Data Scientist

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group is a prominent global institution established to provide funding and knowledge to developing countries. It is a unique partnership comprising five institutions dedicated to eradicating extreme poverty, enhancing shared prosperity, and promoting sustainable development. With a membership of 189 countries and over 120 offices worldwide, the World Bank collaborates with both public and private sector partners to invest in innovative projects. The organization leverages data, research, and technology to devise solutions for pressing global challenges, making it a key player in international development. For more information, visit www.worldbank.org.

Job Overview:
The scientist" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Data Scientist position within the World Bank's Trade Unit (ETIRI) is pivotal in enhancing the analytical capacity of the organization, particularly in the context of trade policy and facilitation. The role is designed to address the increasing digitization of trade transactions and supply chains by utilizing Big Data and machine learning techniques. The successful candidate will engage in analytical and technical assistance at both global and country levels, contributing to the World Bank Group’s trade policy program. This involves working on significant projects, conducting research, and developing new knowledge products that can be integrated into country-specific work. The Data Scientist will also play a crucial role in knowledge sharing and dissemination activities, ensuring that insights and findings are effectively communicated to stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The successful candidate will be responsible for a variety of tasks aimed at broadening and deepening the World Bank Group’s trade policy program. Key responsibilities include: contributing to analytical studies that utilize big data, such as the Logistics Performance Index (LPI); maintaining and updating large datasets in collaboration with external providers; implementing big data pipelines for processing diverse data sets to generate insights; supporting trade team members in producing research and preparing reproducibility packages; developing new knowledge products and tools for analytical work; engaging in policy dialogue with client countries and participating in lending projects; preparing briefs, presentations, and policy notes for various audiences; organizing and contributing to knowledge sharing activities, conferences, and workshops; expanding partnerships with other organizations in big data analytics; and supporting the Practice Manager with corporate demands and quality control of deliverables. Additionally, the candidate will present the team’s work at knowledge exchange events.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's or advanced degree in a relevant field such as data science, economics, or trade, along with a minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience in data science. Alternatively, a PhD in a relevant field with at least 2 years of professional experience is acceptable. Applicants should demonstrate professional experience in trade-related analytics, strong analytical and organizational skills, and the ability to conduct independent quantitative research. Proficiency in Python and its common packages (e.g., NumPy, Pandas, scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch) is required, along with familiarity with GIS and database languages like SQL. Experience in big data processing tools such as Databricks or PySpark is essential, as is experience with workflow management and code versioning tools like GitHub. Candidates should also have experience implementing machine learning techniques, a strong understanding of the data life cycle, and the ability to work effectively in a team environment under tight deadlines.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's or advanced degree in fields such as data science, economics, or trade. Candidates with a PhD in a relevant field are also considered, provided they have the requisite professional experience. The educational qualifications should reflect a strong foundation in quantitative analysis and data handling, which is critical for the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience in data science, particularly in the context of trade analytics. Candidates with a PhD may qualify with at least 2 years of relevant experience. The experience should demonstrate a solid understanding of trade-related issues and the ability to apply analytical skills to real-world problems.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is English. Proficiency in additional languages is preferred but not required, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role with a term duration of 3 years. It involves international recruitment, indicating that candidates from various countries are encouraged to apply. The World Bank Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, including a retirement plan, medical, life and disability insurance, paid leave (including parental leave), and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. The organization is committed to being an equal opportunity and inclusive employer, ensuring that all individuals are treated fairly regardless of gender, gender identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.