Polychord Ltd
Data Scientist
Requirements
Candidates should have a PhD in a quantitative discipline and strong knowledge of Bayesian statistics and programming skills in Python. Industry experience and familiarity with machine learning and large datasets are desirable.
Job Description
Company Overview
We are a fast-growing Data Science company, a spin-out from the University of Cambridge Astrophysics group. The company applies cutting-edge data science and mathematics to solve a diverse range of real-world problems, with a focus on advancing sustainability in industrial processes and drug discovery.
Data Scientist | Hybrid – Herne Hill, South London | Full-Time | Permanent
Salary commensurate with qualifications and experience
Licensed UK visa sponsor — international and Graduate-visa candidates welcome.
Want to work on the kind of data science problems most companies can’t solve?
An innovative, fast-growing data science business is looking for a Data Scientist to join its highly
technical team. Founded as a spin-out from a world-leading university research group, this is a rare opportunity to apply Bayesian statistics, machine learning and scientific computing to genuinely complex, real-world challenges across sustainable industry, molecular discovery, optimisation and predictive modelling.
This is not a generic machine learning role — and it’s not another business building around
off-the-shelf AI. This organisation has built its reputation on proprietary Bayesian tools and deep
scientific capability, using advanced sampling methods and modern AI technologies to tackle
problems that standard approaches can’t. If you enjoy difficult technical challenges, rigorous thinking and working at the intersection of research and commercial impact, this is a role worth exploring.
The Data Scientist Opportunity
As a Data Scientist, you’ll work on advanced modelling and scientific computing projects that combine Bayesian inference, probabilistic modelling and machine learning with practical commercial applications.
You’ll contribute to both client-facing work and the development of the company’s core technology, collaborating with a team that values curiosity, experimentation and technical depth.
You’ll also have the chance to take part in regular research workshops with academic collaborators, helping shape the future direction of the company’s science while working on projects with real-world value.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Develop and deliver advanced data science, sampling and machine learning solutions
- Apply Bayesian inference and statistical modelling to complex scientific and industrial challenges
- Build robust, well-tested code and clear technical documentation
- Work with proprietary Bayesian data science tools, while using modern LLM and GPT-based
- tools to enhance and accelerate your workflow
- Explore new models, methods and technologies, applying them where they add genuine value
- Contribute to the development of the company’s core scientific and technical capabilities
- Collaborate with clients, research partners and internal technical teams
- Take part in regular research workshops with leading academic collaborators
What We’re Looking For
We’re looking for a technically strong, intellectually curious Data Scientist who enjoys solving difficult problems and working in a research-driven environment.
Essential:
PhD in Physics, Astrophysics, Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science or another highly
quantitative discipline
Strong knowledge of Bayesian statistics and probabilistic modelling
Advanced Python programming skills
Experience with Git and software development best practice
Excellent analytical, mathematical and problem-solving skills
Desirable:
1–2 years’ industry experience in a relevant data science, research or modelling role
Experience in machine learning, optimisation or scientific computing
Knowledge of Fortran, C or C++
Experience working with large, complex or high-dimensional datasets
Why Join?
This is an opportunity to do meaningful, intellectually challenging work in a company that combines serious scientific depth with real commercial application. You’ll join a collaborative, highly technical team where new ideas are welcomed, curiosity is encouraged and your work can directly influence both client outcomes and the future direction of the business.
Benefits
Hybrid and flexible working – with a minimum of 1 day per week in the office
25 days’ annual leave, plus 8 UK bank holidays
5% employer pension contribution
Confidential Employee Assistance Programme, including 24/7 virtual GP access for you and
your household
Cycle to Work scheme
Access to an employee discounts platform with retail, technology and lifestyle savings
The chance to work on cutting-edge research and commercial data science projects
A collaborative, research-driven environment with genuine scope to grow
What’s Next?
To be considered, please submit your CV along with a link to your GitHub profile, coding portfolio,
publications or other examples of technical work.
Candidates with experience as a Data Scientist, Machine Learning Engineer, Quantitative Analyst,
Statistician, Computational Scientist, Research Scientist or in a similar advanced technical role are encouraged to apply. We may be able to help some candidates
How to Apply
If this role sounds interesting, click the APPLY button to send your CV for immediate consideration.
Please include a link to your GitHub repository and/or other examples of your coding work.
Education
Skills
About Polychord Ltd
PolyChord Ltd is a data-science company spun out from the University of Cambridge's Astrophysics group, focused on commercializing next-gen data science technology. Our expert team of data scientists collaborates with innovative companies to deliver impactful and results-driven solutions. We are currently advancing molecular structure analysis by integrating PolyChord technology with existing molecular simulation libraries. This includes a collaboration with a global mining company seeking sustainable alternatives to heavy chemicals, supported by Professor Erin Johnson, a computational chemist from Cambridge. This work has sparked interest from industries like Pharmaceuticals, where our method, Molytics, is being used to explore sustainable solvents, catalysts, and enzymes for greener solutions. PolyChord stands out by providing explicable results, something many competing approaches struggle to achieve, giving our clients the confidence to apply our tools effectively in their work. In addition, we are progressing with PolyTram, a technology that provides valuable maintenance insights into tram and light rail systems. Using simple, low-cost sensors, PolyTram collects data on track and OLE conditions. Currently in use with Edinburgh Tram and West Midlands Metro, this technology has generated interest from additional tram operators looking to improve maintenance and efficiency. We also offer consultancy services backed by over 30 years of expertise, leveraging cutting-edge techniques from academia to address complex commercial data-analytics challenges. Whether through fixed consultancy fees or joint collaborations with shared commercial outcomes, we ensure cost-effective, precise, and timely solutions to meet our clients' needs.