The Director of Research & Data Science will lead our data initiatives, contributing to and executing our data strategy and laying a strong foundation for empowering a data-driven organization. This role requires extensive experience in hands-on data analysis, data analytics, business strategy, systems design and implementation, and collaboration, with the ability to implement durable data and analytics solutions that meet business objectives.

primary Responsibilities

• Design and implement scalable, reliable data solutions that support advanced research, analytics, and AI/ML experimentation across the enterprise.
• Translate complex research and business questions into robust data models that capture key relationships, hierarchies, and behaviors across diverse datasets.
• Drive the development of reusable, research-ready data assets and pipelines that streamline data acquisition, enrichment, quality and integration from structured and unstructured sources.
• Optimize end-to-end data workflows—from ingestion to insight—ensuring teams can efficiently explore, test, and iterate on data-driven hypotheses.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to build data models, dashboards, and reports that provide actionable insights and drive decision-making.
• Support data governance initiatives by promoting standards for data quality, privacy, and compliance.
• Continuously assess and improve data architecture for performance, scalability, and cost-efficiency.
• Work hands-on with BI tools, SQL, cloud platforms, and scripting languages (e.g., Python, R) to deliver analytics solutions.
• Stay current with emerging trends in data, analytics, and AI to recommend tools and practices that enhance capabilities and competitiveness.

EDUCATION and certifications

• Bachelor's degree or above in Computer Science, Data Science, or related field required
• Relevant certifications in cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud) preferred
• Data management and analytics certifications preferred

 

Experience

• 8+ years of progressive experience in data science, modeling, analytics, and IT solution delivery.
• Proven success leading mid- to large-scale data initiatives across cross-functional teams, driving business impact.
• Applied experience in predictive analytics, machine learning models, and AI-driven insights to support business decision-making.
• Deep experience architecting solutions on cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud.
• Hands-on experience with Agile methodologies, Git-based version control, and CI/CD practices for efficient, high-quality delivery.
• Preferred experience in biotechnology, membership engagement analytics, CRM/AMS systems, and trade association data (e.g., advocacy, legislative tracking, event registration, and engagement metrics).

 

Knowledge, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES (KSA’s)

• Expertise in SQL, NoSQL, and complex ETL/data integration strategies across distributed systems.
• Strong proficiency with modern data warehousing and architecture tools such as Snowflake, Databricks, and Data Fabric.
• Understanding of data governance, privacy, compliance, and enterprise data quality standards.
• Skilled in BI tools such as Power BI, Tableau, and Looker, with a focus on delivering meaningful data visualizations.
• Programming expertise in Python, R, or similar for data analytics, automation, and model deployment.
• Familiarity with JavaScript and PHP for integrating data-driven web applications (where applicable).
• Excellent communicator, able to distill complex technical concepts for executive and non-technical audiences.
• Strong strategic execution skills with the ability to align technical solutions with organizational goals.