AI and Data Scientist – Food Systems at World Resources Institute (WRI)

In this role you will work in the intersection of cutting-edge research and practical engineering in developing and harnessing earth observation and Geospatial AI to support acceleration of Sustainable agricultural productivity gains in Africa. You will support Food Program’s work in the counties of focus, including Kenya, Rwanda, Ethiopia, DRC and Burundi. You will report to the Regional Lead for Sustainable Improvement of Food Productivity in the Food Program.

• Education: You have a completed master’s degree in Geographic Information Sciences, Geo-Statistics, Remote-Sensing, Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, or a related field with equivalent practical experience in agri-food systems
• Experience: You have 6+ years of relevant full-time work experience
• Proven software engineering skills with a proven track record of industry experience focusing on geospatial and remote sensing data systems
• Expertise with Python code and deep learning frameworks (such as Pytorch & TensorFlow)
• Experience with GIS architect data services in leveraging formats like STAC, Cloud Optimized GeoTiffs and Cloud platforms like Google Earth Engine
• Experience with training deploying accurate Machine Learning Models on cloud platforms in agri-food system decision making
• Experience working with high-performance, large-scale ML systems for distributed training of large geospatial and satellite images
• Ability to collaborate with engineering teams through version control platforms, e.g. GitHub
• Proven ability to think through engineering problems pragmatically, clearly communicate decisions and discuss technical tradeoffs with technical and non-technical audiences
• Experienced in proactive program management
• Experienced in managing complex situations involving numerous and sometimes competing organizational constituencies
• Willingness and ability to carry out field work in Africa and travel internationally
• Experience working with a diverse group of farmers, government officials, and researchers in the field
• Knowledge of remote sensing, image interpretations, and earth observation technologies and methods, time-series analysis, sampling design, and sustainability challenges related to land and natural resource management
• Proven quantitative research and writing skills
• Languages: Verbal and written proficiency in English. Working knowledge of French would be desirable.
• Requirements: Existing work authorization is required at the time of application submission for the position. WRI is unable to sponsor work authorization for this role.