PRIO is seeking skilled and motivated candidates to fill 1-2 positions of Junior Machine Learning Developer for a one-year full-time position, with the possibility of an extension for another year, starting in August 2024. With a deep commitment to research fostering a more peaceful world, PRIO has always leveraged the latest technological advancements. Since its inception in 1959, PRIO has consistently been at the forefront of data-driven social science. Over the last decade, we have increased our focus on data science and machine learning. As part of this prioritization, we seek to expand our technical capacity further by hiring additional junior developers.
The successful candidate will join VIEWS (viewsforecasting.org), an expert research team renowned for its pioneering role in developing and deploying machine learning-based early warning systems. These systems are crafted to facilitate early/anticipatory action by forecasting violent conflict and its consequences worldwide. With a core team based across PRIO and the University of Uppsala, as well as affiliates across universities and institutions in Europe and the US, VIEWS has cultivated numerous successful partnerships with governmental and non-governmental organizations. Our collaborative efforts are dedicated to preventing, mitigating, and addressing the impacts of violent conflict, driving forward our vision of using technology to combat human suffering and foster a more peaceful future. See github.com/prio-data/viewser/wiki and github.com/prio-data/views_pipeline for more information on the technical implementation.
Tasks and Responsibilities
- Assist in developing, optimizing, and evaluating machine learning models, ensuring their efficiency.
- Assist in integrating and deploying such models into our broader production systems, enhancing our products' predictive capabilities.
- Stay abreast of the latest machine learning trends and technologies through continuous learning and general curiosity.
- Actively participate in team meetings and project planning sessions, understanding and contributing to the strategic direction of our projects.
Qualifications
- Demonstrable skills with Python and relevant libraries (e.g., Numpy, Sklearn, PyTorch) for developing and optimizing machine learning models.
- Experience with the implementation, optimization, and evaluation of Machine Learning models in Python.
- A creative and driven approach to problem-solving, especially when faced with complex problems.
- The ability to efficiently transition between team-oriented tasks and independent workflows.
- While a degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field is appreciated, we encourage applications from any candidate with solid credentials, demonstrable skills, and relevant experience to apply.
Inclusivity
We at PRIO are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace and strongly encourage applications from qualified candidates regardless of gender, age, ethnicity, religion, belief, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression. Diversity is a strength, and we recognize that bringing together people from varied backgrounds - with diverse experiences and perspectives - is paramount to achieving our goal of helping create a more peaceful world.
What We Offer
- A full-time position for one year, with the possibility to be renewed for another year.
- A competitive salary reflective of qualifications.
- Advancement opportunities within 6-8 months, contingent upon performance.
- Opportunities for professional growth and development tailored to individual goals, whether in research or engineering.
- Group life insurance coverage.
Membership in the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund, supporting your long-term financial well-being.
How to Apply
Applications should be written in English and include the following:
- A 1 to 2-page letter of application detailing motivation, competence, and experience, addressing the expected qualifications listed above;
- Curriculum vitae.
- Transcripts of academic degrees.
- Names and contact details for three references.
Applications must be submitted using the online form within the deadline of 5 May.
Further information
PRIO has an international research staff of over 100 people in full—and part-time positions, in addition to administrative and support staff. The institute's working language is English. PRIO is an equal opportunity employer and values staff diversity.
The institute is situated in an attractive location in central Oslo, one of Europe’s fastest-growing capital cities. Employee benefits include access to the PRIO cabin in the mountains, a subsidized canteen, weekly physiotherapy exercise, weekly running group, discount gym membership, and various social events.
PRIO offers competitive salaries based on prospective employees' qualifications. Additionally, PRIO offers group life insurance and membership to the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund.
The candidate should be interested in PRIO’s broader mission of conducting high-quality academic research on questions relevant to promoting a more peaceful world.
Interviews are expected to occur mid-May, and expected start date is August. For further information about the position, please contact Research Professor Håvard Hegre (hhegre@prio.org) or by phone at +47 22 54 77 00. For further information about the recruitment process or submitting your application, please contact Department Manager Catarina Barbieri (catbar@prio.org).
