At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead advanced statistical analyses on genetic datasets and communicate findings effectively.
- Company: Join Optima Partners, a cutting-edge consultancy transforming life sciences with innovative data science.
- Benefits: Enjoy a collaborative culture, opportunities for academic collaboration, and a chance to impact healthcare.
- Other info: Work with leading brands and contribute to groundbreaking projects in bioinformatics.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of genetic research, driving real-world solutions in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: PhD or Master's in a quantitative field with 3+ years in statistical genetics required.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
We are looking for a Senior Data Scientist to lead the design and delivery of machine learning, statistical modelling and experimentation solutions that solve complex business problems and drive measurable outcomes across our client base. You will combine hands‑on technical expertise with strong consulting and stakeholder skills, shaping analytical approaches, guiding delivery and translating data into clear, actionable insight.
The role focuses on developing scalable data science solutions, validating performance through robust experimentation, leading technical decision‑making and partnering with senior stakeholders to ensure analytical outputs deliver real commercial impact.
About Us
Optima Partners is a fast‑growing professional services firm helping leading organisations transform customer engagement at the intersection of marketing, technology and data. We work with major brands including Lloyds Banking Group, NatWest, Nationwide, Aviva, Virgin Media O2, BT, Centrica, and GSK. As we scale from 80 to 200 people we’re growing our Advanced Data team. We are collaborative, curious and focused on delivering practical insight that helps organisations make better decisions and grow sustainably. You will join a practitioner‑led business with a strong data science community, working alongside people who are passionate about applying analytical thinking to real‑world business problems.
About The Role
As a Senior Data Scientist, you will be a technical lead responsible for shaping, developing and implementing machine learning and statistical solutions that deliver meaningful value for our clients. You will work closely with senior stakeholders to understand business challenges, define analytical strategies, oversee delivery and turn complex outputs into clear, actionable recommendations. This is a great opportunity for an experienced data scientist to take ownership of high‑impact work across multiple commercial sectors, contribute to multi‐disciplinary project teams and play a visible role in growing and developing our data science practice.
What You Will Be Doing
- Leading the development and implementation of machine learning and statistical models to solve practical, high‑value business problems
- Partnering with senior stakeholders to understand objectives, shape analytical approaches, influence decisions and communicate findings effectively
- Translating complex technical outputs into clear, transparent and actionable recommendations that support strategic decision‑making
- Exploring data, testing hypotheses and identifying opportunities to create customer, operational and commercial value
- Collaborating with and guiding teams across data science, engineering, strategy and design to deliver high‑quality outcomes
- Championing emerging data science techniques, including practical applications of Large Language Models, and helping translate them into client‑ready solutions
- Mentoring junior colleagues, reviewing analytical work and contributing to the development of best practice within the Advanced Data team
What We Would Like You To Have
- Strong academic background in mathematics, statistics, science, engineering or another numerate discipline
- Minimum 2:1 degree in a STEM subject, with a postgraduate qualification in a quantitative field considered beneficial
- Deep knowledge of statistics, including experimental design, uncertainty quantification, causal inference and predictive modelling
- Significant experience applying supervised and unsupervised machine learning techniques in commercial or client‑facing environments
- Advanced proficiency in Python and/or R, with experience operationalising data science solutions and working with modern data science tooling
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to explain complex analysis clearly and confidently to technical and non‑technical audiences
- Strong problem‑solving skills, commercial curiosity and the ability to lead work independently while supporting others in small, high‑performing teams
- Strong understanding of commercial value drivers such as revenue, cost, profitability, customer behaviour and operational performance
- Experience mentoring junior data scientists, reviewing analytical approaches and contributing to technical standards or reusable assets
Why join us
At Optima, you will work on varied, meaningful projects for well‑known organisations while continuing to deepen your technical expertise and leadership capability. You will be part of a supportive data science community with a strong culture of continuous learning, knowledge sharing and collaboration. You will have the opportunity to shape analytical solutions across different sectors, learn from experienced practitioners, mentor others and build a career path with clear opportunities for senior development and progression.
What’s On Offer
- Competitive salary + bonus up to 15%
- 37 days holiday (incl. Christmas shutdown)
- Private medical insurance, life & income protection
- Pension scheme
- 1,000+ employee perks
- Dedicated learning, training, and certification support
If you’re ready to take a senior role in a practitioner‑led consultancy where data science is applied to meaningful, real‑world problems, we’d love to hear from you.
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Senior Data Scientist employer: Optima Partners
Optima Partners is an exceptional employer located in the vibrant City of Edinburgh, offering a collaborative work culture that fosters innovation and professional growth. As a Senior Data Scientist, you will not only lead impactful projects but also have the opportunity to mentor junior colleagues, ensuring a supportive environment for continuous learning. With a focus on delivering actionable insights across various sectors, you'll be part of a dynamic team dedicated to making a real difference in the field of machine learning.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Data Scientist
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest advancements in statistical genetics and bioinformatics. This will not only help you during interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to staying updated in a rapidly evolving field.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of data science and statistical genetics. Attend relevant conferences or webinars, and engage with experts on platforms like LinkedIn to build connections that could lead to opportunities at Optima Partners.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with large-scale genomic datasets and cloud platforms. Be ready to share specific examples of projects you've worked on, as this will showcase your practical skills and understanding of the role's requirements.
✨Tip Number 4
Practice explaining complex statistical concepts in simple terms. Since effective communication with non-technical stakeholders is crucial, being able to convey your expertise clearly will set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Data Scientist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in statistical genetics and bioinformatics. Emphasise your programming skills in R and Python, as well as your familiarity with large-scale genomic datasets.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:In your cover letter, express your passion for data science and how your background aligns with the role at Optima Partners. Mention specific projects or research that demonstrate your expertise in statistical genetics.
Showcase Your Research Experience:Detail your experience in conducting and publishing high-quality research. Include any relevant publications or presentations that showcase your ability to communicate complex concepts effectively.
Highlight Compliance Knowledge:Mention your understanding of data integrity, security, and compliance regulations related to genetic data. This will show that you are aware of the importance of maintaining high standards in data management.
How to prepare for a job interview at Optima Partners
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Be prepared to discuss your programming skills in R and Python, as well as your experience with bioinformatics tools. Highlight specific projects where you've successfully applied statistical genetics methodologies like GWAS or polygenic risk scoring.
✨Demonstrate Your Research Acumen
Discuss your past research experiences, especially those involving large-scale genomic datasets. Be ready to explain how you interpreted results and linked them to methodologies, showcasing your ability to conduct high-quality research.
✨Communicate Effectively
Practice explaining complex statistical genetic concepts in simple terms. Since you'll need to communicate with non-technical stakeholders, demonstrating your ability to bridge the gap between technical and non-technical audiences will be crucial.
✨Stay Updated on Industry Trends
Familiarise yourself with the latest advancements in statistical genetics and bioinformatics. Being able to discuss recent developments and how they could apply to the company's projects will show your enthusiasm and commitment to the field.
