Principal Scientist - Newcastle upon Tyne

ZipRecruiter; North East; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading sports organization in Newcastle is seeking a Principal Scientist to advance football intelligence through data analysis. Candidates should have strong Python and machine learning skills, along with a Master's or PhD in a quantitative field. Responsibilities include designing predictive models and collaborating with teams to transform data into insights. Flexible working options available.

Benefits

Flexible working

Employee bonus scheme

Life assurance

Free parking

Wellbeing resources

Free lunch

Free tea and coffee

Salary sacrifice scheme for tech

Qualifications

• Master’s or PhD in a quantitative field.
• Strong Python skills and experience with Scikit-learn, XGBoost, or LightGBM.
• Experience with deep learning frameworks (PyTorch or TensorFlow).
• Familiarity with MLOps principles and cloud data platforms is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Designing models to evaluate player decisions and predict movement.
• Collaborating with teams to turn complex datasets into actionable insights.
• Developing models across structured data problems using core machine learning libraries.

Skills

Python

Scikit-learn

XGBoost

LightGBM

Deep learning frameworks (PyTorch or TensorFlow)

MLOps principles

Git

Education

Master’s or PhD in a quantitative field

Tools

Snowflake

Azure

Job description

Overview

Principal Scientist Newcastle United. Permanent role based in Newcastle Upon Tyne with a competitive salary. We are the heartbeat of the city, bringing people and communities together as part of the Newcastle United Family, on and off the pitch.

About the role

Are you passionate about football and machine learning? We’re looking for a curious and driven scientist to push the boundaries of football intelligence. You’ll work with cutting-edge data—from player tracking and skeletal movement to event and positional feeds—to uncover insights that shape recruitment, coaching, and strategy.

Your impact

We’re after someone who knows when to use a well-tuned statistical model and when to unleash deep learning. You’ll be comfortable working with large-scale time series data, building bespoke metrics, and integrating diverse models to create rich, layered analysis. If you’ve worked with football data providers like StatsBomb or Second Spectrum, even better.

Responsibilities

• Designing and implementing models that evaluate player decisions, predict movement, and assess possession value.
• Collaborating with the data team and senior technical staff to turn complex datasets into clear, actionable insights aligned with football philosophy.
• Developing and deploying models across structured data problems using core machine learning libraries.

Qualifications

• Master’s or PhD in a quantitative field.
• Strong Python skills and extensive experience with Scikit-learn, XGBoost, or LightGBM.
• Experience applying core machine learning libraries to structured data problems.
• Experience with deep learning frameworks (PyTorch or TensorFlow) where appropriate.
• Experience with version control (Git) and software engineering best practices.
• Familiarity with MLOps principles and cloud data platforms (Snowflake and Azure) is a plus.

About the team

We’re building something special and want someone excited to stay at the forefront of football analytics.

Location

This role is based in Newcastle upon Tyne, with an expectation of working 3 days per week from the office. If you are not located in the Northeast and are unable to relocate, we will not be able to progress your application.

Why choose us?

Benefits include flexible working, participation in a non-contractual employee bonus scheme, NUFC life assurance, free parking, discounts at The Club Shop, Wellbeing resources, Pension contribution, free lunch, and free tea and coffee. We also offer a salary sacrifice scheme for tech, car, cycle to work, and more.

Equality and safeguarding

We are committed to equality and equal opportunities for all. We foster an inclusive environment where everyone can be their authentic self and achieve their full potential. We are committed to safeguarding and welfare for all interactions.

How to apply

To access the full job description, please click here. Please apply as soon as possible as this vacancy may close early if we receive a high volume of suitable candidates.

Recruitment Agencies

We do not accept unsolicited or speculative candidate details or applications. Any candidates supplied, unless formally requested, will be treated as direct/free candidates.

Job Expiry Date: 2025-09-22 11:00:00