[Hiring] Research Data Scientist @Research Triangle Institute

Role Description

A Data Scientist with deep expertise across one or more areas of advanced analytics, spanning artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), generative AI and Large Language Models (LLMs), and natural language processing (NLP) who applies these capabilities to solve problems across the diverse domains where RTI operates, particularly across the full spectrum of health research, from epidemiology, survey research, and public health surveillance to toxicology and molecular-level drug discovery, along with social science, environmental research, economics, and defense. You have a demonstrated track record of applying advanced analytical methods to complex research and operational challenges across multiple domains.

You have developed analytical software approaches ranging from prototypes to production, led projects with multi-disciplinary teams, and communicated complex findings to a wide range of stakeholders, including domain researchers, software developers, federal clients, and peer reviewers. You have experience developing analytical methods and software that meet scientific standards for transparency, validation, and reproducibility, while balancing exploratory research objectives with production delivery requirements.

At this level, you independently lead data science architecture and analytical strategy for projects, actively contribute to business development and proposals, mentor junior data science staff, and represent RTI's analytical capabilities to clients and professional audiences. You operate independently on most technical decisions while collaborating with senior leadership on strategic direction.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree and at least 12 years of experience, or a Master's degree and at least 10 years of experience, or a PhD and at least 6 years of experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Demonstrated expertise in one or more advanced analytics or data science areas, such as AI and machine learning, generative AI and LLMs, NLP, or optimization with experience applying these approaches to complex research or client problems.
• Strong proficiency with modern open-source programming languages used in data science (Python and/or R).
• Working knowledge of shared version control (git).
• Experience using cloud-based analytical environments and collaborating with engineering teams to operationalize analytical or AI/ML workflows (AWS preferred, Azure, Google Cloud Platform, or equivalent).
• Excellent oral, written communication, and presentation skills, including the ability to explain AI system behavior, model limitations, and analytical findings to non-technical researchers and client stakeholders.
• Strong interpersonal, collaboration, and mentoring skills, including the ability to provide technical leadership within multidisciplinary teams.
• Experience contributing to proposals, technical writing, or business development in a research or client-contracting context.
• Ability to analyze macro issues, engage in big-picture strategic thinking, and communicate potential solutions to stakeholders at RTI and beyond.
• To qualify, candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States and should not require, now or in the future, sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g., H-1B visa status, etc.)

Requirements

• Lead the development of machine learning and AI models, including NLP, generative AI and LLM-based systems, and computer vision, as well as decision systems and software applications, using a wide variety of open-source tools and frameworks.
• Lead technical activities spanning data pipeline development and orchestration, data wrangling, ETL processes, exploratory data analysis (EDA), DataOps, MLOps, cloud computing, automation, rapid prototyping, and interactive data visualization.
• Work effectively within multidisciplinary teams of data scientists, data engineers, software developers, designers, and subject matter experts, transitioning seamlessly between leadership and contributor roles as project needs require.
• Lead the development of domain-specific analytical applications by working directly with researchers to identify high-value automation and augmentation opportunities, design solutions, and iterate based on feedback.
• Lead the development of evaluation frameworks for AI and ML systems, including automated regression testing, human-in-the-loop evaluation, cost/quality monitoring, and safety assessment.
• Regularly vet proposal opportunities, participate in opportunity assessments and Capture Teams, serve as Proposal Leader for small to medium sized opportunities, serve as section writer, serve on proposal review teams, and contribute to technical and budget volumes.
• Lead frequent meetings with internal and external clients, translate client needs into data science solutions, and represent RTI's data science and analytical capabilities in professional and scientific settings.
• Lead professional development efforts including presenting at key conferences, contributing to refereed publications (including as first author), writing blog posts and impact stories.
• Mentor data science staff on projects, business development, professional development, and scientific stature.
• Lead internal innovation initiatives and thoughtfully represent data science throughout RTI, including for RTI executives.

Benefits

• Competitive base salary.
• Generous paid time off policy.
• Merit-based annual increases.
• Bonus opportunities.
• Robust recognition program.
• Competitive range of insurance plans (including health, dental, life, and short-term and long-term disability).
• Access to a retirement savings program such as a 401(k) plan.
• Paid parental leave for all parents.
• Financial assistance with adoption expenses or infertility treatments.
• Financial reimbursement for education and developmental opportunities.
• Employee assistance program.
• Numerous other offerings to support a healthy work-life balance.

Company Description

RTI is committed to rewarding individual and team achievement through a total rewards package. This package includes various benefits to support a healthy work-life balance.