Senior Researcher Officer - Artificial Intelligence & Data Science

The International Water Management Institute (IWMI), a CGIAR Research Center is seeking an innovative & multi skilled candidate to join its office in Lahore, Pakistan, as Artificial Intelligence & Data Science.

This is a readvertisement of the position. If you have applied before, please do not reapply. Thank you for your understanding.

The Senior Research Officer – Artificial Intelligence & Data Science will be responsible for leveraging geospatial information to develop machine learning algorithms for irrigation demand forecasting. The incumbent will collaborate on water-related projects, develop Python algorithms for efficient data processing, implement AI-based techniques for forecasting models, and develop and maintain AI models.

By integrating AI data science with hydrological and socio-economic data, the incumbent will contribute to informed decision-making and sustainable water resource management for IWMI initiatives under the FCDO-funded Water Resources Accountability Programme (WRAP). The officer will synthesize spatial information, identify data gaps, acquire missing data through remote sensing approaches, and integrate them into the machine learning algorithms. The candidate will also contribute to writing donor reports and research publications.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Work closely with the researchers to develop and implement machine learning algorithms for irrigation demand forecasting using geospatial data.
• Develop and maintain Python-based algorithms, models, and scripts to process, analyze, and visualize large datasets including satellite imagery, climate, irrigation, hydrological and socioeconomic data.
• Integrate AI driven and predictive modeling solutions with interdisciplinary teams to understand the distribution, dynamics of water resources, land use, and related variables.
• Apply statistical methods and machine learning techniques (e.g., decision trees, data mining techniques, CNNs, generative AI) to analyze extensive water-related datasets and extract actionable insights.
• Assist in processing remote sensing imagery to develop forecast models based on hydro-meteorological datasets for various crops and water bodies.
• Utilize remote sensing techniques and tools to collect, process, and interpret satellite images for water-related applications.
• Develop predictive models based on remote sensing datasets to enhance Models for the water system and risk mitigation strategies.
• Identify data gaps and integrate missing data into machine learning algorithms using libraries like scikit-learn, TensorFlow, or PyTorch.
• Assist in developing AI-based Spatial Decision Support Systems and applications to facilitate evidence-based decision-making for water resource management and planning.
• Provide training and technical assistance to project partners, government agencies, and local stakeholders on AI and data science applications in water management.
• Prepare high-quality project reports on spatial analysis and forecasting modeling results, adhering to project timelines.

Requirements

EDUCATIONAL QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE:

Essential,

• Master’s degree in computer science, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, water informatics, hydrology, or closely related fields with a strong focus on applied AI.
• Minimum of 07 years of relevant experience in machine learning, predictive modeling, remote sensing, and/or data science applications, preferably in the context of agriculture, water, and natural resources management.
• Demonstrated proficiency in programming such as python, R or Java for data analysis and visualization (e.g., pandas, NumPy, matplotlib, scikit-learn) including data loaders preparation and integration into the machine learning models.
• Proven experience in utilizing market-leading software such as ArcGIS, and statistical analysis software, including the ability to develop Python scripts.

Desirable,

• Prior experience working with international organizations.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

Essential,

• Proficiency in big data technologies and frameworks (e.g., Hadoop, Spark) and comprehensive knowledge of data science methodologies, including data preprocessing, data cleaning, feature selection, and data visualization.
• Independent and critical scientific thinking with a solid understanding of AI principles, including bias and transparency in water resource assessments.
• Familiarity with AI algorithms and models, such as decision trees, random forests, support vector machines, k-means clustering, and deep neural networks.
• Good understanding of cloud computing platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure, Google Cloud and GEE).
• Knowledge of software development practices, including version control (Git), code documentation, and collaborative development tools
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and good interpersonal skills, with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with diverse stakeholders and communicate technical concepts to non-technical audiences.
• Proficiency in utilizing advanced spatial analysis and Geographic Information Systems tools, as well as hydrological modeling approaches, for multiple scale assessments.
• Persuasive written and oral communication skills in English, including report development, writing, and editing, as well as strong presentation skills when addressing diverse audiences.

Desirable,

• Proficiency in Urdu and Punjabi language is advantageous.

Benefits

This is a nationally recruited position and only Pakistani nationals will be considered. IWMI offers a competitive salary and benefits package, inclusive of health insurance, life insurance, accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) insurance, and long-term disability coverage. The duration of the contract will initially be for a period of three years with the possibility of extension.

IWMI strongly values diversity; therefore, qualified women are highly encouraged to apply.

HOW TO APPLY: Apply for the position by following the application instructions at www.iwmi.org/jobs. We will be accepting applications through 24:00 (IST) on October 25, 2024 (applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis). Your application must include a CV, cover letter, and three (3) references, which may be contacted if you are shortlisted. Receipt of all applications will be acknowledged, but only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

IWMI believes that diversity powers our innovation, contributes to our excellence, and is critical for our mission. We offer a multi-cultural, multi-color, multi-generational and multi-disciplinary working environment. We are consciously creating an inclusive organization that reflects our global character and our commitment to gender equity. We, therefore, encourage applicants from all cultures, races, ethnicities, religions, sexes, national or regional origins, ages, disability status, sexual orientations, and gender identities.