Research Data Scientist

Position Overview Research Data Scientist – Geospatial Data Science team, Applied Research unit at ARL, Penn State. The role supports defense, law enforcement, security, disaster relief, human geography, and first response projects. Location: State College, PA. Remote or hybrid work is not guaranteed. Responsibilities Lead programs and teams within a highly collaborative environment. Collaborate with geospatial data analysts to understand and automate workflows, improving human processes to advance discovery and modeling of associations, trends, patterns, and system dynamics. Support the creation of processes and algorithms to transform traditional GEOINT and open‑source data into spatiotemporal information describing places, events, and activities. Combine full spectrum source data with modeling capabilities that associate real‑world objects to known signatures and doctrines. Develop the ability to discover and capture information from geospatial data to better represent advanced understanding of world events, systems, and discrete entities. Apply the scientific method across multiple disciplines to advance data and geospatial sciences and develop data analytics through systematic experimentation. Support scientific research projects and develop geospatial algorithms while collaborating among diverse domains to further scientific understanding and the use of analytic tools. Grow in career and capabilities, plan and conduct applied research, provide technical guidance and oversight, lead small‑to‑medium research efforts, report results, foster trusted relationships with sponsors, and advise on new and evolving technology and techniques. Engage in research efforts ranging from proof‑of‑concept through integrated production systems. Qualifications Required Skills and Knowledge: Relevant work in Data Sciences, Computer Sciences, or Geospatial Sciences. Experience working within DoD/IC analysis or operational environments. Ability to design experiments, perform analysis, and apply meaningful metrics to measure results. Adaptability to learn new skills and execute specific research projects under task deadlines and goals. Computer programming proficiency in Python, R, Java, C++, or MATLAB. Highly adaptable, creative, lateral thinkers who enjoy a collaborative environment. Excellent communication, dependable, responsive, curious, and collaborative interpersonal skills. Active TS/SCI clearance (preferred). Preferred Skills and Knowledge: Doctorate degree. Experience with Git and GUI development. Open‑source scientific computation, computer vision, modeling, or machine learning tools. High‑performance computing experience. Minimum Education and Experience: Bachelor’s Degree with 3+ years of relevant experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Required Certifications: None. Background Checks / Clearances All positions require successful completion of background checks, drug screening, and a government security clearance. Successful completion of a background check in accordance with University policies and a pre‑employment drug screen is required. Candidates must be U.S. citizens and will need to obtain or maintain a government security clearance; notification will occur during the interview process. Salary & Benefits Salary range: $76,700.00 – $115,100.00. The range may be impacted by geographic differential. Full‑time employees receive a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage; robust retirement plans; paid time off (holidays, vacation, sick days); and a generous 75% tuition discount for employees and eligible spouses and children. ARL Purpose ARL’s purpose is to research and develop innovative solutions to challenging scientific, engineering, and technology problems in support of the Navy, the Intel Community (IC), and other federal government customers. EEO Statement EEO IS THE LAW Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact View phone number on click.appcast.io. #J-18808-Ljbffr