Senior Applied AI Scientist

PHF Science

Senior Applied AI Scientist developing production machine-learning solutions for New Zealand’s public health and forensic research organisation. Leading collaborations, research projects, publications, mentoring, and advanced AI capability development.

Posted 8/5/2026full-timeChristchurch • 🇳🇿 New ZealandSeniorWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

Use this summary to align your resume positioning with the role.

Demonstrates expertise in Machine Learning and AI applications, with a strong foundation in statistics and experience in developing and deploying models in production environments. Proven ability to communicate complex scientific concepts effectively and mentor junior team members.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Ph.D. In Computer ScienceApplied Machine Learning/Deep Learning ResearchProficiency In Python, R, Scikit-Learn, And PyTorchExperience With Public Cloud Computing PlatformsStrong Oral And Written Communication Skills

ATS Keywords

Tailor your resume

Applicant Tracking System Keywords

Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.

Hard Skills

Machine LearningDeep LearningStatisticsData InsightsModel DevelopmentAI PlanningMulti-objective OptimisationOperations ResearchAgent-based SimulationData Analytics

Soft Skills

Problem SolvingTroubleshootingTeam PlayerMentoringCoaching

Tools & Technologies

GitMS AzureAmazon Web ServicesGoogle CloudSnowflake

Industry Keywords

Public HealthForensic R&DTe Tiriti O WaitangiTikanga MāoriTe Reo Māori

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

AWSAzureCloudPythonPyTorchScikit-Learn

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Deliver cutting edge data science- and AI-driven solutions using innovative techniques
Build national and international collaborations
Lead and manage research and/or commercial projects
Communicate meaningful science stories through presentations, reports, papers, visualisations and other outputs
Apply AI and machine learning to practical and research problems relevant to PHF Science
Work closely with the Data Science Lead, PHF Science domain experts, external partners and stakeholders
Mentor junior team members or students
Prepare and deliver trainings, seminars and discussions on state-of-the-art machine learning and AI research and applications
Contribute to development of PHF Science’s advanced technology capabilities

Requirements

What you’ll need

A Ph.D or equivalent industry experience in Computer Science, Compute Engineering, Software Development or Data Science related field
At least seven years of experience in applied Machine Learning/Deep Learning research
Knowledge and experience in Agent-based simulation, AI Planning, Multi-objective Optimisation and/or Operations Research
Strong foundations in statistics
Demonstrated experience working with data for data insights, model development and analytics
Demonstrated experience developing and deploying machine learning models and workflows in production environments
Track record of writing and publishing research publications on AI and data science research
Proficiency in Python, R, Scikit-Learn and PyTorch
Experience using modern tools and frameworks such as Git for developing, managing and deploying software and applications
Excellent problem solving and troubleshooting skills
Excellent oral and written communication skills
Knowledge and experience working with public cloud computing platforms such as MS Azure, Amazon Web Services or Google Cloud
Knowledge and experience working with Snowflake or other data warehousing and management solutions
R&D experience relevant to public health and/or forensic is a plus
Drive and passion to solve real-world problems and deliver real outcomes and impact to New Zealand’s community through an R&D role
Team player with strong communication skills and ability to coach, mentor and supervise less experienced staff and students
Successful applicant must complete a pre-employment drug-screen and police records check
Applications should include a cover letter and CV
Understanding of or willingness to develop capability in Te Tiriti o Waitangi, tikanga Māori, and/or te reo Māori

Benefits

Comp & perks

Flexible working options to support balancing work and non-work commitments
The equivalent of 5 weeks holidays
15 days sick leave per year and service leave provisions after five years
Annual volunteer day to support an organisation or issue you care about in the community
Free annual flu vaccinations
Life insurance and physical loss benefit
Subsidised Southern Cross insurance & access to special retail discounts
Access to Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), a confidential and free counselling service
Accredited Living Wage employer