We seek a data scientist to take a major role in the development of the Big Data abstraction layer in intelligent information systems. The information systems will combine extreme data lineage and machine learning to make predictions and provide answers by linking up data sources. Systems integrating databases with bulk storage and compute resources are already available, but will be further enhanced. The information systems are geared to three domains: data tracing (‘facts and fakes’), smart systems for sensor grids and virtual reality. You will be embedded in the existing Target team of two dozen experts in information technology consisting of both academics and IT engineers. The team has two decades of experience in this area with technologies used in the successful Astro-WISE system and now expanded to the information system for ESA’s Euclid Mission to study Dark Energy and Dark Matter.

The successful candidate will have the following experience and expertise:
• a university degree in a relevant subject (e.g. Computer Science, Machine learning, Astronomy)
• experience with databases and data modeling
• experience with machine learning
• mastery of Python, C++, SQL, XML, XSD
• affinity with a scientific ICT environment
• good communication skills and flexibility with different organisational cultures and structures
• mastery of the English language and preferably a knowledge of the Dutch language.

In addition, experience with any of the following would be considered an advantage: Grid/Cloud computing, Workflow management systems, UML, SysML, ER, RDBMS, astronomical data processing and astronomical spatial index systems (HTM, Healpix). A relevant degree is required and a higher degree (PhD or MSc) would be advantageous.

Fixed-term contract: 12 months.

The University of Groningen offers, depending on experience, a salary of minimum of € 2,835 (salary level 9 Dutch Universities) and a maximum of € 4,274 (salary level 10) gross per month for a full-time appointment. The successful candidate will first be offered a temporary position of one year. An extension is possible after a positive performance evaluation.

Job application
You may apply for this position until 10 February 23:59h / before 11 February 2019 Dutch local time by means of the application form (click on "Apply" below on the advertisement on the university website). Candidates will be considered immediately until the position has been filled.

Unsolicited marketing is not appreciated.

Kapteyn Astronomical Institute

Within OmegaCEN, the expertise centre for astronomical data science at the Kapteyn Astronomical Institute of the University of Groningen, there is a vacancy for a temporary position for a data scientist. The function is in the context of the project Target Field Lab, Mining Big Data (“Target Proeftuin”). This new, Target programme will support research institutes and companies (SMEs) in the development, testing and implementation of innovative intelligent Big Data services. In particular, it will use advanced data modeling and machine learning to enable smart searching and rapid exploration of mountains of data. The Target portfolio is varied and includes a video & visualisation analysis project with Horus BV, advanced data handling for ESA’s Euclid space satellite, social media and visual shows at the Groningen DOT digital dome theatre. In this programme phase, the leap is being made from test bed to robust operational smart systems facilitating scientific and commercial services.