Your Key Accountabilities

As the first Data Scientist based in our Shanghai R&D hub, you will establish a strong local data-science capability and connect Umicore with the fast-evolving AI ecosystem in China. You will initiate and deliver AI projects for the Shanghai hub and other teams across the APAC region, while collaborating closely with Umicore’s global Computational Science community.

AI for Science will be a particular focus: using machine learning and generative AI to accelerate scientific knowledge discovery, materials screening, experimental design and the development of new materials and processes.

Your responsibilities will include:

1. Deliver AI solutions
   • Serve as the primary data science expert for the Shanghai hub and support projects across the APAC region
   • Apply a broad range of techniques including machine learning, deep learning, and generative AI to scientific and engineering challenges
   • Translate complex scientific and business challenges into practical, data-driven solutions
2. AI for Science & Scientific Innovation
   • Evaluate and adopt emerging AI-for-Science technologies relevant to Umicore’s research challenges
   • Contribute to the development of novel digital capabilities supporting materials science, chemistry and engineering
   • Combine experimental, modelling and operational data with modern AI methods
3. Connect with China AI ecosystem
   • Build relationships with Chinese technology companies, start-ups, universities and research institutes
   • Identify collaboration opportunities and monitor emerging AI developments
   • Act as a bridge between Umicore's global Computational Science team and the local innovation ecosystem

Who we are looking for

Education & Experience

• Master’s degree or PhD in Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, Materials Science, Chemistry or similar
• 6+ years of hands-on experience delivering applied AI/ML solutions, preferably in an industrial, scientific or R&D environment
• Background or strong interest in materials science, chemistry, process technology or AI for Science
• Good understanding of China’s AI, technology and research ecosystem is a strong asset

Technical Competencies

• Strong practical expertise across multiple AI domains, from established machine-learning methods to deep learning and modern generative AI approaches
• Ability to apply AI methods to scientific and engineering data, including experimental, modelling and operational datasets
• Strong Python programming skills and experience with common data-science and machine-learning libraries
• Clear communication skills, with the ability to explain technical results to scientists, engineers and business stakeholders.
• Fluent English; Mandarin Chinese is strongly preferred.