Data Scientist

Job Description:

The WALTHAM Petcare Science Institute is Mars Petcare's fundamental science centre that drives quality and innovation for our global brands in pet nutrition, pet health and pet care. We follow a scientific and data-driven approach based on experimental data generated at WALTHAM, and on big data from genetic testing, activity monitors and electronic health records. Mining these connected data sets with advance analytical methods allows us to generate new insights giving Mars Petcare a competitive advantage and helping us to make a better world for pets.

The data scientist position is embedded in WALTHAM's data analytics team. The main task is to contribute to the planning, execution and delivery of data science projects in a collaborative environment. We expect the role holder to bring relevant expertise and experience in data analysis, including statistical modelling and machine learning, to communicate effectively on progress and results to a variety of audiences.

In addition, we expect the job holder to advocate for data-driven research, to be able to work both independently and collaboratively at high level of quality, and to contribute to shaping the development of the portfolio of data science projects. Example projects include using electronic health records to develop risk models for a variety of diseases and developing tools to improve quality of care in veterinary practice.

The nature of the job demands that the data scientist should be able to communicate technical information at an appropriate level to associates with a wide range of prior knowledge and ability. Therefore, excellent verbal/written communication and interpersonal skills are essential for this role. The jobholder will undertake continual personal development of both a practical and theoretical nature and will attend appropriate courses/symposia/conferences to maintain awareness of developments in scientific research and technology.

• PhD or master's degree with equivalent relevant experience in Statistics, Computer Science, Mathematics or a related field
• Experience in statistical modelling and machine learning and their practical applications, driving positive change through data-driven decision making and their applications.
• Understanding of statistical principles related to sampling, bias, inference and prediction.
• Ability to solve problems considering all constraints, context and risks.
• Solid knowledge of R or Python and related packages for data processing, visualisation and analysis.
• Awareness of techniques for querying and processing large data sets (Spark, SQL) and big data platforms (Azure).
• Understanding of coding best practices including clean, modular code, reproducibility, testing and version control (GitHub).
• Ability to effectively communicate complex data science verbally and through written materials to a variety of audiences.

• Execute data science projects in a collaborative environment, taking responsibility for data analysis, including statistical modelling and machine learning, and data management and reporting with a repeatable, interpretable and scalable approach.
• Work with key stakeholders across the organisation to deliver value-adding data science projects across Mars Petcare.
• Advocate for and educate on the purpose of data-driven research and work to high scientific standards, adhering to technical best practices and ways of working.
• Maintain an up-to-date knowledge of data modelling, analysis and data management methods and tools.
• Develop relationships with key functional teams across the organisation.
• Effectively communicate to a variety of audiences to share work or expertise, and communication of results and learnings via written reports and publications.

• Work with diverse and talented Associates, all guided by the Five Principles.
• Join a purpose driven company, where we're striving to build the world we want tomorrow, today.
• Best-in-class learning and development support from day one, including access to our in-house Mars University.
• An industry competitive salary and benefits package, including company bonus.

Mars is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. If you need assistance or an accommodation during the application process because of a disability, it is available upon request. The company is pleased to provide such assistance, and no applicant will be penalized as a result of such a request.