Principal Data Scientist

Elsevier; Greater London; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative firm is seeking a Principal Data Scientist to lead groundbreaking projects in the life sciences sector. This role involves collaborating with cross-functional teams to drive technological advancements and develop innovative solutions that enhance decision-making in healthcare. The ideal candidate will possess a strong engineering background in AI/ML, with hands-on experience in data science and software development. You'll engage with stakeholders at all levels, shaping strategies that impact the pharmaceutical industry. Join a dynamic team that values trust, collaboration, and quality while promoting a healthy work-life balance through various initiatives.

Benefits

Generous holiday allowance

Health screening

Private medical benefits

Competitive pension scheme

Share options

Employee Assistance Programme

Qualifications

• Strong engineering background with current knowledge of AI/ML technology.
• Hands-on experience as a software developer or data scientist.

Responsibilities

• Lead Proof of Concepts and collaborate with data science teams.
• Build relationships with technology users in the pharmaceutical industry.

Skills

AI/ML Technology

Python

Java

Data Science

Stakeholder Engagement

GenAI Integration

Education

Degree in Computer Science or related field

Tools

Microsoft OneLake

AWS Sagemaker

Databricks

Snowflake

Job description

Join to apply for the Principal Data Scientist role at Elsevier.

Life Sciences Solutions serve clients in pharmaceuticals, biotech, medical technology, chemicals, oil & gas, FMCG, and more. We also support educators and students in chemistry and health sciences. Our clients aim to fight disease, improve patient safety, and develop sustainable materials. We enable evidence-based decision-making through our expertise in curating, enriching, and integrating scientific data assets. Our team values trust, respect, collaboration, agility, and quality.

About the role

The Principal Data Scientist will lead Proof of Concepts (PoCs), collaborate with commercial and data science teams, and shape technology strategy as part of the CM Architecture & Innovation team, reporting to the Senior Director.

Responsibilities

1. Collaboration: Engage with Elsevier teams to understand data science capabilities and work with the Corporate Markets Business Unit to identify innovation opportunities.
2. Innovation: Lead development experiments and PoCs using diverse technologies. Form cross-functional teams to validate ideas and inform strategies.
3. Expertise: Act as a subject matter expert in Data Science and Advanced Technology, keeping the team updated on industry trends and presenting updates to stakeholders.
4. Customer Engagement: Build relationships with technology users in the pharmaceutical industry, understand their challenges, and provide insights on IT trends.
5. Transition Support: Support moving successful PoCs into production and encourage innovation across teams for faster outcomes.
6. Strategy and Roadmaps: Contribute to the technology strategy and roadmaps for Corporate Markets.

Requirements

• Strong engineering background with current knowledge of AI/ML technology.
• Hands-on experience supporting production systems as a software developer or data scientist.
• Experience leading teams to deliver complex solutions, including across international teams.
• Proven ability to implement and integrate advanced Data Science and GenAI into production systems.
• Experience engaging with stakeholders at all levels, including presenting to CxO level.
• Proficiency in Python and familiarity with Java, LangGraph, MCP, Agentic Workflows, Knowledge Graphs, Vector search, and no/low-code frameworks.
• Familiarity with platforms like Microsoft OneLake, AWS Sagemaker, Databricks, and Snowflake.

Work in a way that works for you

We promote a healthy work/life balance with wellbeing initiatives, parental leave, study assistance, and sabbaticals.

Benefits

• Generous holiday allowance with additional purchase options.
• Health screening, eye care vouchers, private medical benefits.
• Competitive pension scheme.
• Share options, travel loans, EV schemes.
• Maternity, paternity, shared parental leave.
• Employee Assistance Programme, emergency care, RECARES days, resource groups, learning resources, discounts.

About Elsevier

A global leader in information and analytics, supporting science, healthcare, and education to address grand societal challenges and promote sustainability through innovative technologies.

Additional Information

Level: Mid-Senior level

Type: Full-time

Industries: Data Infrastructure, IT Services, IT Consulting, IT System Design