I’ve been deeply interested in AI and machine learning since around 2019, back when GPT-2 was still one of the major talking points. Since then, I’ve been amazed by how quickly the field has evolved. It genuinely feels like one of the most exciting times to be involved in technology, research, and innovation. My background is in audio. I’ve spent most of my life working as an audio engineer, and I’ve always loved learning about sound, digital signal processing, and the technology behind audio systems. Since 2022, I’ve been working toward a long-term goal of becoming an AI researcher, specifically in the audio and music technology space. To move toward that goal, I went back to school, completed coding bootcamps, studied the mathematics behind machine learning, and I’m currently working on a master’s degree in artificial intelligence and machine learning. I’m also planning to pursue a PhD after graduation. Many of my classmates and colleagues are interested in business applications of AI, but I’m still completely committed to audio. I currently work as an AV systems designer and consultant, and while I’m grateful to have a career, I often feel disconnected from the work. Most days, I would much rather be studying AI, audio, machine learning, DSP, and research. I’ve started applying for roles, but I’ve faced several rejections. I also recently wrote and submitted a research paper to ISMIR. Unfortunately, it was rejected, but the process was still incredibly valuable, and I received feedback that will help me improve. I think what I’m ultimately trying to say is that this is not a career path I’m pursuing because AI is popular or because I expect to make a huge amount of money. I genuinely love audio and AI, and I want to spend my life working on problems that combine the two. I want to wake up each day and feel like the work I’m doing matters to me. For anyone currently working as an AI or machine learning researcher, especially within audio, music, speech, or signal processing, I would really appreciate your perspective: What did it actually take for you to get your first research role? What qualifications, education, projects, publications, or previous experience helped you stand out? What are the best and worst parts of being a researcher? What do you wish you had known before entering the field? And if someone came to you today and said they wanted to become an industry researcher, what advice would you give them? Thank you in advance to anyone willing to share their experiences. Even honest or difficult feedback would be genuinely appreciated. submitted by /u/Consistent_Sundae540
Originally posted by u/Consistent_Sundae540 on r/ArtificialInteligence
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