Senior Research Scientist – Data Analytics & Machine Learning

Placements24; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary + bonuses

Health insurance

Pension plan

Development budget

Computational resources

Collaborative environment

Sabbaticals

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Research Scientist in Cape Town to lead data analytics and machine learning initiatives. You will design methodologies, deploy advanced ML models, and translate results into practical applications across teams.

The role requires a PhD and 6–8 years of post-doctoral experience, with strong coding skills in Python or R and experience with TensorFlow/PyTorch. Expect collaboration, mentoring, and opportunity to publish.

Qualifications

• PhD or equivalent in a quantitative field (CS/Statistics/Math).
• 6-8+ years of post-doctoral research experience in data analytics and ML.
• Proven ability to develop and deploy ML models (e.g., DL, NLP, RL).
• Strong programming skills in Python or R; proficient with ML libraries (TF, PyTorch, scikit-learn).
• Experience with big data tools (Spark, Hadoop).
• Excellent analytical, statistical, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong publication record; effective communication and leadership capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead research initiatives in data analytics and ML, defining scope and objectives.
• Develop and implement advanced ML models for diverse applications.
• Perform data mining, cleaning, and transformation on large datasets.
• Analyze experiments, interpret results, and provide actionable insights.
• Collaborate with engineering and product teams to integrate research outcomes into products.
• Publish findings in top-tier journals and present at conferences.
• Mentor junior researchers and data analysts.
• Stay updated on ML, AI, and data science advancements.
• Contribute to research proposals and funding opportunities.
• Ensure ethical application of data analytics and ML techniques.

Skills

Python

R

Machine Learning

Statistics

Data Visualization

Leadership

Mentoring

Education

PhD in CS/Statistics/Math

Tools

TensorFlow

PyTorch

scikit-learn

Spark

Hadoop

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovation hub located in Cape Town, Western Cape , is seeking a highly skilled Senior Research Scientist specializing in Data Analytics and Machine Learning . This pivotal role involves leading advanced research projects focused on extracting actionable insights from complex datasets and developing predictive models. You will be responsible for designing research methodologies, implementing cutting-edge machine learning algorithms, interpreting results, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to translate findings into practical applications. The ideal candidate possesses a strong theoretical foundation in statistics and machine learning, coupled with practical experience in applying these techniques to real-world problems. You will contribute to a vibrant research environment, mentor junior scientists, and publish your work in leading conferences and journals. This position offers a unique opportunity to shape data-driven strategies and advance the field of artificial intelligence within a dynamic and forward-thinking organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead research initiatives in data analytics and machine learning, defining project scope and objectives.
• Develop and implement advanced machine learning models and algorithms for various applications.
• Perform complex data mining, cleaning, and transformation tasks on large and diverse datasets.
• Analyze experimental results, interpret findings, and provide actionable insights and recommendations.
• Collaborate with engineering and product teams to integrate research outcomes into product development.
• Publish research findings in top-tier scientific journals and present at international conferences.
• Mentor and guide junior research scientists and data analysts.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in machine learning, AI, and data science.
• Contribute to the development of research proposals and secure external funding opportunities.
• Ensure the ethical application of data analytics and machine learning techniques.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 6-8 years of post-doctoral research experience in data analytics and machine learning.
• Proven expertise in developing and deploying various machine learning models (e.g., deep learning, natural language processing, reinforcement learning).
• Strong programming skills in languages such as Python or R, and experience with ML libraries (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch, scikit-learn).
• Experience with big data technologies and platforms (e.g., Spark, Hadoop).
• Excellent analytical, statistical, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong publication record in relevant academic venues.
• Effective communication and presentation skills, with the ability to explain complex technical concepts to diverse audiences.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and lead research projects.
• Experience in mentoring junior researchers is a significant advantage.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous pension plan and long-term incentive programs.
• Significant budget for professional development, including conferences and training.
• Access to cutting-edge computational resources and datasets.
• A collaborative and intellectually stimulating research environment.
• Opportunities for sabbaticals and research leaves.
• Relocation assistance available.