Senior Data Scientist

RAND is a not-for-profit research institute with over 30 years of experience in conducting policy research for governments, international organisations, research councils, charitable foundations, and other organisations. We believe that good research helps shape sound answers to pressing societal challenges, ultimately making communities safer and more secure, healthier and more prosperous in the future. RAND Europe has offices in Cambridge, Brussels and Rotterdam and employs approximately 170 staff.

The research groups in RAND Europe boast a diverse portfolio, addressing key public policy challenges such as education and child welfare, health and wellbeing, geopolitical competition and national security, environment and climate change, technological innovation and disruption, among many others. Our team, comprising individuals from various nationalities and professional backgrounds, is dedicated to advancing innovative approaches to address pressing societal issues.

We are now seeking a Data Scientist to enhance our cross-research group data science capabilities. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in delivering tools to support our research which shaping public policy research, influencing high-level government decision-making in the UK, the European Union, and globally. This role offers the chance to engage in intellectually stimulating work within a dynamic and diverse team, tackling a broad spectrum of topics, and employing cutting-edge methods, including AI/ML.

We welcome applications from a range of experience levels, from those slightly below to those exceeding our criteria.

Responsibilities

• Spearhead project delivery and research tool development within the research group portfolios, emphasising the integration of data-driven evidence.
• Coordinate complex projects, mentor a team of talented data scientists and researchers, and drive the impact of our work through strategic communication and outreach.
• Utilise a broad spectrum of data science skills and remain committed to continuous learning and methodological innovation.
• Lead and support impactful R&D, mentor staff, and expand our research scope.
• Drive business development, manage proposals, and cultivate funding relationships.
• Collaborate with the leadership teams to shape research strategy and contribute to RAND Europe's broader objectives.

Essential

• Expertise in data science and quantitative methods (e.g., statistical analysis, machine learning, causal inference, simulation modelling, network analysis, econometrics, natural language processing, use of large language models etc.)
• Strong project management skills, including budgeting and team leadership.
• Exceptional analytical, writing, and presentation abilities, with a knack for conveying complex concepts to diverse audiences.
• A track record of collaborative research and team motivation, with a focus on skills and career development.
• Higher Degree in a quantitative research discipline.
• Ability to explain quantitative research to non-specialists and integrate it into mixed-methods projects including non-technical team members.
• Proven project delivery within time and budget constraints.
• Interest in public policy areas and collaborative research delivery.

Desirable

• Additional technical skills (e.g., general coding skills, data mining, dashboard and tool development, data management, data visualisation etc.).
• Experience applying data science methods and tools to support policy research and/or social sciences research
• Eligibility for UK Security Clearance (SC) or Developed Vetting (DV).

Personal Qualities:

• Strategic and analytical thinker with a practical perspective.
• Networking and presentation skills to foster relationships and secure funding.
• Team-oriented with a commitment to rigorous research and public service.
• Eagerness to learn, contribute to team development, and embrace new challenges.

This role is based in our Cambridge office however we offer a hybrid working model asking staff to attend the office a minimum of once a week. There is occasional travel, primarily to London and Brussels.

(We can also consider offering this role based out of our Brussels or Netherlands office.)

Please see our careers page for associate benefits for each location

How to Apply

If you believe you are suited to the above role, please submit an application comprising of a CV and covering letter. Closing date for applications is Sunday 10th November 2024

If you have not been contacted within 30 days of application deadline, please assume your application has not been successful.