Research Data Scientist

Idaho National Laboratory is hiring a Research Data Scientist. Our team works a 9x80 schedule located out of Idaho Falls, Idaho Falls with every other Friday off.

At Idaho National Laboratory, you’ll analyze data and generate results across cloud, on-premises, and edge-based computational architectures, apply technologies including explainable AI, large language models, and physics-informed machine learning, and develop software including 3D visualization tools, parallel software, and web API solutions in support of research objectives. You’ll work with domain experts to understand the scope of questions data can answer, design output metrics that describe system behavior, collaborate with government agencies, academia, and industry partners, and publish results in peer-reviewed journals and conference proceedings.

Essential Job Functions and Responsibilities:

• Analyze data and generate results in response to data analytics, visualization, and modeling needs on a variety of computational architectures (cloud, on-premises, edge-based).
• Apply advanced technologies, such as Explainable Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning (AI/ML), Large Language Models (LLMs), physics-informed machine learning, systems performance analysis, and/or data sensor fusion methodologies.
• Work with a multi-disciplinary team of scientists and engineers on challenging work scopes.
• Demonstrate effective research skills and the ability to collaborate and partner with other government agencies, academia, and private sector companies to achieve project goals.
• Publish results of research and development in a mix of refereed publications and conference proceedings.
• Work effectively with other research teams to develop and manage cross-cutting technical programs for a variety of customers.
• Develop and maintain notebooks, software, and/or applications.
• Work with software and database developers to develop, test, and deploy software code to development, staging, and production environments.
• Develop software for custom solutions, including but not limited to, 3D visualization tools, parallel software, batch scripting, and web API interaction/development.
• Analyze data quality, characterize, and communicate data quality issues to data providers, and design repeatable data processing procedures to accurately analyze data in the presence of quality issues.
• Work with domain experts to understand the scope and limits of questions that can be answered by data sets, identify key data features as inputs to analysis, and design output metrics that elegantly describe system attributes and behavior.
• Employ specialized methods and state-of-the-art data analysis and modeling tools to support INL’s mission by ensuring the nation’s safe, competitive, and sustainable use of engineered systems in many domains by applying capabilities to impactful issues in risk, reliability, and operational performance.
• Adhere to INL policies and lab-wide procedures related to software development, cybersecurity, and management of sensitive information and data.
• Work with data providers, database administrators, and software developers to diagnose and solve problems with data and software systems quickly and effectively.
• EX3: Secure funding for yourself and others as position progresses into higher levels.

• Levels 2: Bachelor’s degree in data science, engineering, mathematics, computer science, physics, autonomy, artificial intelligence, or related technical discipline. and 2 years of experience. Master’s and 0 years of experience. PhD and 0 years’ experience.
• Level 3: Bachelor’s degree in data science, engineering, mathematics, computer science, physics, autonomy, artificial intelligence, or related technical discipline and 5 years of experience. Master’s and 2 years of experience. PhD and 2 years’ experience.
• Relevant experience determined with the level.
• Experience in data science, data analysis, and software development using Python, C#, Java, or C++.
• Depending on work assignment, obtain and maintain a DOE level “Q” security clearance.
• Depending on work assignment, requires US Citizenship.

The ideal candidate will possess:

• Experience with cloud services and cloud-based analytics (AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud Platform, etc.)
• Experience with SciPy, Notebook IDE, PyTorch, TensorFlow, Cuda, Natural Language Processing Techniques, Graph Databases, Relational Databases, and a general understanding of data storage and processing.
• Experience with version control and repository management (e.g., Git).

Physical Requirements:

While performing the duties of this classification, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, stoop, kneel, bend, use hands to handle materials, manipulate tools, keyboard and type, reach with hands and arms, and operate job related equipment. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Sufficient visual acuity and hearing capacity to perform the essential functions and interact with people is required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions., * The pay range for this position is: Level #2 ($79,344 - $162,732) / Level #3 ($95,256 - $195,288). At Idaho National Laboratory compensation decisions are determined using factors such as education, relevant experience, and other credentials.

• Multi-Level: This is a multi-level posting and you will be placed at the appropriate level dependent on depth and breadth of proven experience and skills.
• TDP: This is a testing designated position; you will be required to submit to a pre-employment drug screen and periodic drug testing throughout the term of your employment.

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Flexible Spending Accounts
• 401(k) with a 4.2% employer contribution and up to 4.8% match (regular positions) or self-contribute access (postdoctoral positions)
• Paid time off (personal leave)
• Employee Education Program (tuition assistance for eligible positions)
• Comprehensive Relocation Package
• Benefit eligibility subject to multiple factors, including employment status and position classification.

At this time, BEA will not sponsor any H1-B visas obtained outside of the United States of America (U.S.A.), including consular visas.

INL is a science-based, applied engineering national laboratory dedicated to supporting the U.S. Department of Energy’s mission in nuclear energy research, science, and national defense. With more than 6,300 scientists, researchers, and support staff, the laboratory works with national and international governments, universities and industry partners to change the world’s energy future and secure our nation’s critical infrastructure.

INL Mission:

Our mission is to discover, demonstrate and secure innovative nuclear energy solutions, other clean energy options and critical infrastructure.

INL Vision:

Our vision is to change the world’s energy future and secure our nation’s critical infrastructure.