Senior Geospatial Data Scientist

Job Description

The Geospatial Data Scientist will leverage advanced geospatial analytics, machine learning, and remote sensing expertise to transform complex agricultural and earth observation data into actionable insights that drive innovation in Syngenta's Computational Agronomy Department. This role will develop cutting-edge models and algorithms that enable data-informed agricultural decision-making, supporting Syngenta's mission to improve global food security and sustainable farming practices.

Working within cross-functional teams, the Geospatial Data Scientist will bridge technical expertise with agricultural knowledge to create scalable, data-driven solutions for modern agricultural challenges.

Accountabilities

• Develop and implement advanced geospatial and machine learning models to analyze agricultural datasets (satellite imagery, drone data, IoT sensors) and extract meaningful patterns.
• Design, build, and maintain scalable, cloud-enabled large data pipelines for cleaning, transforming, and integrating diverse geospatial data sources.
• Perform statistical analysis and data mining to uncover spatial and temporal trends that inform agricultural management strategies.
• Engineer innovative features from remote sensing data to enhance model accuracy and performance.
• Deliver high-quality, documented code for geospatial data processing using Python and relevant libraries.
• Translate analytical results into practical recommendations for agronomists, growers, and decision-makers.
• Stay current with advancements in geospatial technologies, remote sensing, and machine learning to maintain technical leadership.
• Contribute to technical reports, scientific publications, and presentations to share research outcomes.
• Collaborate closely with interdisciplinary teams, including agronomists, data scientists, and software engineers.

Qualifications

Critical Knowledge & Experience

• Master’s degree in Geographic Information Science, Remote Sensing, Computer Science, Data Science, or a related field with a strong focus on geospatial analysis.
• 5+ years of experience in satellite and geospatial data analysis and modeling.
• Proficiency in Python programming, with experience in geospatial libraries such as GeoPandas, Rasterio, and related tools.
• Expertise in machine learning for earth observation applications (e.g., image classification, object detection, time series analysis).
• Experience with geospatial foundation models.
• Experience with version control systems (e.g., Git) and collaborative software development practices.
• Experience leveraging generative AI tools to optimize workflows, automate tasks, and enhance productivity in geospatial analysis and data science projects.

Skills

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to explain complex technical concepts to non-technical audiences.

Nice to have

• PhD in a relevant field.
• Familiarity with agronomy concepts and agricultural systems.
• Expertise in deep learning techniques.
• Experience with cloud-based geospatial processing and big data technologies (e.g., Google Earth Engine, Spark).

Additional Information

Location: Remote working is possible within UK.

Portfolio submission: Please provide examples of relevant geospatial data science projects.

What we offer?

• Extensive benefits package including a generous pension scheme, bonus scheme, private medical & life insurance.
• Flexible working arrangements. 
• We offer a position which contributes to valuable and impactful work in a stimulating and international environment.  
• Learning culture (Together we Grow) and wide range of training options.

Equal Opportunity

Syngenta is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate in recruitment, hiring, training, promotion, or any other employment practices for reasons of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status.