The International Water Management Institute (IWMI), a CGIAR Research Center is seeking a motivated and talented professional to join its headquarters in Battaramulla, Sri Lanka as an Assistant Research Officer – Water Data Science.

The successful candidate will collaborate on water-related projects, developing Python algorithms for efficient data processing, utilizing remote sensing techniques, and maintaining IWMI’s AI models. Essential skills include proficiency in big data technologies, GIS software, and cloud computing platforms.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Work closely with senior data scientists and researchers to analyse and interpret water-related data for various projects and initiatives.
• Develop predictive models leveraging Computer Vision methods and/or Large Language to enhance Models for the water system and contribute to resource planning and risk mitigation strategies.
• Develop and implement Python-based algorithms, models, and scripts to process, analyse, and visualize water data efficiently.
• Utilize remote sensing techniques and tools to collect, process, and interpret satellite and aerial imagery for water-related applications.
• Analyse extensive water-related datasets using statistical methods, machine learning, and utilizing Generative AI techniques to extract actionable insights.
• Contribute to the enhancement and maintenance of hydrology models, ensuring their accuracy and reliability.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to integrate data science methodologies into water management and decision-making processes.
• Communicate findings and results effectively through reports, presentations, and visualizations.

Requirements

EDUCATIONAL QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE:

Essential,

• Bachelor’s degree in Water Resources Engineering, Hydrology, Environmental Science, Data Science, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 02 years of experience in data science.
• Experience with GIS (Geographic Information Systems) software and spatial analysis.
• Experience or familiarity with remote sensing tools and software (e.g., ArcGIS, QGIS, ENVI, Google Earth Engine) for water-related applications.
• Experience building computer vision algorithms.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

Essential,

• Strong proficiency in Python programming for data analysis, machine learning, and visualization (e.g., Pandas, NumPy, Matplotlib, Scikit-learn).
• Understanding code development best practices, such as git.
• Sound understanding on Generative AI (e.g. GPT, LLAMA)
• Understanding of cloud computing platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure, Google Cloud Platform) for data processing and analysis.
• Knowledge of hydrology models and their application in water resources management.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to present complex data findings to diverse audiences.
• Excellent oral and written language skills in English, including effective listening and strong verbal and written communication abilities.

Benefits

This is a nationally recruited position and only Sri Lankan 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 two 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 September 12, 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.

DISCLAIMER: Please be advised that the availability of this position is contingent upon the receipt of donor funding.

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.