IT Pro 2-Data Science

Date: Application review will begin July 8 . This position is open for application until filled
Classification & Title: 9702DS, IT Pro 2 - Data Science
Working Title: GEMS Data Scientist
Percent time: 100% Full-time
Term: 12 month continuing appointment, annually renewable
Department: GEMS Informatics Center
Reports to: Kevin Silverstein
Campus location: Cargill Building, St. Paul Campus

PROGRAM / UNIT DESCRIPTION
The GEMS Informatics Initiative, a joint CFANS and MSI (Minnesota Supercomputing Institute)
agri-food informatics initiative of the University of Minnesota, is supported by a highly diverse
international and interdisciplinary team of professionals. GEMS is re-imagining the relationships
between data, institutions, and disciplines to inform and accelerate innovation within the food
and agricultural sectors. GEMS makes genomics, environmental, management, and
socioeconomic data inter-operable at varying spatial and temporal scales to generate actionable
information and promote new innovation partnerships that accelerates and sustains growth in
local and global food and agricultural systems. In CFANS, the initiative is directed by the GEMS
Informatics Center.

GEMS has five program areas:
1. GEMS Platform: Data sharing and analysis platform
2. GEMS Sensing: Field-based IoT (Internet of Things) sensors and data services
3. GEMS Exchange: Data streaming services via interoperable APIs
4. GEMS Learning: Digital and data science education
5. GEMS Solutions: Consulting services

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES
We require a capable and creative data scientist with extensive experience in machine learning
utilizing large-scale spatial data sets. Candidates should have dual facility with professional
programming practices and also with data analysis that include the Genetics x Environment x
Management x Socioeconomic domains that GEMS covers. In this role, he/she will spend most of the time translating conceptual predictive analytic tasks into practical machine learning
solutions. Given the data-centric nature of this position, a strong facility with ML algorithms and
computational methodology will be critical.
80% Conducting data analysis to extract knowledge and insights from complex, high
dimensional and/or high-volume data sets.

• Collaborating with stakeholders (primarily PepsiCo and Minnesota Department of
  Agriculture) to define and document business needs and requirements.
• Preparing data streams for use in predictive analytic applications.
• Identifying, examining, and analyzing the processes, procedures, and work
  practices of the problem at hand to efficiently meet project requirements.
• Utilizing project management techniques, principles, and methodologies to
  devise project plans, allocate resources, and oversee project execution.
• Applying cutting-edge machine learning algorithms toward applications in the
  agrifood sector using temporal and spatial data such as remote sensing, ground
  sensing, phenotypic and socio-economic data.
• Engaging in the process of writing code, utilizing Python language's versatile
  syntax to create efficient and functional programs. Additionally, tackling the
  crucial task of debugging and troubleshooting, skillfully identifying, and resolving
  errors and ensuring the smooth operation and optimal performance of the
  developed code using techniques like code review.
• At the end of the project, deploying the machine learning code through suitable
  approaches such as standalone application, web service/API, containerization,
  edge deployment, etc. while ensuring acceptable quality and integrity of the
  system.
• Identifying and assessing ineffective processes, suggesting alternative methods
  such as modifying or developing new procedures to aid and investigate complex
  computational problems in agri-food research.

20% Preparing reports based on analytic findings that propose changes in existing
practices, highlighting the limitations of the analysis methods.

• Serving as a primary point of reference and information, offering guidance and
  support in the decision-making process of system projects.
• Composing technical documentation for purposes of reference and reporting.

Qualifications

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
BA/BS plus at least two years of experience, or master's degree in Data Science,
Computer Science, Statistics or related field
Experience working with structured/unstructured data/ time series data, applying
statistical techniques and reporting results.
Advanced proficiency in Python and R
Experience with geospatial libraries such as geopandas and xarray, machine learning
libraries such as Tensorflow, Keras, scikit-learn and visualization libraries such as
seaborne
High degree of comfort working within the UNIX/LINUX shell environment.
Excellent oral and written communication skills
Able to work independently with periodic guidance

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Masters degree in related field and 2+ years of data science experience such as working
with structured/unstructured data/ time series data, applying statistical techniques and
reporting results
Experience working on projects involving the agricultural, biological or environmental
sciences
Experience in batch scheduled environments (slurm, torque, SGE, etc.)
Proficiency in SQL
Experience with git or similar source control management system.
Experience developing end to end machine learning systems
Demonstrated attention to detail and proactivity
Strong inclination to collaborate in a team environment

Benefits

Working at the University

At the University of Minnesota, you'll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning. We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefits.

How To Apply

Applications must be submitted online, and include a cover letter and resume or CV. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail [redacted] or call ([redacted].

Diversity

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Employment Requirements

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

About the U of M

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).