Lead Data Scientist - Scientific Computing

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement contributions

Generous paid time off

Access to cutting-edge computational资源

Professional growth through training &

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Data Scientist to spearhead scientific computing initiatives in a hybrid setup at Stellenbosch, Western Cape. The role combines building predictive models with extracting actionable insights from large, complex datasets.

You will mentor junior staff, collaborate with researchers, and help shape data science strategy while working across disciplines in a stimulating environment.

Qualifications

• PhD or Master’s in data science, statistics, CS, physics, or related field.
• Minimum 6 years of experience applying analytical techniques to scientific problems.
• Proficiency in Python or R and ML libraries; strong statistical modeling.
• Experience with big data technologies and databases.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and deployment of data science projects.
• Build and validate statistical and ML models for research.
• Analyze large-scale datasets to identify trends and insights.
• Collaborate with researchers across domains to solve data challenges.
• Develop data visualization tools and communicate findings.
• Mentor junior data scientists and analysts.
• Guide tool and platform selection for data science initiatives.
• Ensure reproducibility and integrity of analyses.

Skills

Python

R

Data analysis

ML frameworks

Big data

Education

PhD or Master’s

Quantitative field

Tools

scikit-learn

TensorFlow

PyTorch

SQL/NoSQL

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking research institute, is looking for an experienced Lead Data Scientist to spearhead their scientific computing initiatives. This position offers a hybrid work arrangement, allowing for flexibility between remote work and on-site collaboration at our advanced facilities in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, ZA . You will be responsible for developing and implementing sophisticated data analysis strategies, building predictive models, and extracting actionable insights from large, complex scientific datasets across various disciplines. This role demands a blend of strong statistical acumen, machine learning expertise, and excellent communication skills to bridge the gap between data and scientific discovery.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of data science projects, from problem definition to model deployment.
• Design, build, and validate statistical and machine learning models for scientific research.
• Analyze and interpret large-scale datasets, identifying trends, patterns, and anomalies.
• Collaborate with researchers across different scientific domains to understand their data challenges and provide solutions.
• Develop data visualization tools and dashboards to effectively communicate complex findings.
• Mentor and guide junior data scientists and analysts.
• Contribute to the selection and implementation of appropriate data science tools and platforms.
• Ensure the reproducibility and integrity of data analysis processes.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Data Science, Statistics, Computer Science, Physics, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in data science, with a proven track record of applying advanced analytical techniques to scientific problems.
• Expertise in programming languages such as Python or R, and proficiency with relevant data science libraries (e.g., scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch).
• Strong understanding of statistical modeling, machine learning algorithms, and experimental design.
• Experience with big data technologies and databases (SQL, NoSQL).
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to think critically and creatively.
• Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to explain complex technical concepts to diverse audiences.
• Experience working in a hybrid environment, balancing remote and on-site responsibilities effectively.

Benefits

We offer a highly competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement contributions, and generous paid time off.

• health insurance
• retirement contributions
• generous paid time off
• access to cutting-edge computational resources
• opportunities for professional growth through training and conferences
• a stimulating research environment

Employees have access to cutting-edge computational resources, opportunities for professional growth through training and conferences, and a stimulating research environment. Join a team dedicated to pushing the boundaries of scientific knowledge and contributing to impactful research from our beautiful Stellenbosch campus and home offices.