J-1 Visa ML Engineer Jobs
ML Engineer roles in the United States are accessible to exchange visitors through the J-1 visa, typically under the Research Scholar, Trainee, or Intern program categories depending on your career stage. Finding a host employer willing to work with a designated sponsor organization for DS-2019 sponsorship is the critical first step.
Find J-1 Visa ML Engineer JobsOverview
Showing 5 of 10+ ML Engineer jobs
See all ML Engineer Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new ML Engineer roles.
Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
Emory University is a leading research university that fosters excellence and attracts world-class talent to innovate today and prepare leaders for the future. We welcome candidates who can contribute to the excellence of our academic community.
ABOUT THE JOB
The Lau Lab in the Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics at Emory University is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral fellow to conduct research at the intersection of statistical modeling, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and infectious disease epidemiology.
The fellow will develop and apply novel statistical, mathematical, computational, and machine learning methods, with particular emphasis on deep learning and modern AI approaches, to improve our understanding, inference, and prediction of infectious disease dynamics. Potential research areas include epidemic forecasting, deep learning–based simulation-based inference, generative and foundation models for epidemiology, phylodynamics, and integration of heterogeneous surveillance data.
Projects are strongly grounded in real-world public health applications, including pandemic preparedness, outbreak forecasting, infectious disease surveillance, and data-driven public health decision-making. The fellow will have substantial opportunities to develop independent research directions and lead high-impact methodological and applied publications.
Position Details
- Start date: Spring-Summer 2027 preferred; timing is flexible for an exceptional candidate
- Initial term: 1 year, with the expectation of renewal based on performance, mutual fit, and funding
- Location: Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
JOB DESCRIPTION
Helps design and conduct research within a specified field while receiving advanced training from a designated Principal Investigator to enhance professional skills and research independence needed for pursuit of a career. The specific area of research in which the trainee is mentored is determined by the department and laboratory of the Postdoc. Designs and evaluates experiments. Develops new ideas that promote current research. Prepares and publishes scientific manuscripts under the direction of the Principal Investigator. May be responsible for operation of specific equipment. May teach techniques to others, train, and supervise research staff. Positions are temporary appointments as a research trainee. The initial appointment is for one year, renewal expected if progress is satisfactory and funds are available. Appointments cannot exceed five years.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
A doctoral degree or equivalent (Ph.D., M.D., ScD., D.V.M., DDS etc) in an appropriate field. Excellent scientific writing ability and strong oral communication skills. The ability to work effectively and collegially with colleagues. Additional qualifications as specified by the Principal Investigator.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- PhD in statistics, biostatistics, computer science, applied mathematics, physics, artificial intelligence, or another closely related quantitative field
- Strong interest in applying quantitative and computational methods to infectious disease epidemiology
- Strong background in statistical/mathematical modeling, machine learning, or computational methods
- Experience with deep learning, probabilistic modeling, scientific machine learning, or related modern AI methods is particularly desirable
- Strong interest in interdisciplinary research
- Proficiency in Python and R; experience with additional scientific computing frameworks is desirable
- Strong research record and evidence of growing independence
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
Candidates are not expected to have prior experience in every area listed above. Applicants with particularly strong methodological or computational backgrounds who are genuinely interested in applying their expertise to infectious disease problems are encouraged to apply.
Research Environment
The Lau Lab provides a highly collaborative and interdisciplinary research environment spanning biostatistics, epidemiology, computer science, and infectious disease dynamics. The fellow will work closely with Dr. Max Lau and will have opportunities to collaborate with leading researchers at Emory from Computer Science, Epidemiology and Biology. Postdoctoral fellows will receive strong support for professional development, including conference travel, interdisciplinary collaborations, development of independent research programs, and publication in leading methodological and scientific journals.
Application Instructions
Interested applicants should apply through the Emory portal.
Please include:
- Curriculum vitae (CV)
- Statement of research interests
- Contact information for two references. Reference letters will be requested from candidates selected for interview.
Questions may be directed to Dr. Max Lau at msy.lau@emory.edu.
Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.
Emory is an equal opportunity employer, and qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law. Emory University does not discriminate in admissions, educational programs, or employment, including recruitment, hiring, promotions, transfers, discipline, terminations, wage and salary administration, benefits, and training. Students, faculty, and staff are assured of participation in university programs and in the use of facilities without such discrimination. Emory University complies with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Vietnam Era Veteran's Readjustment Assistance Act, and applicable executive orders, federal and state regulations regarding nondiscrimination, equal opportunity, and affirmative action (for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities). Inquiries regarding this policy should be directed to the Emory University Department of Equity and Civil Rights Compliance, 201 Dowman Drive, Administration Building, Atlanta, GA 30322. Telephone: 404-727-9867 (V) | 404-712-2049 (TDD).
Emory University is committed to ensuring equal access and providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. To request this document in an alternate format or to seek a reasonable accommodation, please contact the Department of Accessibility Services at accessibility@emory.edu or call 404-727-9877 (Voice) | 404-712-2049 (TDD). We kindly ask that requests be made at least seven business days in advance to allow adequate time for coordination.
INTRODUCTION
Emory University is a leading research university that fosters excellence and attracts world-class talent to innovate today and prepare leaders for the future. We welcome candidates who can contribute to the excellence of our academic community.
ABOUT THE JOB
The Lau Lab in the Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics at Emory University is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral fellow to conduct research at the intersection of statistical modeling, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and infectious disease epidemiology.
The fellow will develop and apply novel statistical, mathematical, computational, and machine learning methods, with particular emphasis on deep learning and modern AI approaches, to improve our understanding, inference, and prediction of infectious disease dynamics. Potential research areas include epidemic forecasting, deep learning–based simulation-based inference, generative and foundation models for epidemiology, phylodynamics, and integration of heterogeneous surveillance data.
Projects are strongly grounded in real-world public health applications, including pandemic preparedness, outbreak forecasting, infectious disease surveillance, and data-driven public health decision-making. The fellow will have substantial opportunities to develop independent research directions and lead high-impact methodological and applied publications.
Position Details
- Start date: Spring-Summer 2027 preferred; timing is flexible for an exceptional candidate
- Initial term: 1 year, with the expectation of renewal based on performance, mutual fit, and funding
- Location: Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
JOB DESCRIPTION
Helps design and conduct research within a specified field while receiving advanced training from a designated Principal Investigator to enhance professional skills and research independence needed for pursuit of a career. The specific area of research in which the trainee is mentored is determined by the department and laboratory of the Postdoc. Designs and evaluates experiments. Develops new ideas that promote current research. Prepares and publishes scientific manuscripts under the direction of the Principal Investigator. May be responsible for operation of specific equipment. May teach techniques to others, train, and supervise research staff. Positions are temporary appointments as a research trainee. The initial appointment is for one year, renewal expected if progress is satisfactory and funds are available. Appointments cannot exceed five years.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
A doctoral degree or equivalent (Ph.D., M.D., ScD., D.V.M., DDS etc) in an appropriate field. Excellent scientific writing ability and strong oral communication skills. The ability to work effectively and collegially with colleagues. Additional qualifications as specified by the Principal Investigator.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- PhD in statistics, biostatistics, computer science, applied mathematics, physics, artificial intelligence, or another closely related quantitative field
- Strong interest in applying quantitative and computational methods to infectious disease epidemiology
- Strong background in statistical/mathematical modeling, machine learning, or computational methods
- Experience with deep learning, probabilistic modeling, scientific machine learning, or related modern AI methods is particularly desirable
- Strong interest in interdisciplinary research
- Proficiency in Python and R; experience with additional scientific computing frameworks is desirable
- Strong research record and evidence of growing independence
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
Candidates are not expected to have prior experience in every area listed above. Applicants with particularly strong methodological or computational backgrounds who are genuinely interested in applying their expertise to infectious disease problems are encouraged to apply.
Research Environment
The Lau Lab provides a highly collaborative and interdisciplinary research environment spanning biostatistics, epidemiology, computer science, and infectious disease dynamics. The fellow will work closely with Dr. Max Lau and will have opportunities to collaborate with leading researchers at Emory from Computer Science, Epidemiology and Biology. Postdoctoral fellows will receive strong support for professional development, including conference travel, interdisciplinary collaborations, development of independent research programs, and publication in leading methodological and scientific journals.
Application Instructions
Interested applicants should apply through the Emory portal.
Please include:
- Curriculum vitae (CV)
- Statement of research interests
- Contact information for two references. Reference letters will be requested from candidates selected for interview.
Questions may be directed to Dr. Max Lau at msy.lau@emory.edu.
Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.
Emory is an equal opportunity employer, and qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law. Emory University does not discriminate in admissions, educational programs, or employment, including recruitment, hiring, promotions, transfers, discipline, terminations, wage and salary administration, benefits, and training. Students, faculty, and staff are assured of participation in university programs and in the use of facilities without such discrimination. Emory University complies with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Vietnam Era Veteran's Readjustment Assistance Act, and applicable executive orders, federal and state regulations regarding nondiscrimination, equal opportunity, and affirmative action (for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities). Inquiries regarding this policy should be directed to the Emory University Department of Equity and Civil Rights Compliance, 201 Dowman Drive, Administration Building, Atlanta, GA 30322. Telephone: 404-727-9867 (V) | 404-712-2049 (TDD).
Emory University is committed to ensuring equal access and providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. To request this document in an alternate format or to seek a reasonable accommodation, please contact the Department of Accessibility Services at accessibility@emory.edu or call 404-727-9877 (Voice) | 404-712-2049 (TDD). We kindly ask that requests be made at least seven business days in advance to allow adequate time for coordination.
See all J-1 Visa ML Engineer Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new J-1 Visa ML Engineer Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding J-1 Visa Sponsorship as a ML Engineer
Align your ML specialization with J-1 categories
Research Scholar suits PhD-level ML researchers at universities or labs. Trainee fits early-career professionals with a degree and some work experience. Intern applies to current graduate students. Matching your profile to the right category before applying prevents DS-2019 delays.
Document your ML coursework and project outputs
Designated sponsor organizations require a detailed training plan tied to your field of study. Compile course transcripts, GitHub repositories, published papers, or capstone projects that demonstrate your ML focus before your host employer submits training plan documentation.
Target host employers with existing DS-2019 experience
Search for ML Engineer roles at universities, national labs, and research-driven tech firms that already host J-1 visa exchange visitors. Use Migrate Mate to filter for U.S. employers and roles aligned with J-1 visa sponsorship before reaching out.
Clarify the two-year home residency requirement early
Many ML Engineer J-1 participants, particularly Research Scholars funded by government sources, are subject to the two-year home residency requirement under INA Section 212(e). Confirm whether your program triggers this rule before accepting an offer, as it affects future H-1B visa or green card eligibility.
Verify your host employer can support a training plan
Your host organization must sign a formal training plan with your designated sponsor and demonstrate capacity to supervise your ML work. Confirm this before an offer is extended, since employers unfamiliar with J-1 obligations often withdraw after learning the administrative requirements.
Check DOL wage compliance for your ML role
Although J-1 is not employer-sponsored like H-1B, host employers must pay exchange visitors wages commensurate with similarly situated U.S. workers. Use the OFLC Wage Search and O*NET to benchmark ML Engineer compensation in your target location before negotiating your offer.
ML Engineer J-1 Visa: Frequently Asked Questions
Which J-1 program category fits an ML Engineer role?
It depends on your career stage. Current graduate students pursuing ML internships fall under the Intern category. Early-career professionals with a relevant degree and at least one year of work experience use the Trainee category. PhD-level researchers joining a university lab or national research institute typically qualify under Research Scholar, which is the most common path for senior ML roles.
Who actually sponsors a J-1 visa for an ML Engineer?
The visa sponsor is a U.S. Department of State-designated organization, such as IIE, CIEE, Cultural Vistas, or AIPT, that issues your DS-2019 and monitors program compliance. Your hiring organization is the host employer, not the sponsor. The host must agree to work with a designated sponsor and sign a training plan, but they do not file any petition directly with USCIS.
How do I find U.S. employers open to hosting a J-1 ML Engineer?
Start with Migrate Mate to identify U.S. employers and ML Engineer roles that align with J-1 sponsorship. Prioritize universities, government-affiliated research institutes, and established tech companies with prior J-1 hosting experience. Smaller startups often lack the internal HR infrastructure to navigate the training plan and designated sponsor relationship.
Does the two-year home residency requirement affect ML Engineers on J-1?
It can. The two-year home residency requirement under INA Section 212(e) applies when your J-1 program is government-funded, your home country lists your field on the exchange visitor skills list, or you enter as a government-sponsored visitor. If it applies, you must return to your home country for two years before obtaining an H-1B or immigrant visa unless you receive a waiver.
Can a J-1 ML Engineer work on independent projects or side contracts during their program?
No. J-1 exchange visitors are authorized to work only for the host employer named on their DS-2019 and only in the capacity described in the training plan. Freelance ML contracts, consulting work, or side projects for other organizations are not permitted during your exchange program, regardless of whether the work is remote or unpaid.