Assistant Director of Data Science

Department

BSD CTD - Gen3 SPM

About the Department

The Center for Translational Data Science (CTDS) at the University of Chicago is a research center whose mission is to develop the discipline of translational data science to impactful problems in biology, medicine, healthcare, and the environment. We envision a world in which researchers have ready access to the data needed and the tools required to make data driven discoveries that increase our scientific knowledge and improve the quality of life. We architect ecosystems of large-scale commons of research data, computing resources, applications, tools, and services for the
broader research community to use data at scale to pursue scientific inquiry and accelerate discovery. Learn more at https://gdc.cancer.gov/, https://gen3.org/, https://stats.gen3.org/, and https://ctds.uchicago.edu/.

Job Summary

The Assistant Director of Data Science is part of our leadership team. In this role, you will be responsible for overseeing the development and implementation of various data science initiatives, including those involving data meshes. You will work closely with cross-functional teams to ensure data-driven decision-making and drive innovative solutions. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in data engineering, data science, and a passion for emerging technologies.

This at-will position is wholly or partially funded by contractual grant funding which is renewed under provisions set by the grantor of the contract. Employment will be contingent upon the continued receipt of these grant funds and satisfactory job performance.

Responsibilities

• Lead data science projects and initiatives, providing strategic direction and technical guidance, including those involving data meshes.

• Oversee the development and implementation of data commons and data meshes to ensure efficient and scalable data management, data analysis, data sharing, interoperability, and cost optimization.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including data engineers, data scientists, product managers, and business stakeholders, to identify and prioritize requirements and opportunities for data commons and data meshes.

• Develop and maintain data architectures and frameworks that support data discovery, accessibility, and usability.

• Coordinate with cross functional teams to ensure appropriate security, compliance and governance with relevant regulations and standards.

• Foster a culture of data-driven decision-making and promote the use of machine learning and AI methodologies.  

• Mentor and develop a team of data professionals, providing training, support, and career development opportunities.

• Stay current with industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in data science.

• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources to ensure successful delivery of data initiatives.

• Communicate project progress, results, and insights to stakeholders at all levels of the organization.

• Provides specialized professional expertise in program management. Implements plans for educational programs and initiatives and acts as a liaison between the program and program participants.

• Plans and develops program objectives and/or content. Researches and identifies trends and needs and establishes program directions accordingly.

• Serves as a key resource for program information. Resolves problems or questions referred by program staff, University administrators, or other contingencies.

• Performs other related work as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

Education:

Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.

Work Experience:

Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 7+ years of work experience in a related job discipline.

Certifications:

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Preferred Qualifications

Education:

• Master’s degree in data science, computer science, engineering, or a related field.

Experience:

• 7-10 years of experience in data engineering, data science, or a related field.

• Proven experience in designing, developing, and implementing data architectures, data meshes, and data standards.

• Hands-on experience with data science tools and technologies, such as Python, R, SQL, Hadoop, Spark, TensorFlow, etc.

• Strong experience with data governance, data quality, and regulatory compliance.

• Demonstrated experience in managing and mentoring a team of data professionals.

• Proven track record of successfully delivering complex data projects on time and within budget.

• Experience in working with cross-functional teams and communicating technical concepts to non-technical audiences.

• Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 7+ years of work experience in a related job discipline.

Preferred Competencies

• Advanced knowledge of data engineering and data science principles, practices, and tools.

• Strong understanding of data meshes and their implementation in large-scale organizations.

• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to think critically and strategically.

• Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to mentor and develop team members.

• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to convey complex technical concepts to diverse audiences.

• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and prioritize tasks effectively.

• Strong analytical skills and the ability to translate data insights into actionable recommendations.

• Proficiency in programming languages and data manipulation tools, such as Python, R, SQL, etc.

• Knowledge of machine learning techniques and frameworks, such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, etc.

• Strong understanding of data privacy, security, and regulatory requirements.

Working Conditions

• Hybrid with 1-2 days/week in the office (fully remote optional, but not preferred).

Application Documents

• Resume (required)

• Cover Letter (preferred)

When applying, the document(s) MUST be uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.

Job Family

Administration & Management

Role Impact

Individual Contributor

Scheduled Weekly Hours

40

Drug Test Required

No

Health Screen Required

No

Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required

No

Pay Rate Type

Salary

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FLSA Status

Exempt

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Pay Range

$120,000.00 - $170,000.00

The included pay rate or range represents the University’s good faith estimate of the possible compensation offer for this role at the time of posting.

Benefits Eligible

Yes

The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook.

Posting Statement

The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.

 

Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.

 

All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history.  A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment.  Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.

 

The University of Chicago's Annual Security & Fire Safety Report (Report) provides information about University offices and programs that provide safety support, crime and fire statistics, emergency response and communications plans, and other policies and information. The Report can be accessed online at: http://securityreport.uchicago.edu. Paper copies of the Report are available, upon request, from the University of Chicago Police Department, 850 E. 61st Street, Chicago, IL 60637.