TN Visa AI Research Engineer Jobs
AI Research Engineer roles qualify for TN visa sponsorship under the USMCA's Computer Systems Analyst category when the position centers on developing or evaluating AI systems using theoretical and applied computer science. Canadian citizens can enter at the border without a cap or lottery. Mexican citizens require a consulate appointment.
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Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
Grand Valley State University (GVSU) and the Van Andel Institute (VAI) invite applications for a Full Professor and Inaugural Executive Director to lead the newly established AI Research and Innovation Institute (AIRAI), a strategic partnership between GVSU’s College of Computing and the Van Andel Institute. The Executive Director will serve as the founding scientific and strategic leader of the AI Research and Innovation Institute, guiding its growth into a globally recognized center of excellence in artificial intelligence. The Full Professor position will be housed in GVSU’s College of Computing, with an adjunct appointment at the Van Andel Institute. Tenure may be offered at hire based on the candidate's qualifications. The Executive Director reports to the Dean of the GVSU College of Computing. The successful candidate will be an accomplished scholar and visionary leader with the ability to inspire researchers across disciplines, attract major investments, and build high-impact collaborations spanning academia, industry, healthcare, and government. We welcome candidates with deep expertise in machine learning (theory or applied), AI systems and infrastructure, computer vision, NLP or multimodal AI, data science and large-scale AI. We also seek candidates working at the intersection of AI and computational biology/bioinformatics, genomics, epigenomics, systems biology, clinical and/or translational research.
SALARY & BENEFITS
Minimum 9-month academic year base salary of $185,000, commensurate with experience. Additional compensation is available for summer responsibilities associated with serving as the Executive Director of the AI Research and Innovation Institute. Comprehensive benefits package including medical, vision, dental, life insurance, generous employer retirement contributions, wellness resources and tuition waiver effective on date of hire.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Develop and execute a bold long-term vision for the institute
- Build internationally visible research programs in AI and AI-driven discovery
- Recruit and mentor world-class faculty, researchers, and doctoral students
- Position GVSU and VAI as global leaders in AI research and innovation
- Foster a culture of excellence, collaboration, entrepreneurship, and societal impact
- Advance the translation of AI discoveries into real-world solutions that improve human health and well-being
INSTITUTE LEADERSHIP
- Define and execute an ambitious vision for a world-class AI research and innovation institute
- Lead a multidisciplinary research enterprise spanning AI, computing, and life sciences
- Establish AIRAI as a nationally and internationally recognized center of excellence
- Shape institute strategy, governance, and long-term sustainability
- Cultivate a culture of scientific excellence, innovation, and inclusion
- Represent the institute globally through partnerships, conferences, and strategic initiatives
RESEARCH DEVELOPMENT
- Build externally funded research programs in Core AI (ML, systems, multimodal AI) and AI applications (biomedical, life sciences, health, and beyond)
- Secure funding from NSF, NIH (AI for biomedical research), industry and foundations
FACULTY & TEAM BUILDING
Recruit And Develop Exceptional Talent Across
- Foundational AI
- AI systems and infrastructure
- AI + biomedical sciences
- AI + health
- AI + emerging domains
Build a Vibrant Intellectual Community That Encourages
- Scientific excellence
- Interdisciplinary collaboration
- Entrepreneurship and technology transfer
- Responsible and human-centered AI innovation
PARTNERSHIPS & ECOSYSTEM BUILDING
- Strengthen collaboration with Van Andel Institute
- Build partnerships with healthcare systems, biotech and pharmaceutical companies, and AI and technology organizations
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND EDUCATION
- Ph.D. and 10+ years of experience leading research teams in AI or related areas
- Demonstrated interest in advancing AI research in biomedical, life sciences, or societal challenges
- Record of excellence consistent with appointment at the rank of Full Professor
- Strong research record in AI, machine learning, or related areas
- Demonstrated success in securing external funding
- Experience leading research initiatives or teams
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Demonstrated success building or scaling research centers, institutes, or large collaborative initiatives
- Experience leading multidisciplinary teams across institutions or sectors
- Record of mentoring faculty, post-docs and graduate students toward research excellence
- Experience translating research into societal, or economic impact
- Evidence of national or international scientific leadership
- Vision for shaping the future of AI research and graduate education
HOW TO APPLY
Applicants should submit:
- Curriculum Vitae
- Statement of research
- Statement of leadership vision (AI Research and Innovation Institute + Ph.D. program)
- Complete contact information for 3 references
The system will allow you to attach up to 5 documents electronically. If you have questions about the position or the posting, please contact Alison Hodgson at hodgsoal@gvsu.edu. If you need technical assistance, please contact Human Resources at hro@gvsu.edu.
APPLICATION DEADLINE
Candidate review will begin the week of September 14, 2026 and continue until the position is filled. This posting may be closed at any time at the discretion of the University.
ABOUT GRAND RAPIDS AND THE MEDICAL MILE
Grand Rapids is rapidly establishing itself as a national center for healthcare innovation, life sciences, and advanced technologies. Anchored by the internationally recognized Medical Mile, the region hosts a unique concentration of research institutes, healthcare systems, entrepreneurs, and industry partners committed to accelerating scientific discovery and improving human health. This dynamic ecosystem creates exceptional opportunities to translate AI breakthroughs into real-world impact, positioning the AI Research and Innovation Institute at the nexus of artificial intelligence, biomedical innovation, and economic development. Located on the banks of the Grand River, Grand Rapids offers all the big-city excitement you'd expect from a million-resident metropolis, featuring hundreds of restaurants and nightspots, theaters, museums, sports and concerts. The safe and clean downtown is surrounded by an eclectic mix of walkable neighborhoods and natural areas.
ABOUT COLLEGE OF COMPUTING AT GVSU
The College of Computing at GVSU is a fast-growing, forward-looking academic unit built on the principle that computing is a shared infrastructure across all disciplines. Over the past few years, the College has experienced significant and accelerating growth in research capacity and activity, including:
- Strategic hiring of AI-focused faculty across multiple domains
- Expansion of externally funded research in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and applied computing
- Development of interdisciplinary research initiatives aligned with industry and societal needs
- Increasing engagement with federal agencies, industry partners, and regional innovation ecosystems
This momentum reflects a deliberate shift toward becoming a research-active, impact-driven computing college, with growing expectations and support for:
- Grant-funded research and scholarly output
- Interdisciplinary collaboration (Computing + X)
- Translational and applied innovation
The launch of the Ph.D. in Computing marks a historic milestone and further accelerates this trajectory, positioning the College as a key driver of AI research and talent development in the region.
ABOUT THE PH.D. IN COMPUTING
In partnership with VAI, the institute will leverage:
- Advanced computing and data infrastructure
- World-class biomedical and life science research environments
THE PH.D. IN COMPUTING IS
- Fully funded program
- Providing deep training in core AI and machine learning
- Offering pathways into AI applications in biomedical and other high-impact domains
- Including co-advising across institutions
ABOUT VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE (VAI)
Van Andel Institute is a world-class independent biomedical research and science education organization committed to improving the health and enhancing the lives of current and future generations. The Institute combines significant internal investment, advanced technological platforms, and a culture of collaboration to enable high-impact discovery, specifically with strengths in:
- Cancer biology and epigenetics
- Neurodegenerative disease research
- Metabolism and Nutritional Programming
- Structural biology and advanced imaging (e.g., cryo-EM)
- World-class Core Technologies and Services.
VAI's research impact is reflected in independent rankings: in 2026, VAI ranked No. 3 among North American nonprofit research organizations for biological sciences on the 2026 Nature Index Research Leaders list.
VAI BRINGS
- World-class research faculty and laboratories
- A strong track record of high-impact scientific discovery
- A graduate education ecosystem in biomedical sciences
- A culture of innovation, collaboration, and scientific excellence
THIS PARTNERSHIP ENABLES A RARE INTEGRATION OF
- Advanced AI and computational methods (GVSU)
- Cutting-edge biomedical research (VAI)
VISION FOR THE AI RESEARCH AND INNOVATION INSTITUTE
The AI Research and Innovation Institute aspires to become a world-class destination for artificial intelligence research and education by:
- Advancing foundational AI and next-generation computational methods
- Accelerating discoveries in biomedical and life sciences
- Creating transformative AI solutions for society
- Training the next generation of AI scientists and innovators
- Catalyzing economic development and entrepreneurship in the region and beyond
The institute will leverage the complementary strengths of GVSU’s rapidly growing computing ecosystem and VAI’s internationally recognized biomedical research enterprise to create an unprecedented environment for AI-driven discovery.
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Must have the physical stamina to work long hours and/or more than 5 days per week. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The information contained in this job description is for compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act as amended by the ADA Amendment Act (2008), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and other applicable federal and state laws that prohibit discrimination on the basis of disability. GVSU will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request.
Grand Valley State University is an Antidiscrimination/Equal Opportunity Employer, which includes providing equal opportunity for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. University policy extends protections to additional identities.
INTRODUCTION
Grand Valley State University (GVSU) and the Van Andel Institute (VAI) invite applications for a Full Professor and Inaugural Executive Director to lead the newly established AI Research and Innovation Institute (AIRAI), a strategic partnership between GVSU’s College of Computing and the Van Andel Institute. The Executive Director will serve as the founding scientific and strategic leader of the AI Research and Innovation Institute, guiding its growth into a globally recognized center of excellence in artificial intelligence. The Full Professor position will be housed in GVSU’s College of Computing, with an adjunct appointment at the Van Andel Institute. Tenure may be offered at hire based on the candidate's qualifications. The Executive Director reports to the Dean of the GVSU College of Computing. The successful candidate will be an accomplished scholar and visionary leader with the ability to inspire researchers across disciplines, attract major investments, and build high-impact collaborations spanning academia, industry, healthcare, and government. We welcome candidates with deep expertise in machine learning (theory or applied), AI systems and infrastructure, computer vision, NLP or multimodal AI, data science and large-scale AI. We also seek candidates working at the intersection of AI and computational biology/bioinformatics, genomics, epigenomics, systems biology, clinical and/or translational research.
SALARY & BENEFITS
Minimum 9-month academic year base salary of $185,000, commensurate with experience. Additional compensation is available for summer responsibilities associated with serving as the Executive Director of the AI Research and Innovation Institute. Comprehensive benefits package including medical, vision, dental, life insurance, generous employer retirement contributions, wellness resources and tuition waiver effective on date of hire.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Develop and execute a bold long-term vision for the institute
- Build internationally visible research programs in AI and AI-driven discovery
- Recruit and mentor world-class faculty, researchers, and doctoral students
- Position GVSU and VAI as global leaders in AI research and innovation
- Foster a culture of excellence, collaboration, entrepreneurship, and societal impact
- Advance the translation of AI discoveries into real-world solutions that improve human health and well-being
INSTITUTE LEADERSHIP
- Define and execute an ambitious vision for a world-class AI research and innovation institute
- Lead a multidisciplinary research enterprise spanning AI, computing, and life sciences
- Establish AIRAI as a nationally and internationally recognized center of excellence
- Shape institute strategy, governance, and long-term sustainability
- Cultivate a culture of scientific excellence, innovation, and inclusion
- Represent the institute globally through partnerships, conferences, and strategic initiatives
RESEARCH DEVELOPMENT
- Build externally funded research programs in Core AI (ML, systems, multimodal AI) and AI applications (biomedical, life sciences, health, and beyond)
- Secure funding from NSF, NIH (AI for biomedical research), industry and foundations
FACULTY & TEAM BUILDING
Recruit And Develop Exceptional Talent Across
- Foundational AI
- AI systems and infrastructure
- AI + biomedical sciences
- AI + health
- AI + emerging domains
Build a Vibrant Intellectual Community That Encourages
- Scientific excellence
- Interdisciplinary collaboration
- Entrepreneurship and technology transfer
- Responsible and human-centered AI innovation
PARTNERSHIPS & ECOSYSTEM BUILDING
- Strengthen collaboration with Van Andel Institute
- Build partnerships with healthcare systems, biotech and pharmaceutical companies, and AI and technology organizations
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND EDUCATION
- Ph.D. and 10+ years of experience leading research teams in AI or related areas
- Demonstrated interest in advancing AI research in biomedical, life sciences, or societal challenges
- Record of excellence consistent with appointment at the rank of Full Professor
- Strong research record in AI, machine learning, or related areas
- Demonstrated success in securing external funding
- Experience leading research initiatives or teams
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Demonstrated success building or scaling research centers, institutes, or large collaborative initiatives
- Experience leading multidisciplinary teams across institutions or sectors
- Record of mentoring faculty, post-docs and graduate students toward research excellence
- Experience translating research into societal, or economic impact
- Evidence of national or international scientific leadership
- Vision for shaping the future of AI research and graduate education
HOW TO APPLY
Applicants should submit:
- Curriculum Vitae
- Statement of research
- Statement of leadership vision (AI Research and Innovation Institute + Ph.D. program)
- Complete contact information for 3 references
The system will allow you to attach up to 5 documents electronically. If you have questions about the position or the posting, please contact Alison Hodgson at hodgsoal@gvsu.edu. If you need technical assistance, please contact Human Resources at hro@gvsu.edu.
APPLICATION DEADLINE
Candidate review will begin the week of September 14, 2026 and continue until the position is filled. This posting may be closed at any time at the discretion of the University.
ABOUT GRAND RAPIDS AND THE MEDICAL MILE
Grand Rapids is rapidly establishing itself as a national center for healthcare innovation, life sciences, and advanced technologies. Anchored by the internationally recognized Medical Mile, the region hosts a unique concentration of research institutes, healthcare systems, entrepreneurs, and industry partners committed to accelerating scientific discovery and improving human health. This dynamic ecosystem creates exceptional opportunities to translate AI breakthroughs into real-world impact, positioning the AI Research and Innovation Institute at the nexus of artificial intelligence, biomedical innovation, and economic development. Located on the banks of the Grand River, Grand Rapids offers all the big-city excitement you'd expect from a million-resident metropolis, featuring hundreds of restaurants and nightspots, theaters, museums, sports and concerts. The safe and clean downtown is surrounded by an eclectic mix of walkable neighborhoods and natural areas.
ABOUT COLLEGE OF COMPUTING AT GVSU
The College of Computing at GVSU is a fast-growing, forward-looking academic unit built on the principle that computing is a shared infrastructure across all disciplines. Over the past few years, the College has experienced significant and accelerating growth in research capacity and activity, including:
- Strategic hiring of AI-focused faculty across multiple domains
- Expansion of externally funded research in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and applied computing
- Development of interdisciplinary research initiatives aligned with industry and societal needs
- Increasing engagement with federal agencies, industry partners, and regional innovation ecosystems
This momentum reflects a deliberate shift toward becoming a research-active, impact-driven computing college, with growing expectations and support for:
- Grant-funded research and scholarly output
- Interdisciplinary collaboration (Computing + X)
- Translational and applied innovation
The launch of the Ph.D. in Computing marks a historic milestone and further accelerates this trajectory, positioning the College as a key driver of AI research and talent development in the region.
ABOUT THE PH.D. IN COMPUTING
In partnership with VAI, the institute will leverage:
- Advanced computing and data infrastructure
- World-class biomedical and life science research environments
THE PH.D. IN COMPUTING IS
- Fully funded program
- Providing deep training in core AI and machine learning
- Offering pathways into AI applications in biomedical and other high-impact domains
- Including co-advising across institutions
ABOUT VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE (VAI)
Van Andel Institute is a world-class independent biomedical research and science education organization committed to improving the health and enhancing the lives of current and future generations. The Institute combines significant internal investment, advanced technological platforms, and a culture of collaboration to enable high-impact discovery, specifically with strengths in:
- Cancer biology and epigenetics
- Neurodegenerative disease research
- Metabolism and Nutritional Programming
- Structural biology and advanced imaging (e.g., cryo-EM)
- World-class Core Technologies and Services.
VAI's research impact is reflected in independent rankings: in 2026, VAI ranked No. 3 among North American nonprofit research organizations for biological sciences on the 2026 Nature Index Research Leaders list.
VAI BRINGS
- World-class research faculty and laboratories
- A strong track record of high-impact scientific discovery
- A graduate education ecosystem in biomedical sciences
- A culture of innovation, collaboration, and scientific excellence
THIS PARTNERSHIP ENABLES A RARE INTEGRATION OF
- Advanced AI and computational methods (GVSU)
- Cutting-edge biomedical research (VAI)
VISION FOR THE AI RESEARCH AND INNOVATION INSTITUTE
The AI Research and Innovation Institute aspires to become a world-class destination for artificial intelligence research and education by:
- Advancing foundational AI and next-generation computational methods
- Accelerating discoveries in biomedical and life sciences
- Creating transformative AI solutions for society
- Training the next generation of AI scientists and innovators
- Catalyzing economic development and entrepreneurship in the region and beyond
The institute will leverage the complementary strengths of GVSU’s rapidly growing computing ecosystem and VAI’s internationally recognized biomedical research enterprise to create an unprecedented environment for AI-driven discovery.
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Must have the physical stamina to work long hours and/or more than 5 days per week. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The information contained in this job description is for compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act as amended by the ADA Amendment Act (2008), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and other applicable federal and state laws that prohibit discrimination on the basis of disability. GVSU will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request.
Grand Valley State University is an Antidiscrimination/Equal Opportunity Employer, which includes providing equal opportunity for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. University policy extends protections to additional identities.
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding TN Visa Sponsorship as an AI Research Engineer
Frame your credentials around CS theory
TN visa approval for AI Research Engineer roles hinges on demonstrating a computer science or engineering degree, not just machine learning experience. Pull your transcripts and confirm your degree title maps directly to a theoretical or applied CS discipline before applying.
Target employers with dedicated research labs
Companies running formal AI research divisions already understand the TN Computer Systems Analyst category. Focus your search on organizations that publish peer-reviewed work, since their HR and legal teams have navigated this classification before.
Ask employers to define the role in your offer letter
CBP officers evaluate TN petitions at the border, not USCIS. Your offer letter must describe duties in terms of systems analysis and AI model design, not vague engineering tasks. A poorly worded letter is the most common reason TN applications are delayed at the port of entry.
Use Migrate Mate to surface active TN sponsors
Searching for roles at employers with recent visa filings saves weeks of outreach. Migrate Mate filters AI Research Engineer listings by employer sponsorship experience, so you're contacting companies who have already demonstrated expertise with work visa processes.
Prepare for Mexican nationals' consulate timeline
Mexican citizens cannot self-adjudicate at the border and must schedule a consulate appointment, which can take several weeks. Build at least 60 days into your job search timeline between an accepted offer and your intended U.S. start date.
Align your research publications with the specialty occupation
CBP and consular officers respond well to evidence of formal AI research output. A list of published papers, conference proceedings, or technical reports filed with your TN package strengthens the argument that the role requires your specific theoretical expertise.
AI Research Engineer TN Visa: Frequently Asked Questions
Does an AI Research Engineer role qualify for a TN visa?
Yes, provided the role is structured around computer systems analysis and AI model development grounded in theoretical computer science. TN classification requires a direct connection between your degree field and the job duties. Roles focused purely on deploying pre-built models without a research or analysis component are harder to support under the Computer Systems Analyst category.
How does TN visa sponsorship compare to H-1B for AI Research Engineers?
TN has no annual lottery, no filing cap for Canadians, and no USCIS petition queue, so qualified Canadian professionals can start work far faster than under H-1B visa. The tradeoff is that TN status doesn't lead to a green card on its own and must be renewed indefinitely. H-1B offers dual intent and a path to permanent residence, which matters if long-term U.S. settlement is your goal.
Can I switch AI Research Engineer employers while on TN status?
Yes, but you need a new TN approval before starting with the new employer. TN status is employer-specific. Canadian citizens can obtain a new TN at the border with a fresh offer letter and supporting documents. Mexican citizens must return to a U.S. consulate. There is no portability provision under TN the way AC21 allows for H-1B holders.
Where can I find AI Research Engineer jobs with confirmed TN visa sponsorship?
Migrate Mate is built specifically for Canadian and Mexican professionals searching for U.S. roles that may qualify for TN visa sponsorship. The platform surfaces AI Research Engineer listings from employers with recent visa filings, which removes the guesswork of cold-contacting companies that may not have experience with work visa sponsorship.
What documents does my employer need to provide for TN sponsorship?
Your employer must produce a detailed offer letter specifying your job title, duties, the TN category being claimed, your degree requirement, and your anticipated length of employment. For Canadian citizens, this letter is presented directly to CBP at the port of entry. For Mexican nationals, it accompanies the DS-160 and supporting materials submitted to the U.S. consulate.