Lead Data Scientist - AI & Machine Learning for Scientific Research

Placements24; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 2,470,000 - 3,787,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Stock options

Health insurance

Professional development budget

Equipment provided

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a visionary Lead Data Scientist to pioneer AI and ML initiatives in a fully remote-first setting. You will architect and deploy scalable ML models for complex scientific data, collaborating with a distributed team of world-class researchers.

The role requires 8+ years in data science, advanced degrees, and strong Python/R expertise with TensorFlow/PyTorch. Remote collaboration, leadership, and excellent communication are essential.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Computer Science, Data Science, Statistics, or related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in data science with a focus on AI/ML.
• Demonstrated success in leading data science projects from conception to deployment.
• Expertise in Python or R and ML libraries such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, Scikit-learn.
• Strong experience with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) and big data tech (Spark, Hadoop).
• Ability to work independently and in a distributed remote team.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Passion for scientific research and impact.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, and deployment of advanced AI/ML models for scientific data analysis.
• Identify opportunities to apply ML to solve complex research problems and extract insights.
• Develop scalable data pipelines and model deployment strategies in the cloud.
• Collaborate with research scientists to understand data challenges and provide solutions.
• Mentor and guide junior data scientists and engineers in the remote team.
• Stay updated on AI/ML advancements and relevant scientific fields.
• Communicate complex findings effectively to stakeholders.
• Champion best practices in data science, coding, and reproducibility.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Research mindset

Independent work

Python

R

ML libraries

Education

Master's or PhD in CS/DS/Stats

Tools

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Scikit-learn

Spark

Hadoop

Job description

About the Role This is a unique opportunity for a visionary Lead Data Scientist to pioneer advanced AI and Machine Learning initiatives within a fully remote-first environment. Our client is at the forefront of scientific innovation and seeks a seasoned professional to drive the application of data science in complex research challenges. You will be responsible for conceptualizing, developing, and deploying sophisticated ML models that unlock new insights from vast scientific datasets. Operating from anywhere in the world, you will collaborate with a distributed team of world-class scientists and engineers, pushing the boundaries of what's possible. This role demands a blend of deep technical expertise, strategic thinking, and a passion for scientific advancement. If you thrive in a remote setting and are driven by complex problem-solving, this position in Cape Town, Western Cape, ZA (though remote) offers an unparalleled career trajectory.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of advanced AI and ML models for scientific data analysis.
• Identify opportunities to apply machine learning techniques to solve complex research problems and generate actionable insights.
• Develop scalable data pipelines and model deployment strategies in a cloud environment.
• Collaborate with research scientists to understand their data challenges and provide data-driven solutions.
• Mentor and guide junior data scientists and engineers within the remote team.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in AI, ML, and relevant scientific fields.
• Communicate complex technical findings effectively to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Champion best practices in data science, coding, and model reproducibility.

Requirements

• Master's or PhD in Computer Science, Data Science, Statistics, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in data science, with a significant focus on AI and Machine Learning.
• Demonstrated success in leading data science projects from conception to deployment.
• Expertise in programming languages such as Python or R, and relevant ML libraries (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch, Scikit-learn).
• Strong experience with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) and big data technologies (Spark, Hadoop).
• Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively in a remote team setting.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a track record of presenting complex information clearly.
• A passion for scientific research and a drive to make a significant impact.
• Experience with analyzing diverse scientific datasets is highly desirable.

Benefits

As a remote-first organization, our client offers unparalleled flexibility and autonomy. This role includes a highly competitive salary package, potential for stock options, and a generous annual bonus structure. We provide a comprehensive health insurance plan, a retirement savings contribution, and a professional development budget for continuous learning and conference participation. The company culture fosters innovation, collaboration, and work-life balance. Equipment and software necessary for high-performance remote work are fully provided. Enjoy the freedom to work from anywhere while contributing to groundbreaking scientific discoveries.