Junior data scientist and research intelligence

The University of Calgary; Calgary; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Calgary is seeking a Junior Data Scientist to support the Strategic Initiatives and Research Intelligence Team. This role involves data collection, cleaning, and visualization, contributing to research intelligence projects. The position requires strong skills in data science and machine learning techniques, with collaboration across various departments. Ideal candidates will have a background in computer science or data science, and experience with SQL, Python, and data visualization tools.

Qualifications

• Experience with data manipulation and visualization tools.
• Strong coding skills for web scraping and data processing.

Responsibilities

• Assist in developing code to automate data gathering.
• Create visualizations and dashboards to communicate findings.
• Support data analytics projects from inception to delivery.

Skills

SQL

Python

R

Power BI

Excel

Data Visualization

Problem Solving

Interpersonal Skills

Education

Post-secondary education in computer science

Tools

Git

Pandas

NumPy

SciPy

Matplotlib

Sklearn

NLTK

Job description

Description

The Strategic Initiatives and Research Intelligence (SIRI) Team in the Office of VP Research invites applications for a Junior Data Scientist. This full-time fixed-term position is for approximately 2 years (based on grant funding) with the possibility of extension.

As demands for data reporting and outcome tracking grow, the Office of the Vice-President (Research) seeks a Junior Data Scientist to support the SIRI team. Reporting to the Manager of SIRI, this role will aid in implementing the university's Research & Innovation Plan.

The Junior Data Scientist will assist in data collection, cleaning, transformation, and integration from various sources. Under senior team guidance, they will develop tools, models, and workflows for data-driven decision-making. Responsibilities include applying basic data science and machine learning techniques, creating visualizations, and maintaining well-documented data processes aligned with institutional standards.

The successful candidate will collaborate across campus to ensure consistent use of validated datasets, support report and dashboard preparation for university leadership, and contribute to research intelligence projects aligned with institutional priorities.

Summary of Key Responsibilities (including but not limited to):

1. Assist in developing code to automate data gathering from databases, APIs, flat files, and external datasets.
2. Develop applications for data preprocessing and cleaning to ensure accuracy and consistency.
3. Assist in designing and optimizing data architectures such as data warehouses, lakes, and ETL pipelines.
4. Work with senior team members to integrate data from multiple sources to create unified datasets for analysis and reporting.
5. Analyze institutional research data and external data related to research funding, faculty, students, publications, and citations.
6. Support data analytics projects from inception to delivery.
7. Contribute to team knowledge sharing and technical development.
8. Stay updated on trends and tools in data analytics and machine learning through self-learning and training.
9. Create visualizations and dashboards to communicate findings to stakeholders, including university leadership.
10. Explore datasets to identify patterns and outliers using statistical techniques and visualization tools.
11. Develop real-time dashboards using tools like Power BI with interactive features.
12. Develop advanced visualizations for complex data insights.
13. Optimize visualizations for performance and responsiveness.
14. Maintain professional relationships with university contacts and external stakeholders.
15. Participate in the Institutional Data Network and Research Metrics Community of Practice.
16. Prepare and present reports as needed.
17. Work under guidance on research activities and other duties as assigned.
18. Represent the university at conferences when applicable.

Qualifications / Requirements:

• Post-secondary education in computer science, data science, or related field, or equivalent experience.
• Experience with SQL, Python, R, Power BI, and Excel for data manipulation and visualization.
• Knowledge of Python libraries such as Pandas, NumPy, SciPy, Matplotlib, Sklearn, NLTK.
• Experience with Git for version control.
• Strong coding skills for web scraping and data processing.
• Ability to develop software solutions to improve data practices.
• Skills in designing effective data visualizations for diverse audiences.
• Systematic problem-solving skills and innovative solution development.
• Ability to support and maintain developed tools.
• Knowledge of natural language processing and artificial intelligence is a plus.
• Understanding of statistical methods and algorithms for extracting insights from data.
• Excellent communication skills for presenting findings to non-technical stakeholders.
• Ability to manage time effectively and prioritize tasks.
• Strong interpersonal skills for collaboration.
• Adaptability to a fast-paced environment with tact and discretion.

Application Deadline: May 23, 2025

We thank all applicants in advance. Only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.

This position is part of the AUPE bargaining unit, under the Technical Job Family, Phase 2.

For more opportunities at UCalgary, visit our Management and Staff Careers website.

About the University of Calgary

UCalgary is Canada's entrepreneurial university, located in Calgary. It is a top research university known for innovation, research, and entrepreneurial spirit. Founded in 1966, it has 36,000 students and a vibrant campus culture, including a focus on Indigenous inclusion and diversity.

The university is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion, encouraging applications from underrepresented groups and providing accommodations during the recruitment process. For questions on diversity and accommodations, contact the respective offices listed.