Are you passionate about innovating with data science and AI techniques for a better sustainable world?
At VITO, a top European research centre, 1,300 employees turn scientific insights into ground‑breaking technological innovations, AI solutions and policy advice. We do so with a single objective: to help our world thrive for at least 1,000 more years.
In a data‑driven research organisation like VITO, data is collected, processed, analysed and used for data‑driven research to gain new knowledge and accelerate the research cycle. The VITO Data & Analytics Competence Centre designs, develops, tests and valorises data‑intensive technologies, processes and algorithms to develop sustainable solutions in the domains of Energy, Materials Management, Chemistry, Health and Land Use. The D&A team works transversally and is active across the different research domains of VITO, focusing on:
* Strategy development around data science, AI and data management at the corporate level
* Multidisciplinary data‑intensive projects
* Supporting and coaching staff on the technical aspects and algorithms in data science and AI
* Co‑developing knowledge and reusable software and increasing their TRL (technology readiness level)
The results of this research are presented both internally and externally.
Your tasks and responsibilities
* Focus on researching and developing data‑driven and AI solutions
* Apply the principles of good data management and data engineering technologies
* Design and develop reusable solutions in which data science plays a central role, ranging from deep‑technical programming tasks to high‑level strategic AI‑related topics
* Use high‑performance computing facilities where needed
* Collaborate as a team player with direct colleagues within the D&A team and domain researchers
* Guide employees across VITO departments regarding the use of data science techniques and best practices in data management and analysis
* Work within the framework of VITO’s new data governance strategy and contribute to its further development into a fully FAIR‑compliant data platform
* Participate in training, education and coaching of employees within the different VITO departments
* Expand knowledge and expertise and keep up with trends in the data science and AI field
* Publish research results (in collaboration with PhD students) and present them at international forums
* Actively participate in writing research proposals and acquiring new projects
* Contribute to identifying new IP (intellectual property) opportunities and valorisation initiatives
Qualifications
* A master’s degree in an (applied) mathematical field such as computer science, engineering or statistics; a PhD and research experience are considered a plus
* Thorough knowledge of data science techniques, and particular one or more of the following areas: machine learning, deep learning, statistical modelling, (Generative) AI; experience with NLP, LLM and Agentic AI are a plus
* Experience working efficiently with relational, graph and NoSQL databases, and familiarity with modern data engineering technologies; cloud technology experience is a plus
* Hands‑on experience with programming (particularly Python and relevant libraries such as Pandas, GeoPandas, Scikit‑learn, PyTorch, TensorFlow) and familiarity with good software development practices; familiarity with modern DevOps and MLOps technology (Linux, Git, CI/CD, Docker, MLFlow) is a plus
* Enjoy a multidisciplinary approach and believe data science is an important asset for a more sustainable society
* Team player with good communication skills and the ability to convey ideas to people from various backgrounds
* Satisfaction in productive collaborations with other research institutions, universities and industrial partners
* Alert to opportunities and easily make connections within national and international networks
* Fluency in Dutch or English
Offer
* A motivated team of colleagues who support each other
* A competitive salary with a salary package supplemented with extra‑legal benefits such as allowances, insurances and a modular holiday package
* Flexible working hours and location; activity‑based approach – your activities determine your workplace, with an average presence at our office in Mol, and flexibility for satellite offices in Antwerp‑Berchem, Leuven, Ghent, Ostend or Genk
* Opportunities for further training and to stay at the state of the art in your field
* A place in an internationally renowned organisation known for high‑level technological research and scientific excellence, contributing to the transition towards a sustainable society at local, national and international levels
Additional Information
Seniority level: Mid‑Senior level
Employment type: Full‑time
Job function: Science; Industries: Research Services
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