About Unconventional

Since 2022, AI has entered the mainstream, reshaping entire industries from education and software development to fundamental consumer behaviors. This revolution has created an unprecedented demand for computation - a demand that is now fundamentally limited by energy, not just in the datacenter, but at a global scale.
At Unconventional, our mission is to solve this. We are rethinking computing from the ground up to build a new foundation for AI that is 1000x more efficient. We're doing this by exploiting the rich physics of semiconductors, mapping neural networks directly to the device physics rather than relying on layers of inefficient abstraction.

The Role

As a Member of Technical Staff, you will be a foundational member of our small, multi-disciplinary R&D team. We are looking for 'first principles' thinkers who are excited to tackle the hardest, most ambiguous technical challenges at the intersection of AI, physics, and computer architecture. You will be responsible for driving invention, prototyping, and validation of the core components of our novel computing platform.
Your work will be fluid and could span from theoretical modeling and simulation to algorithm development, hardware/software co-design, or experimental validation. We're hiring exceptional problem-solvers who can navigate deep uncertainty and help chart our technical roadmap.

What We're Looking For

• Exceptional technical ability in a quantitative field (e.g., Physics, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Applied Math, or a related discipline). An MS/PhD or equivalent research/project experience is strongly preferred.
• A "0-to-1" mindset. You have a demonstrated history of tackling complex, ambiguous R&D problems, often from a blank slate.
• Deep curiosity. You are comfortable diving into new domains, whether it's semiconductor physics, machine learning theory, or systems-level design.
• A creative and unconventional approach to problem-solving.
• High agency and self-motivation. You thrive in a fast-paced, fluid environment where you take ownership and drive progress.

Bonus Points (Nice to Have)

• Experience with modern AI/ML algorithms, architectures, and frameworks (e.g., PyTorch, JAX).
• Experience with architecture, design, verification, implementation and test of mixed-signal SoCs.
• Strong simulation or scientific computing skills (e.g., in Python, C++, MATLAB).

Why Join Us?

• The Mission: Tackle a fundamental problem that could redefine computing for the next 50 years.
• The Impact: Be a foundational member of a world-class team with an outsized opportunity for ownership and impact.
• The Challenge: Work on deeply challenging, intellectually stimulating problems that sit at the cutting edge of multiple fields.
• The Perks: A comprehensive package including best-in-class health benefits, 401k matching, truly unlimited PTO, and complimentary meals in our Palo Alto office.