Virtual Sound Director, Research Science

The Reality Labs Research Audio team aims to fundamentally transform the human experience through audio innovation. We are creating virtual sound that is perceptually indistinguishable from reality and redefining human hearing. We research and invent technologies related to sound capture, acoustic scene understanding, psychoacoustics, listener intent, sound propagation, audio rendering, the hardware breakthroughs necessary to power these technologies, and much more. The discoveries we make inform immersive and ubiquitous XR products across Meta, supporting meaningful connections to the world and people across augmented reality, mobile, virtual reality, wearable devices, and beyond.Virtual Sound Director, Research Science Responsibilities

• Research Leadership: Develop and lead a strategic research agenda focused on advancing audio technology for virtual and augmented reality applications. Identify and explore new research opportunities and applications for audio technology.
• Innovation and Development: Oversee the research and development of cutting-edge audio technologies, including machine learning algorithms, AI-driven audio processing, and the integration of large language models into audio systems.
• Team Management: Lead, mentor, and inspire a team of researchers and engineers. Foster a collaborative and innovative research environment that encourages creativity and excellence.
• Collaboration: Work closely with cross-functional teams, including product development, engineering, and design, to integrate research findings into Meta's products and services.
• Industry Engagement: Stay abreast of the latest trends and advancements in audio technology, machine learning, and AI. Represent Meta at industry conferences, workshops, and networking events.
• Quality Assurance: Ensure the highest standards of quality and performance in all research initiatives. Implement best practices for testing, validation, and continuous improvement.

Minimum Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Audio Engineering, or a related field
• 10 years of experience in audio technology research, with at least 5 years in a leadership role. Proven experience in machine learning, artificial intelligence, and large language models
• Proficiency in audio signal processing, machine learning frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch), and AI technologies. Experience with large language models and their application in audio systems
• Demonstrated ability to lead and manage a diverse team of professionals. Strong project management skills and the ability to drive research projects from concept to completion
• Verbal and written communication skills. Ability to articulate complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders

For those who live in or expect to work from California if hired for this position, please click here for additional information. About Meta Meta builds technologies that help people connect, find communities, and grow businesses. When Facebook launched in 2004, it changed the way people connect. Apps like Messenger, Instagram and WhatsApp further empowered billions around the world. Now, Meta is moving beyond 2D screens toward immersive experiences like augmented and virtual reality to help build the next evolution in social technology. People who choose to build their careers by building with us at Meta help shape a future that will take us beyond what digital connection makes possible today—beyond the constraints of screens, the limits of distance, and even the rules of physics.
$264,000/year to $342,000/year + bonus + equity + benefits

Individual compensation is determined by skills, qualifications, experience, and location. Compensation details listed in this posting reflect the base hourly rate, monthly rate, or annual salary only, and do not include bonus, equity or sales incentives, if applicable. In addition to base compensation, Meta offers benefits. Learn more about benefits at Meta.

Equal Employment Opportunity Meta is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, reproductive health decisions, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, genet