Data Scientist

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. Established in 1945, FAO has over 194 member countries and works in more than 130 countries worldwide. The organization aims to achieve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all and ensure that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. FAO's mission is to help eliminate hunger, food insecurity, and malnutrition, and to promote sustainable agriculture and rural development. The organization is committed to environmental sustainability and works towards transforming agrifood systems to be more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable, contributing to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Job Overview:
The scientist" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Data Scientist position at FAO involves providing expertise in data science, information management, and data visualization to support the analysis" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Food Security Analysis Unit (FSAU) and the Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) unit's data management needs. The role requires managing data flows from various sources, ensuring data quality and security, conducting analyses, and developing accessible visual products such as dashboards, reports, and infographics to aid decision-making. The Data Scientist will work closely with project managers and other stakeholders to ensure that the data collected is effectively utilized to inform policies and programs aimed at improving food security and nutrition in Sudan.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Data Scientist will have a range of responsibilities, including:

• Database Management: Setting up, managing, and maintaining robust database systems for storing Food Security, market, livelihoods, and early warning datasets.
• Data Compilation & Analysis: Compiling, analyzing, and interpreting Food Security data from diverse sources, identifying trends and patterns to support various assessments and estimates.
• Geospatial & Remote Sensing Support: Collaborating with specialists to integrate geospatial data and remote sensing analysis into FSAU products for monitoring and analysis.
• Product Development: Developing and disseminating high-quality information products for internal and external audiences.
• MEAL Unit Support: Serving as the administrator for FAO Sudan's KOBO Toolbox platform, managing form development, user management, and server maintenance.
• Data Management & Quality Assurance: Collecting, compiling, and verifying beneficiary and MEAL study data, implementing data cleaning and quality checks.
• Data Security and Protection: Ensuring compliance with data privacy and security policies.
• Dashboard Development: Designing and maintaining interactive dashboards to visualize MEAL data and track program indicators.
• Supporting the setup and maintenance of other information management systems as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in Data Science, Statistics, Computer Science, Information Management, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), or a related field. Additionally, at least 5 years of relevant experience in data management, statistical analysis, database administration, and information management is required. Candidates should also have a working knowledge of English and Arabic, and must be nationals of Sudan.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in fields related to data science, statistics, computer science, information management, or geographic information systems (GIS). This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of data analysis and management in the context of food security and agricultural development.

Experience:
The position requires at least 5 years of relevant experience in data management, statistical analysis, database administration, and information management. This experience should ideally include working with geospatial analysis software, statistical software, and data visualization tools, as well as managing mobile data collection platforms.

Languages:
Candidates must have a working knowledge (Level C) of both English and Arabic. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication and collaboration within the organization and with stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
FAO does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process. Applications received after the closing date will not be accepted. FAO only considers higher educational qualifications obtained from accredited institutions recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED). The appointment will be subject to certification of medical fitness, accreditation, residency or visa requirements, and security clearances.