Data Specialist

Data Specialist

The Department of Data Science at William & Mary is devoted to the study and application of data-centered approaches to inquiry, analysis, and communication. The department supports students in developing the skills needed to work thoughtfully with data in a range of contexts, including those shaped by emerging tools in artificial intelligence. Through its teaching, scholarship, and mentorship, the department contributes to the liberal education of undergraduates and the training of graduate students. Faculty offer courses, seminars, directed research, and independent study that foster analytical thinking, technical competence, and clear communication, while also encouraging students to consider the ethical and societal dimensions of data-driven and AI-assisted inquiry. The department offers a B.S. in Data Science, a minor in Data Science, and contributes to the advising and mentoring of Ph.D. students. This person will help the Department of Data Science build a unit-wide process for cross-lab information collection, sharing, and distribution.

Primary responsibilities include:

• Identifying key studies, activities and projects ongoing within the Department from publications, discussions and surveys.
• Generating database records that adhere to specific standards.
• Synthesizing information to write a narrative explanation of activities that may bridge multiple research groups.
• Performing targeted online searching and engage in discussions to fill key information gaps.
• Identifying potential collaborative opportunities.
• Attending check-in meetings to report progress and communicating with Data Science staff and other researchers.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's Degree or comparable education, training, and/or equivalent experience.
• Strong written communication skills.
• Strong work ethic with effective time management skills
• Strong attention to detail and well-developed critical thinking skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Ability to conduct research in Chinese and other languages commonly used by Computer and Data Science experts.
• Experience working with platforms such as LinkedIn or other web-based outreach platforms.
• Interest in machine learning and artificial intelligence.

Conditions of Employment:

• This is a restricted position, subject to the continued availability of funding.
• All hourly employees are subject to the limitations of the Virginia Manpower Control Program and total hours worked may not exceed, on average, 29 hours per week, over the course of a twelve-month period beginning May 1 each year.

Duties:

45%- Information Synthesis:

• Analyze and synthesize information drawn from academic articles and datasets and prepare concise written summaries for internal reference as well as materials intended for external audiences.
• Produce clear, concise written summaries that translate technical content into accessible narratives for a variety of audiences, including internal stakeholders and external partners.
• Integrate information across multiple research groups to highlight interdisciplinary connections and emerging areas of collaboration.
• Support the creation of reports, briefs, and web-ready content that showcase departmental research activities and impact.
• Identify gaps, inconsistencies, or ambiguities in collected information and proactively pursue clarification through additional research or stakeholder engagement.

40%- Data Collection:

• Identify, gather, and manage relevant information from academic publications and datasets, ensuring materials are accurately organized and maintained in appropriate databases to support research, reporting, and related program activities.
• Conduct structured and ad hoc data collection using surveys, direct outreach, and internal documentation to ensure comprehensive coverage of departmental activities.
• Enter, clean, and maintain data within designated databases, ensuring consistency with established data standards, taxonomies, and formatting requirements.
• Regularly audit and update records to ensure accuracy, completeness, and timeliness of information.
• Develop and refine data collection workflows and documentation practices to improve efficiency, scalability, and reproducibility of data processes.

15%- Administrative Responsibilities:

• Provide general administrative and operational support for departmental initiatives
• Assist with outreach efforts by identifying relevant contacts, maintaining communication lists, and supporting engagement through platforms such as email and LinkedIn.
• Participate in regular check-in meetings, prepare progress updates, and track action items to ensure timely completion of assigned tasks.
• Facilitate communication between faculty, staff, and research groups to support information sharing and collaboration.
• Support special projects and ad hoc requests related to data management, reporting, or departmental priorities as needed.

Posting Range: $15.50 up to $24.00 per hour commensurate with experience

Equal Opportunity Employer