Data Science Lead / Data Science Lead

Join Us at Givaudan

Celebrate the beauty of human experience while creating happier, healthier lives with a love for nature. Together, with kindness and humility, we deliver food innovations, craft inspired fragrances, and develop beauty and wellness solutions that enhance how people look and feel. With over 17,000 employees worldwide, there are countless opportunities to explore ideas and ambitions. Immerse yourself in varied, flexible, and inspiring environments. Collaborate with empowered professionals, build friendships, and expand your skills. Each day, your energy, creativity, and determination will play a pivotal role in shaping our future and positively impacting billions of lives. Every essence of you enriches our world. We are Givaudan. Human by nature.

About the Role

This position is responsible for overseeing the development and delivery of AI and data science solutions for scientific and chemistry-related applications within research, laboratory, and industrial R&D environments. Acting as a liaison between Data Science and Science & Technology (S&T) teams, this role ensures robust scientific interpretation, high-quality data governance, and the integration of machine learning and advanced modeling into research and operational workflows. You will report directly to the Data Science Manager.

Your Purpose

• Lead Data Science & AI initiatives within Science and Technology, combining advanced data science leadership with deep scientific domain understanding.
• Provide guidance and support to Data Scientists and AI Engineers in designing and developing complex data models, algorithms, and scientific data analysis approaches that enhance decision-making.
• Oversee the planning and iterative delivery of Data Science & AI solutions, ensuring robust and actionable products for Science and Technology.
• Contribute to the definition and continuous improvement of Data Science & AI methodologies, including scientific modeling and experimental data interpretation frameworks.

Your Core Responsibilities

Project Management

• Lead the execution and delivery of data science projects focused on scientific and chemistry-related initiatives (e.g., research and discovery, analytical chemistry, innovation & knowledge management).
• Ensure that all deliveries meet quality, regulatory, and methodological standards, maintaining traceability and reproducibility of scientific results.

Model Development

• Guide the design and implementation of advanced statistical models, machine learning algorithms, and data mining techniques for scientific and chemistry-related initiatives.
• Integrate domain knowledge (chemistry or related fields) into Data Science and AI modeling approaches.
• Explore and apply existing and emerging data science principles, theories, and techniques in model development and evaluation.

Scientific Data Analysis & Interpretation

• Oversee the analysis of experimental, laboratory, and process data (e.g., spectroscopy, chromatography, reaction data).
• Ensure sound scientific interpretation of model outputs, aligned with chemical principles and industrial constraints.
• Support teams in translating scientific hypotheses into testable data science solutions.

Performance Monitoring

• Monitor and evaluate the performance of data science initiatives, utilizing metrics and KPIs to assess impact and identify areas for improvement.

Data Governance

• Contribute to the implementation of data governance practices in compliance with global enterprise standards, ensuring data quality, integrity, and compliance across science and technology datasets.
• Ensure adherence to regulatory and industry standards (e.g., traceability, auditability, GxP when applicable).

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with S&T scientists and business stakeholders to identify AI and data science needs, integrating AI and Data Science into R&D and industrial workflows, and supporting data-driven decision-making.
• Act as a bridge between Data Science and Science & Technology experts.

Your Profile

Academic Background

• PhD or master's degree in Chemistry, Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, or a related field.

Professional Experience

• 5+ years of experience in data science or analytics.
• Experience in scientific, laboratory, or industrial R&D environments.
• 3+ years in a leadership or managerial role.
• A strong interdisciplinary background combining data science and scientific expertise is highly preferred.
• Fluency in French and/or German is an advantage.

Technical Skills

• Domain knowledge in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical, or related scientific discipline.
• Proficiency in data science tools and programming languages (e.g., Python, R, SQL) and experience with machine learning frameworks.
• Familiarity with chemical data formats and modeling approaches (e.g., molecular descriptors, reaction modeling).
• Strong understanding of statistical methods, data analysis techniques, and machine learning algorithms.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present complex data insights to non-technical stakeholders.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills to tackle complex business challenges through data.

Our Benefits

• Bonus Payment
• Career Development
• Pension Support
• Home Office
• Medical Insurance

At Givaudan, you contribute to delightful taste and scent experiences that touch people’s lives. We value the different perspectives that come from diverse cultures, backgrounds, and experiences. Everyone—regardless of race, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, culture, religion, or any personal circumstances—is warmly welcomed at Givaudan, a place where we all love to be and grow.

Every essence of you enriches our world. Join us in making a difference together. Apply online using the form below. Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered.