Data Scientist

ABOUT DESCARTES UNDERWRITING

Join Descartes and contribute to our mission:
Building Resilience in a World at Risk.

Descartes is a corporate insurance group for worldwide companies and institutions. Descartes was born from a conviction that the growing complexity of corporate and climate risks demands a new approach to insurance. At the forefront of AI and Data analysis, Descartes utilises cutting-edge technology combined with a new generation of data sources, to model, assess and manage risks.

Since 2019, Descartes has secured a leading position in parametric (re) insurance combining scientific and technological expertise with a new approach. Parametric insurance, also known as index-based insurance, indemnifies clients within days based on pre-defined payout structures when a specific triggering event occurs, the payout process is both fast and transparent. The company has been financed with over $141M by investors including Highland Europe, Black Fin, Serena, Cathay, Eurazeo and Battery Ventures.

Our highly diverse and specialized team of 250+ people includes the largest modeling team in the industry featuring tech and modeling innovators, scientists in physics and climatology, as well as insurance veterans and underwriters. With a global footprint and strong US presence, Descartes serves a diverse portfolio of clients in more than 60 countries, with 20+ offices spread across Europe, Asia‑Pacific, Latin and North America.

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Due to rapid growth, we are seeking to expand our Data Science team across our Underwriting functions and we are looking for Data Scientists to join our team in London. As a Data Scientist, your missions will focus on making direct contributions to the development of new climate models or forecasting tools.

Your key missions will include:

• Improving or developing new algorithms, new risk models and products for our B2B client;
• Identifying, implementing and deploying new statistical and machine learning methods to differentiate Descartes from its competitors;
• Participating in the development of Descartes’ technological platform;
• Collaborating with the business team to understand client needs and issues to further strengthen our technical excellence;
• Taking on management responsibilities as both you and the company develop;
• Working autonomously and pragmatically to make appropriate technical decisions.

• Master’s student in data science, computer science, applied mathematics, statistics or meteorological studies or related;
• Ideally a previous experience (long‑term internship) in data science or climate modeling is valued.

• Proficient in statistics, applied mathematics and machine learning methods;
• Capable of building high‑performance algorithms;
• Proficiency in Python (e.g. scikit‑learn);
• Fluency in English (written and verbal communication) is required;
• Good command of one additional language (e.g. Chinese, French, Italian, German, Spanish…) is valued.

• Interested in weather and natural perils modeling (wildfires, hail, tsunamis, earthquakes etc);
• Excellent team player with an entrepreneurial mindset and value of diversity;
• Highly motivated, able to meet deadlines set;
• Strong desire to learn and commitment to the organization’s mission;
• Results oriented, high energy, with the ability to work in a dynamic and multi‑cultural environment;
• Eager to learn more about the insurance industry.

• Opportunity to work and learn with teams from the most prestigious schools and research labs in the world, allowing you to progress towards technical excellence;
• Commitment from Descartes to its staff of continued learning and development (think annual seminars, training etc.);
• Work in a collaborative & professional environment;
• Be part of a dynamic international team, passionate about diversity;
• Join a company with a true purpose – help us help our clients be more resilient towards climate risks;
• A competitive salary, bonus and benefits;
• You can benefit from punctual home office days.

At Descartes Underwriting, we cherish the value of diversity whatever it may be. We are committed to fighting against all forms of discrimination and for equal opportunities. We foster an inclusive work environment that respects all differences.

With equal skills, all our positions are open to people with disabilities.

• Step 1: HR Interview with our Talent Recruiter;
• Step 2:
  Technical online test on Github;
• Step 3:
  Remote technical interview with a Data Scientist;
• Step 4:
  In‑person team interview to meet our Data Scientist team and discover our offices (could be held remotely if you are abroad).