Senior Data Scientist - Advanced Analytics

Placements24; Johannesburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plans

Paid time off

Conferences & workshops access

Job summary

Placements24 represents a leading innovator in scientific research seeking a Senior Data Scientist to join their Johannesburg team. You will apply advanced statistics, machine learning, and data analysis to turn complex datasets into actionable insights that guide strategic decisions and accelerate research progress.

The role involves building models to predict experimental outcomes, conducting rigorous analyses, designing experiments, and communicating results to both technical and

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Statistics, CS, Physics, Mathematics or related discipline is required.
• 5+ years of experience as a Data Scientist or similar analytical role in scientific research.
• Proficiency in Python or R and libraries such as Scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch, Pandas, NumPy.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement advanced ML models to predict experimental outcomes and optimize research parameters.
• Conduct deep statistical analyses of large, complex datasets from experiments.
• Design and run A/B tests and other experimental designs to validate hypotheses.
• Visualize model results and communicate findings to technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Collaborate with researchers and engineers to translate questions into data-driven solutions.
• Mentor junior data scientists and contribute to knowledge sharing.
• Stay updated on progress in data science and related scientific fields.
• Ensure data integrity and robust data governance practices.

Skills

Python

R

SQL

Statistics

Machine learning

Data visualization

Experiment design

Communication

Hybrid work

Cloud computing

Education

Master's or PhD in quantitative field

Tools

Scikit-learn

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Pandas

NumPy

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in scientific research and development, is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Senior Data Scientist to join their dynamic team in Johannesburg, Gauteng . This role is pivotal in driving groundbreaking discoveries through the application of advanced statistical modeling, machine learning, and data analysis techniques. You will be instrumental in transforming complex datasets into actionable insights that inform strategic decisions and accelerate research progress. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of the scientific method and a passion for uncovering patterns in data. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting‑edge projects within a collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement sophisticated machine learning models to predict experimental outcomes and optimize research parameters.
• Conduct in-depth statistical analysis of large, complex datasets generated from scientific experiments.
• Design and execute A/B tests and other experimental designs to validate hypotheses.
• Visualize data and model results to effectively communicate findings to technical and non‑technical stakeholders.
• Collaborate closely with researchers and engineers to identify key research questions and translate them into data‑driven solutions.
• Mentor junior data scientists and contribute to the team's knowledge sharing and skill development.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in data science, machine learning, and relevant scientific fields.
• Ensure data integrity and implement robust data governance practices.

Requirements

• A Master's or Ph.D. degree in a quantitative field such as Statistics, Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, or a related discipline.
• Proven experience (5+ years) as a Data Scientist or in a similar analytical role, with a strong focus on scientific research.
• Expertise in programming languages commonly used in data science, such as Python or R, and associated libraries (e.g., Scikit‑learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch, Pandas, NumPy).
• Proficiency in SQL for data extraction and manipulation.
• Strong understanding of statistical modeling, experimental design, and hypothesis testing.
• Experience with data visualization tools (e.g., Matplotlib, Seaborn, Tableau).
• Excellent problem‑solving skills and the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to explain complex technical concepts clearly.
• Familiarity with cloud computing platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) is a plus.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a hybrid work environment, balancing remote and in‑office collaboration in Johannesburg .

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, comprehensive health insurance, retirement savings plans, and generous paid time off. Employees benefit from ongoing professional development opportunities, including access to conferences and workshops. A stimulating work environment fosters innovation and collaboration, with access to state‑of‑the‑art research facilities. Opportunities for career advancement within a growing organization are abundant. We also provide support for work‑life balance and a vibrant company culture. Join us in pushing the boundaries of scientific knowledge.