Data Scientist

Data ScientistPosition SummaryThe Data Scientist will research, design, and evaluate AI and machine learning solutions that advance C4ADS's investigative mission. This role is centered on applied research and experimentation, with a focus on designing and testing LLM-based workflows, building retrieval and agentic pipelines, and translating complex analytical needs into working tools that investigators and analysts can actually use. The ideal candidate combines strong technical depth in NLP and generative AI paired with genuine familiarity with global security, illicit networks, or open-source research. This person should be equally comfortable experimenting with emerging technologies, translating complex analytical needs into workable technical solutions, and communicating limitations and tradeoffs clearly to non-technical audiences.Core ResponsibilitiesAI Research & ExperimentationResearch, prototype, and evaluate LLM-based approaches to investigative data challengesDesign and test RAG (retrieval-augmented generation) pipelines for document-heavy research workflowsDevelop and maintain MCP-based agentic tooling that supports analyst workflowsConduct prompt engineering and model evaluation to assess output quality, reliability, and limitationsStay current with developments in generative AI, NLP, and vector-based retrieval and bring relevant advances into organizational practiceApplied NLP & MLApply advanced NLP techniques to multilingual, unstructured text data including entity extraction, classification, clustering, and semantic searchWork with vector embeddings and embedding models to support similarity search and knowledge retrievalEvaluate and select appropriate models and frameworks for specific research tasks, balancing performance, cost, and interpretabilityMaintain awareness of ML fundamentals and apply sound experimental design when testing approachesAnalyst & Investigator SupportPartner closely with research and program teams to understand investigative data needsTranslate complex analytical requirements into tractable ML or AI problem framingsBuild and document tools and workflows that empower non-technical investigators to work with AI outputs effectivelyCommunicate model limitations, uncertainty, and appropriate use clearly to non-technical stakeholdersData Visualization & CommunicationDevelop clear visualizations and summaries that communicate analytical findings to internal and external audiencesContribute to written outputs including technical documentation, research memos, and methodology notesPresent findings and methodologies to program teams and organizational leadershipExternal EngagementParticipate in technical demos and engagements with external partners and clientsAdvise external stakeholders on AI-assisted research approaches and appropriate use of generative AI toolsRepresent C4ADS's technical capabilities in partnership and grant contexts where relevantRequired QualificationsSkills & Experience2-4 years of experience in data science, applied ML, or NLP research (professional, academic, or a strong combination)Strong understanding of NLP fundamentals and generative AI concepts including transformers, embeddings, RAG, and prompt engineeringProficiency in Python for data processing, modeling, and pipeline developmentWorking knowledge of SQL and relational dataHands-on experience with LLM application frameworks such as LangChain, LlamaIndex, or similarExperience working with vector databases or embedding-based retrieval (Pinecone, Weaviate, pgvector, or similar)Familiarity with AWS cloud services for storing and processing dataExperience working with government datasets, legal documents, or public records is a plusProficiency with Git and collaborative development practicesDomain KnowledgeBackground in international affairs, global security, conflict, sanctions, or illicit finance through coursework, research, or professional experience in the public sector, journalism, or other similar investigative and research fields.Familiarity with OSINT methods or open-source research practicesEducationBachelor's or advanced degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Mathematics, Statistics, or a related technical field preferred, equivalent demonstrated experience consideredProfessional CompetenciesAbility to independently scope and execute research projects, including shaping deliverables in collaboration with non-technical analytical teamsStrong analytical rigor with comfort questioning model outputs, stress-testing assumptions, and designing evaluations that surface failure modesThoughtful approach to AI ethics and responsible use, including awareness of bias, hallucination risks, and the stakes of applying AI in sensitive investigative contextsStrong written and verbal communication skills, including ability to explain technical concepts to non-technical audiencesCollaborative working style with comfort operating across research and technical teamsIntellectual curiosity and genuine interest in the organization's missionPreferred QualificationsFamiliarity with Palantir Foundry or similar enterprise data platformsExperience with graph databases or network analysis (Neo4j or similar)Background in a nonprofit, policy, journalism, or national security research contextExperience with multilingual NLP or working across non-English language datasetsWorking ConditionsHybrid role based in Washington, DC, with a minimum of 2 in-office days per weekStandard business hours with occasional flexibility required based on project needsHighly collaborative team environment with regular cross-functional engagement across research data, and operations teamsCompensation & BenefitsSalary: $95,000Benefits: Medical, Dental, and Vision insuranceRetirement: Voluntary 401(k) with 4% employer matchTime Off: Unlimited vacation and flex time, emphasizing outcomes over hoursLearning: $4,500 annual education stipend to grow your skills and language capabilitiesDevelopment: Access to customizable professional development resourcesCulture: A mission-driven team that values hard work, creativity, and a healthy, supportive workplaceApply Online at: https://c4ads.org/careers/?gh_jid=7696666003