Principal Research Scientist - Ai & Data Science

NielsenIQ; Girardot; On-site; COP 180,000,000 - 240,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible working environment

Volunteer time off

LinkedIn Learning

Employee-Assistance-Program (EAP)

Job summary

NielsenIQ is seeking a world-class Data Scientist/Research Scientist to drive advanced ML/AI methodologies in a product-focused, data-rich environment. You will own full project lifecycles—from concept through deployment—while collaborating with operations, technology, and stakeholders to ensure high-impact results.

The role requires a PhD with 7+ years of experience, strong Python and data systems skills, and a proven ability to publish and present results.

Qualifications

• PhD in Data Science or related field with exceptional analytical and technical skills.
• 7+ years of relevant experience in ML/AI and research.
• Strong programming in Python and experience with large-scale data systems.
• Experience with AzureML, DataBricks, CI/CD practices and modern MLOps.

Responsibilities

• Research and develop new ML/AI methodologies with rigorous evaluation.
• Own all phases of R&D projects from concept to deployment and monitoring.
• Collaborate with operations, technology, data science teams and stakeholders.
• Produce publication-level documentation of methods and best practices.

Skills

Python programming

Machine learning

Experimentation

AI/Agentic AI

English communication

Big data

Education

PhD in Data Science

Tools

AzureML

DataBricks

CI/CD

Docker

GitHub

SQL

Hadoop

PySpark

Job description

Job Description

Responsibilities

• Research and develop new methodologies, research directions, prototype solutions, and quantify their improvement with rigorous scientific methods in the ML/AI space.
• Own all the phases of an R&D project or process improvement, including conceptualization, design, prototyping, documentation, deployment, and monitoring.
• Work closely and collaborate with experienced teams in operations, technology, other data scientists, and internal stakeholders during all phases of a project.
• Deliver high quality, academic publication-level, documentation of new methodologies and best practices.
• Engage with stakeholders on objectives, scope, execution, data exchange, and outcomes for assigned projects.
• Participate in and actively contribute to multiple projects simultaneously.

Qualifications

• Doctorate (Ph.D.) Degree in Data Science, Mathematics, Statistics, Engineering, Computer Science, or related field, with outstanding analytical expertise and strong technical skills. At least 7 years of relevant experience.
• Domain expert knowledge in multiple areas of the following: programming, software engineering / UI & UX / multivariate statistics (parametric/non-parametric) / machine learning / deep learning & Agentic AI / trend & time-series analysis / sampling theory.
• Critical and innovative thinking coupled with strong analytical skills focused on experimentation and hypothesis testing.
• High proficiency in Python programming (without AI assistance) and working with large-scale databases (e.g., SQL, Hadoop, pySpark, etc), statistical packages (Pandas, NumPy, Scikit-Learn), and unit testing. Experience with AzureML, DataBricks, and CI/CD (Docker, Unix, AKS) best practices.
• Able to work in virtual environment and comfortable with git (Github) processes, including PRs and code conflict resolution.
• Strong communication, presentation and collaboration skills in the English language with a record of written materials and public presentations (e.g., papers, conferences, patents, tutorials, substack, etc).
• A continuously learner willing to experiment and adopt new technologies and tools.

Additional Information

Our Benefits

• Flexible working environment
• Volunteer time off
• LinkedIn Learning
• Employee-Assistance-Program (EAP)

NIQ may utilize artificial intelligence (AI) tools at various stages of the recruitment process, including résumé screening, candidate assessments, interview scheduling, job matching, communication support, and certain administrative tasks that help streamline workflows. These tools are intended to improve efficiency and support fair and consistent evaluation based on job-related criteria. All use of AI is governed by NIQ’s principles of fairness, transparency, human oversight, and inclusion. Final hiring decisions are made exclusively by humans. NIQ regularly reviews its AI tools to help mitigate bias and ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations. If you have questions, require accommodations, or wish to request human review were permitted by law, please contact your local HR representative. For more information, please visit NIQ’s AI Safety Policies and Guiding Principles: https://nielseniq.com/global/en/info/niqs-ai-safety-policies/

About NIQ

NIQ is the world’s leading consumer intelligence company, delivering the most complete understanding of consumer buying behavior and revealing new pathways to growth. In 2023, NIQ combined with GfK, bringing together the two industry leaders with unparalleled global reach. With a holistic retail read and the most comprehensive consumer insights—delivered with advanced analytics through state-of-the‑art platforms—NIQ delivers the Full View™. NIQ is an Advent International portfolio company with operations in 100+ markets, covering more than 90% of the world’s population.

For more information, visit NIQ.com

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Our commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

At NIQ, we are steadfast in our commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace that mirrors the rich diversity of the communities and markets we serve. We believe that embracing a wide range of perspectives drives innovation and excellence. All employment decisions at NIQ are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws. We invite individuals who share our dedication to inclusivity and equity to join us in making a meaningful impact. To learn more about our ongoing efforts in diversity and inclusion, please visit the https://nielseniq.com/global/en/news-center/diversity-inclusion