Disney movie productions. This role bridges the gap between academic research and practical studio application.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Research & Innovation: Identify and solve complex graphics/AI problems; design, develop, and deploy scalable algorithms and prototype software.
Production Collaboration: Work directly with artists, technical directors, and engineers to address real-world production challenges under tight deadlines.
Leadership & Publication: Lead research projects, publish results in peer-reviewed journals (e.g., SIGGRAPH), and maintain Pixar’s presence in the global research community.
Strategy: Stay current on emerging technologies and provide recommendations for studio adoption.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Demonstrated leadership in the computer graphics or closely related research communities
Ph.D. in Computer Science, AI, or a related field
7+ years of post-graduate research experience in academia or industry R&D
Sustained history of original research and publications in top-tier forums (ACM SIGGRAPH, CVPR, NeurIPS) and recognized leadership in the field
Deep expertise in at least one area of graphics/AI, solid coding skills, and the ability to analyze cutting-edge technologies
SKILLS:
Excellent communication and collaboration skills across diverse roles (artists to executives)
Ability to manage multiple tasks independently and within a team
Strong presentation and technical writing capabilities
Commitment to diverse perspectives and collaborative innovation
The hiring range for this position in Emeryville is $219,980.00 to $284,680.00 per year. The base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and also may vary depending on the candidate’s geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors.
Pixar is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We know our storytelling is at its best when we include, celebrate and embrace difference. We strive to be a diverse workforce that is representative of our audiences, and where all can thrive and belong. We are committed to building a team that includes and respects a variety of voices, identities, backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Pixar participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.