Chief Data Scientist

Chief Data Scientist – Oceanographic Expeditions

Advanced Marine Science, Conservation & AI -ML Integration

Role Overview

Our ocean exploration program is focused on accelerating marine research, protecting vulnerable ecosystems, and advancing global ocean stewardship. By combining field-based science with emerging artificial intelligence tools, we generate high-impact insights on biodiversity, climate change, and sustainable fisheries.

We are seeking a Chief Data Scientist to lead and evolve this mission at sea.

Position Summary

The Chief DatScientist is the senior scientific authority aboard our expedition vessel, responsible for shaping and delivering a multidisciplinary research program. This role blends hands-on fieldwork, technical innovation, and strategic leadership.

You will oversee scientific operations, guide a team of researchers and collaborators, and ensure that collected data contributes to meaningful conservation outcomes, policy development, and publicly accessible knowledge.

The ideal candidate brings strong marine science expertise, experience applying AI/ML in environmental contexts, and the ability to collaborate across diverse groups including Indigenous communities, regulators, industry, and expedition participants.

Key Responsibilities

1. Intelligent Data Systems & Research Innovation

• Develop and implement AI/ML workflows for marine monitoring, including visual species identification, acoustic detection, and ecosystem modeling
• Oversee onboard data systems, including edge-processing capabilities across drones, ROVs/AUVs, and sensor arrays
• Ensure datasets are structured according to open-science principles (FAIR: Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable)

2. Applied Conservation & Impact

• Direct scientific initiatives supporting marine conservation priorities such as protected area planning, fisheries sustainability, and habitat resilience
• Translate research outputs into practical guidance for governments, NGOs, and environmental organizations
• Produce periodic ocean intelligence reports for stakeholders and partners

3. Scientific Operations & Governance

• Lead, mentor, and coordinate a multidisciplinary science team (up to ~12 personnel)
• Ensure compliance with international frameworks, maritime regulations, and community-based governance protocols
• Maintain high standards in biosecurity, environmental protection, and ethical research conduct
• Protect sensitive data from misuse or exploitation

4. Collaboration, Communication & Stewardship

• Deliver engaging scientific briefings to onboard participants and external audiences
• Work closely with vessel leadership to align scientific goals with operational logistics
• Conduct environmental performance reviews and contribute to annual sustainability reporting
• Build respectful, inclusive partnerships with Indigenous groups and regional stakeholders

Qualifications

Required

• Doctoral degree (or equivalent experience) in a relevant field such as oceanography, marine science, environmental science, or computational science
• At least 5 years leading interdisciplinary research initiatives, ideally including offshore or remote expeditions
• Demonstrated experience applying AI/ML techniques to environmental or ecological data
• Strong academic or applied research track record
• Proven leadership experience managing diverse teams, including cross-sector collaborators
• Marine safety certifications (STCW Basic Safety Training, marine medical) and willingness to complete Polar training if required
• Excellent communication skills across both technical and non-technical audiences
• Commitment to transparency, ethical science, and open data practices

Preferred

• Experience with marine technology platforms (Deep-sea Submersibles, ROVs, AUVs, UAVs, sensor networks)
• Background in areas such as genomics, fisheries science, climate systems, or socio-economic analysis
• Experience contributing to policy, advisory reports, or regulatory frameworks
• Familiarity with sustainability reporting, carbon accounting, or ocean-related finance initiatives
• Strong public-facing science communication experience
• Experience working alongside Indigenous communities or local conservation groups
• Proficiency with cloud-based platforms and scientific programming tools

Work Environment & Benefits

• Schedule: Rotational deployment (approx. 8–10 weeks at sea, followed by 6–8 weeks off)
• Location: Newfoundland- North Atlantic- Northwest Passage- North Pacific, Canada’s Arctic- Antarctic regions
• Compensation: Competitive salary aligned with experience, plus performance-based incentives tied to measurable outcomes
• Benefits Include:
• Comfortable onboard accommodations
• Comprehensive medical coverage
• Dedicated research funding
• Support for conferences and open-access publishing

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: $100,000.00-$125,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Casual dress
• Company events
• Discounted or free food
• Extended health care
• Store discount
• Wellness program

Work Location: Remote