The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) is dedicated to reducing poverty and hunger through rice science; improving the health and welfare of rice farmers and consumers; and protecting the rice-growing environment for future generations. IRRI is an independent, nonprofit, research and educational institute, founded in 1960 by the Ford and Rockefeller foundations with support from the Philippine government. The institute, headquartered in Los Baños, Philippines, has offices in 17 rice-growing countries in Asia and Africa, and over 1,000 staff.

Working with in-country partners, IRRI develops advanced rice varieties that yield more grain and better withstand pests and disease as well as flooding, drought, and other harmful effects of climate change.

The Sustainable Impact through Rice-based Systems Department delivers on key priorities of the IRRI Strategic Plan including the areas of Climate, Water, Adaptive Agronomy, and Geospatial Science and Modeling.

Closing yield gaps and reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the Philippine rice sector through digital innovations is a major priority for the Philippines. The Palay+ project aims to catalyze transitions to low-emissions and highly productive rice systems that meet domestic demands through better targeting of investments and improved water management – especially for irrigation and groundwater.

Under the supervision of IRRI’s Senior Water Scientist and Geospatial Unit Lead, the Data Scientist will help to design, test, and scale data-driven agronomic interventions for agricultural production and water management. This will involve building integrated data ecosystems across multiple data types, including surveys, remote and near sensing, and advanced analytics through Artificial Intelligence and machine learning algorithms to provide actionable solutions and inform program design for climate adaptation and sustainable irrigation.

We are looking for an independent and dedicated scientist with experience and willingness to work across different cultural context with a focus on the Philippines with opportunities to contribute to growing and working in other countries and global programs.

This position will be based at the IRRI Headquarters, Los Baños, Philippines and is open for international applications.

• Lead the design of an artificial intelligence/machine learning (AI/ML) platform that enables improved use of underutilized available data to generate actionable insights and/or advisories that target yield gap closure
• Support the development of computational methods for decision support for monitoring irrigation canals and groundwater resources
• Contribute to the design and development of framework and procedures for standardizing the data collection and data analysis
• Contribute to developing strategic partnerships, knowledge sharing, and capacity development of various stakeholders
• Collaborate with other scientists, researchers, national and international partner institutions, extension agencies, and private sector to develop strategic targeting and tailoring of AI/ML based advisory systems
• Communicate key messages and project progress to policy makers and stakeholders primary stakeholders
• Support the team to develop new projects together with IRRI staff and other external partners
• Maintain and proactively develop networks and partnerships
• Contribute to the objectives and deliverables of the project and the overall mandate of the Water Science Unit
• Publish and contribute to a scientific publication in peer-reviewed journals, digests, and other relevant publications highlighting research findings, reflecting IRRI’s scientific leadership
• Prepare and assure quality of project reports, develop work plans, set milestones, and monitor the implementation of research activities

• Advanced degree (Ph.D.) in Data Science, Agricultural Sciences, Environmental Sciences, Hydrology, Remote Sensing, or a closely related field with demonstrated experience in the design and implementation of large-scale data collection systems and advanced data analytics.

Mandatory

• Proficient in machine learning algorithms, deep learning, and data preprocessing
• Excellent knowledge in programming (e.g. in Python, R, SQL and the like)
• Excellent understanding of agricultural, irrigation, and/or ecological system
• Skilled in crafting clear and comprehensive technical documentation that effectively communicates methodology, analysis, and limitations to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Demonstrated ability to work on a multicultural and multidisciplinary team
• Ability to undertake capacity building at all levels

Preferred

• Familiarity with hydrological modeling

IRRI offers a highly extensive employee benefits package inclusive of globally-covered medical insurance, retirement plan, life and accident insurance and other allowances.

Join our team and be part of our story!

Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

This position will remain open until filled.