Skip to content

Biometrics and AI Research Scientist

Pasadena, California, 91107
Full Time On-site

Thales is looking for a Biometrics and AI Research Scientist in our Pasadena, California-based biometric algorithms team who will lead and conduct applied research towards the implementation and improvement of the algorithms underlying our world-class biometric product line. Research areas include biometric image quality assessment, finger friction ridge, face, iris and scars/marks/tattoo recognition, biometric fusion, and presentation attack detection.

Key Areas of Responsibility

  • Develop state-of-the-art biometric algorithms and systems for image quality assessment, recognition, fusion, and presentation attack detection

  • Evaluate and continuously improve these algorithms for biometric performance, speed, and demographic equitability

  • Validate each improvement after system integration and for the targeted scenario

  • Stay abreast of the latest scientific publications in biometrics and pertinent fields of computer vision (CV)

  • Implement and evaluate published approaches to benchmark them against our own

  • Propose new approaches for features that differentiate us from the competition 

  • Write near-production level code and practice secure coding standards

  • Collaborate closely with your team members while effectively using resources within the global organization

  • Grow into the role of a Thales-wide subject matter expert in your fields of specialization

  • Prepare submissions for internal and external technology evaluations

  • Occasionally support pre/post-sales projects

  • Secure IP by submitting patent applications

  • Shape research roadmaps in negotiations with product managers and business owners

Minimum Qualifications

  • A Master’s of Science with 3 years of experience in a relevant and technical discipline or a PhD in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field

  • First-authored publications in related conference or journal if you possess a PhD

  • At least 3 years of recent (in the last 5 years) hands on coding skills experience in C/C++ and Python in a corporate and/ or academic setting

  • Recent hands-on experience in designing, training, and deploying deep neural networks using PyTorch, Tensorflow, Onnxruntime or OpenVino

  • Prior completed-project experience in at least one of the fields: biometrics, 2D or 3D object detection & recognition, pose estimation, segmentation and texture analysis/synthesis

  • Experience in classical and deep-learning-based machine learning for CV applications,

  • A thorough understanding of the digital imaging processing

  • Prior experience in an analytical role using scientific rigor to create solutions

  • Background in stochastic signal analysis and detection, as relevant to these field

  • Ability to effortlessly switch between the big-picture and detailed view of a problem

While not required, an ideal candidate would also have:

  • Extensive knowledge of deep learning on image processing including convolutional neural network, transformer neural network, graph neural network

  • Experience in GPU programming using CUDA or OpenCL

  • Experience in developing algorithms for fingerprint recognition

  • Familiarity with concepts of cyber security

If you’re excited about working with Thales, but not meeting the requirements for this position, we encourage you to join our Talent Community!

Special Position Requirements

  • Occasional domestic or international travel to conferences, trade shows or industry events – approximately 10%

Why Join Us?

Say HI and learn more about working at Thales click here

#LI-Hybrid

#LI-RG1

This position will require successfully completing a post-offer background check. Qualified candidates with [a] criminal history will be considered and are not automatically disqualified, consistent with federal law, state law, and local ordinances.

Thales champions inclusion and we believe diversity strengthens the fabric of our culture. Thales is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans.


If you need an accommodation or assistance in order to apply for a position with Thales, please contact us at talentacquisition@us.thalesgroup.com.


The reference Total Target Compensation (TTC) market range for this position, inclusive of annual base salary and the variable compensation target, is between


Total Target Cash (TTC) 136,734.45 - 227,890.75 USD Annual

This reflects how companies in a similar industry and geographic region generally pay for similar jobs. This range helps the Company make pay decisions as one data point among many. Where a position falls within this range is also dependent on other factors including – but not limited to – the employee’s career path history, competencies, skills and performance, as well as the company’s annual salary budget, the customer’s program requirements, and the company’s internal equity. Thales may offer additional benefits and other compensation, depending on circumstances not related to an applicant’s status protected by local, state, or federal law.


(For Internal candidate, if you need more information, please raise HR request through MyThales)

 

Thales provides an extensive benefits program for all full-time employees working 30 or more hours per week and their eligible dependents, including the following:


•Elective Health, Dental, Vision, FSA/HSA, Voluntary Life and AD&D, Whole Group Life w/LTC, Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity, Accident Insurance, Legal Plan, Identity Theft, and Pet Insurance

•Retirement Savings Plan after 30 days of employment with a company contribution and a match, and with no vesting period

•Company paid holidays and Paid Time Off

•Company provided Life Insurance, AD&D, Disability, Employee Assistance Plan, and Well-being Program

About Thales

Thales

Thales is a global leader in defense, aerospace, cybersecurity, digital identity, and transportation technologies. With operations in dozens of countries and a strong presence in the defense sector, Thales develops advanced solutions that support military communications, radar systems, electronic warfare, air defense, cybersecurity, intelligence, and space missions. The company plays a critical role in helping governments and armed forces maintain operational readiness in an increasingly complex security environment.

For job seekers, Thales offers opportunities across engineering, software development, cybersecurity, systems integration, aerospace, manufacturing, artificial intelligence, and defense program management. The company is especially attractive to engineers, technology professionals, veterans, and mission-focused candidates who want to work on advanced technologies that support national security, defense modernization, and critical infrastructure protection around the world.

Unlike companies focused on a single mission area, Thales operates across a diverse portfolio of technologies spanning defense, aviation, space, cyber, and digital systems. Employees have the opportunity to contribute to projects involving secure communications, next-generation radar, autonomous systems, satellite technologies, and cyber defense capabilities while collaborating with customers and partners across the globe.

As governments continue investing in cybersecurity, digital transformation, advanced sensing, and multi-domain defense capabilities, Thales remains one of the most influential employers in the global defense industry. For professionals seeking a mission-driven career with international reach, technical innovation, and long-term growth opportunities, Thales continues to stand out as a premier destination in defense and aerospace technology.

Go to company profile