Researcher - Data Science (Globally Recruited)

The International Water Management Institute (IWMI), a CGIAR Research Center, is seeking a dynamic and technically skilled Data Scientist to lead impactful research and contribute to global water security from our headquarters in Colombo, Sri Lanka as a Researcher – Data Science.

This is an internationally recruited position; therefore, individuals with relevant abilities from diverse locations around the world are encouraged to apply. The successful candidate can be based in Sri Lanka; however, remote working may be considered if telecommuting from a time zone within a 4-hour difference from Sri Lanka.

As a Researcher – Data Science, you will be part of the Water Futures Data & Analytics Research Group, which integrates cutting-edge technologies such as AI, machine learning, and computer vision to drive IWMI’s vision of a water-secure world.

This role is ideal for an AI professional with expertise in Generative AI, machine learning, cloud computing, MLOps, and AI deployment.

The Researcher – Data Science will lead the design, development, and deployment of AI models for water management applications while ensuring scalability, efficiency, and seamless integration with IWMI’s data systems through end-to-end AI pipelines. The incumbent will collaborate with stakeholders and interdisciplinary teams to translate research into practical solutions and contribute to the advancement of data-driven decision-making tools for sustainable water resources.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

AI Model Development & Technical Implementation;

• Develop machine learning, forecasting, and generative AI models for hydrology and environmental applications.
• Work with large-scale geospatial, hydrological, and sensor datasets to improve predictive capabilities.
• Optimize cloud-based AI workflows using AWS, Azure, or GCP.
• Deploy AI solutions for water data processing, risk analysis, and sustainability modeling

AI Deployment & MLOps;

• Implement end-to-end AI pipelines with best practices in MLOps & model versioning.
• Use Docker, MLFlow, and Databricks for scalable and automated AI workflows.
• Maintain model performance, accuracy, and continuous retraining for real-world applications.

Data Science & Open Data Integration;

• Support the integration of AI models into IWMI’s open data platforms and digital infrastructure.
• Work with remote sensing, GIS, and hydrological models to enhance AI-driven decision support systems.
• Ensure FAIR data principles (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) are applied in all AI solutions.

Collaboration & Research Advancement;

• Work closely with data engineers, hydrologists, and policymakers to develop impactful AI-driven tools.
• Mentor early career researchers and data scientists in best practices for AI and cloud-based data science.
• Contribute to scientific publications, funding proposals, and strategic research initiatives.

Requirements

EDUCATIONAL QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE:

Essential:

• PhD in AI, Data Science, Machine Learning, or closely related field, coupled with a minimum of 5 years of relevant post-doctoral experience; OR Master’s degree in the aforementioned fields, with a minimum of 10 years of relevant experience.
• Strong experience in AI & ML (forecasting, Generative AI, LLMs, NLP, predictive modelling).
• Experience deploying AI solutions in real-world projects & industries.
• Technical leadership experience including guiding small teams in AI/ML implementation.

Desirable:

• Experience with AI for remote sensing & hydrology models.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

Essential:

• Proficiency in Python & AI frameworks (PyTorch, TensorFlow, OpenAI APIs, Hugging Face).
• Understanding of digital twins, GIS, and environmental AI applications.
• Expertise in Cloud computing (Azure ML, AWS, Databricks, Docker, MLFlow).

Desirable:

• Familiarity with MLOps & AI ethics for water management.
• Ability to engage with non-technical stakeholders & explain AI concepts.

Benefits

This is an internationally recruited position with a competitive salary, an attractive retirement plan, comprehensive international health insurance, life insurance accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) insurance, and long-term disability coverage. Internationally recruited staff who are employed at a duty station outside of their home base/country of nationality will also receive relocation assistance and housing allowance. The duration of the contract will initially be for a period of one year.

HOW TO APPLY: Apply for the position by following the application instructions at www.iwmi.org/jobs. We will be accepting applications through 24:00 (IST) on April 09, 2025 (applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis). Your application must include a CV, cover letter, and three (3) references, which may be contacted if you are shortlisted. Receipt of all applications will be acknowledged, but only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

IWMI believes that diversity powers our innovation, contributes to our excellence, and is critical for our mission. We offer a multi-cultural, multi-color, multi-generational and multi-disciplinary working environment. We are consciously creating an inclusive organization that reflects our global character and our commitment to gender equity. We, therefore, encourage applicants from all cultures, races, ethnicities, religions, sexes, national or regional origins, ages, disability status, sexual orientations, and gender identities.