Principal Data Scientist

Position Summary:

As the impact of Machine Learning and Large Language Models (LLMs) on Higher Education continues to grow, we are seeking a Principal Data Scientist to lead the way in leveraging these technologies to benefit university students and instructors. This role is critical in driving our AI initiatives to improve both student and instructor experiences, with a particular focus on enhancing instructor-side functionality. The Principal Data Scientist will be instrumental in achieving our goal of adding significant AI functionality every six months. This role involves strategic planning, designing, developing, and implementing advanced AI/ML solutions that enhance learning experiences, improve product quality, and strengthen our market position.

Responsibilities:

1. Educational Content and Tools:
   • Develop AI models to enhance digital textbooks and e-learning materials, making them more interactive and adaptive to individual student needs.
   • Create intelligent content recommendation systems that suggest relevant readings, exercises, and supplementary materials based on student performance and learning objectives.
   • Design and implement AI-powered highlighting and note-taking features that help students identify key concepts and improve retention.
2. Learning Tools and Platforms:
   • Lead the development of AI-driven assessment tools that provide immediate, personalized feedback on assignments and quizzes.
   • Implement natural language processing techniques to create conversational AI tutors that can answer student questions and explain complex topics.
   • Develop predictive models to identify at-risk students and suggest intervention strategies for instructors.
3. Instructor Support:
   • Create AI tools to assist instructors in course design, syllabus creation, and lesson planning, leveraging our extensive educational content database.
   • Develop intelligent grading assistants that can provide consistent, objective feedback on written assignments and open-ended questions.
   • Implement AI systems to analyze student engagement and performance data, providing actionable insights to instructors.
4. Book and Content Interaction:
   • Design AI-powered search and discovery tools that allow students to quickly find relevant information across our library of textbooks and educational resources.
   • Develop summarization and key point extraction algorithms to help students efficiently review and retain information from lengthy texts.
   • Create interactive AI agents that can engage students in Socratic dialogues about the content they're studying, enhancing comprehension and critical thinking.
5. Cross-functional Collaboration:
   • Work closely with content developers, instructional designers, and subject matter experts to ensure AI solutions align with pedagogical best practices and curriculum standards.
   • Collaborate with the Product Manager for instructor-side AI to translate educator needs into technical solutions, focusing on natural language interfaces and ease of use.
   • Partner with UX/UI designers to create intuitive, AI-enhanced interfaces for both students and instructors.
6. Innovation and Research:
   • Stay at the forefront of AI advancements in education, particularly in areas such as knowledge tracing, intelligent tutoring systems, and adaptive learning.
   • Conduct research on the effectiveness of AI interventions in improving learning outcomes and student engagement.
   • Explore the potential of emerging technologies like augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) in conjunction with AI for immersive learning experiences.

Qualifications:

• Ph.D. or master’s degree in computer science, Data Science, or a related field with a focus on Machine Learning and AI.
• 8+ years of experience developing AI and machine learning solutions, with a strong preference for experience in edtech or digital learning platforms.
• Deep expertise in natural language processing, large language models, and their applications in processing and generating educational content.
• A plus if solid understanding of educational theories, instructional design principles, and learning sciences.
• Experience with adaptive learning systems, intelligent tutoring systems, or AI-enhanced educational software.
• A plus if familiar with educational content management systems, learning management systems (LMS), and digital publishing platforms.
• Strong skills in data mining and analysis of educational datasets, including student performance data and learning analytics.
• Proven track record of leading high-impact AI projects in a fast-paced, product-driven environment.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to collaborate effectively with educators, content creators, and technical teams.
• Commitment to ethical AI development, with a focus on fairness, transparency, and privacy in educational technology.

Compensation:

Compensation at our company is influenced by a variety of factors, including skill set, level of experience, and location. The minimum full-time salary range for this position is $170,000 - $190,000.

This position is eligible to participate in an annual incentive program, and information on benefits offered is here.

What to expect from Pearson:

Did you know Pearson is one of the 10 most innovative education companies of 2022?

At Pearson, we add life to a lifetime of learning so everyone can realize the life they imagine. We do this by creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are on a journey to be 100 percent digital to meet the changing needs of the global population by developing a new strategy with ambitious targets. To deliver on our strategic vision, we have five business divisions that are the foundation for the long-term growth of the company: Assessment & Qualifications, Virtual Learning, English Language Learning, Workforce Skills and Higher Education.

We value the power of an inclusive culture and also a strong sense of belonging. We promote a culture where differences are embraced, opportunities are accessible, consideration and respect are the norm and all individuals are supported in reaching their full potential. Through our talent, we believe that diversity, equity and inclusion make us a more innovative and vibrant place to work.

Pearson is an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer and a member of E-Verify. We want a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives and skills. The more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit and business need. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status or any other group protected by law.

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