Our goals - Your path

Position Summary

We are looking for a highly analytical and innovative R&D Data Scientist to drive data-driven insights and optimize research and development processes. This role will leverage advanced analytics, machine learning, and AI-driven modeling to support R&D innovation, improve decision-making, and enhance product development efficiency.

The R&D Data Scientist will work closely with scientists, engineers, R&D project managers, and business stakeholders to develop predictive models, analyze complex datasets, and extract actionable insights. This position plays a critical role in integrating data science methodologies with R&D strategy, ensuring that research efforts align with the company's long-term goals.

This position open for both natives and foreigners who masters Japanese language. While English skills should be ideally at least on intermediate level.

If you thrive in a fast-paced, research-driven environment and enjoy transforming raw data into meaningful innovation, we’d love to hear from you!

Main function/responsibility/competencies

  • Develop advanced analytics models to optimize R&D processes, predict outcomes, and drive innovation.
  • Utilize machine learning and artificial intelligence to enhance product development and experimentation.
  • Collaborate with scientists, engineers, and R&D project teams to translate research problems into data-driven solutions.
  • Build and maintain data pipelines and processing frameworks to support large-scale research initiatives.
  • Analyze structured and unstructured data from experiments, sensors, and real-world applications to identify trends and patterns.
  • Ensure the integrity, accuracy, and security of R&D datasets, implementing best practices in data governance.
  • Design and implement visualization dashboards and reports for clear communication of research findings.
  • Stay updated on emerging technologies in data science, AI, and R&D analytics to continuously enhance methodologies.
  • Support patent applications and technical documentation by providing data-backed evidence for new innovations.

Your expertise - Our strength

Qualifications & Experience

Required:

  • Master’s or Ph.D. in Data Science, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, Statistics, or a related field.
  • 3+ years of experience in data science, machine learning, or AI-driven analytics (preferably within an R&D environment).
  • Strong proficiency in Python, R, SQL, or MATLAB for data analysis and modeling.
  • Hands-on experience with ML frameworks (TensorFlow, PyTorch, Scikit-learn, etc.).
  • Expertise in statistical modeling, predictive analytics, and experimental design.
  • Knowledge of Big Data technologies (Spark, Hadoop) and cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP).
  • Ability to translate complex data into actionable insights for non-technical stakeholders.
  • Strong problem-solving, communication, and collaboration skills.

Preferred (but not required – we encourage all to apply!):

  • Experience working in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, materials science, or manufacturing R&D.
  • Knowledge of computer vision, NLP, or deep learning for specialized research applications.
  • Familiarity with patent research, regulatory compliance, or intellectual property protection in data science projects.

We encourage applications from diverse backgrounds and are committed to an inclusive work environment. If you don’t meet every qualification but believe you’d be a great fit, we’d love to hear from you!

Reporting line:

  • Head of Digitalization & Performance Management

Going Beyond. Together.

Applicants must have a valid work authorization in Japan. 

 

シーカについて

Sika is a specialty chemicals company with a leading position in the development and production of systems and products for bonding, sealing, damping, reinforcing, and protecting in the building sector and motor vehicle industry. Sika has subsidiaries in more than 100 countries around the world and manufactures in over 300 factories. Sika employs more than 33,000 people and generated sales of CHF 10.4 billion in fiscal year 2022. Sika is active in Japan with more than 1,000 people and has a long-standing history.