Data Scientist, Center Black Digital Research

Position Overview

The Pennsylvania State University Libraries seek a creative and forward‑thinking Data Scientist to advance computational research and digital scholarship using archival collections and datasets at the Eberly Family Special Collections Library (SCL). The Data Scientist will collaborate closely with the Center for Black Digital Research (CBDR) and its interdisciplinary faculty directorate to steward and computationally explore archival collections while advancing research initiatives and digital scholarship projects through CBDR.

• Develop innovative computational approaches for working with digital collections and datasets, including machine learning, large language models, data visualization, and emerging methods.
• Lead or co‑lead technical innovations and new efforts to explore and present machine learning and other technologies that address technical challenges and advance CBDR’s work.
• Problem‑solve moderate to complex challenges, proposing solutions with clear benefits, limitations, and impact aligned with CBDR’s digital ecosystem.
• Analyze system pipelines, workflows, and software options; propose solutions to ensure scalability, interoperability, and sustainability of computing and digital publishing infrastructures.
• Contribute to maintenance, sustainability, and documentation of CBDR digital infrastructures, computational applications, and related software.
• Organize, assign, and review work to verify accuracy, quality, and adherence to professional standards.
• Share expertise at conferences, training programs, and publications to advance CBDR scholarly research agendas and elevate the profile of Black public and digital humanities.
• Collaborate with colleagues to consider critical questions and ethics of digital access and exploration, particularly regarding the use of AI systems with archives of marginalized communities.
• Lead or co‑lead presentations, workshops, and trainings on ethical use of machine learning and archival research.
• Supervise part‑time team members (e.g., graduate and undergraduate students) as needed.

• Experience critically applying computational methods to collecting, refining, analyzing, and interpreting complex datasets.
• Outstanding problem‑solving skills.
• Effective written and oral communication skills; ability to tailor messages to diverse audiences.
• Inclusive and respectful collaboration with others.
• Proficiency in best practices in digital humanities, computer and information sciences, data science, and/or machine learning.
• Proficiency in Python.

• Experience with collaborative research in Black digital collections and/or archives.
• Experience with interdisciplinary teams transforming content management systems to meet stakeholder community needs.
• Experience supporting learners from varied backgrounds to build digital competency.
• Experience using data visualization and mapping software to translate complex data for non‑specialist audiences.
• Leadership skills for building and managing teams dealing with data and digital collections.
• Experience securing external funding and/or grant proposal writing.

For a Research Data Scientist – Senior Professional:
Master’s degree + 6+ years of relevant experience (or equivalent combination). For a Research Data Scientist – Advanced Professional:
Bachelor’s degree + 3+ years of relevant experience (or equivalent combination). Required fields include computer science, data science, information science, information management, African American Studies, African Studies, History, or English. No certifications required.

Applicants must submit a resume and cover letter. The position is funded for three years; continuation will be based on university need, performance, and funding. Flexible work arrangements (remote or hybrid) may be considered when aligned with essential duties.

Competitive salary range: $76,700.00 – $. Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage plus retirement plans and paid time off. Employees receive a 75% tuition discount for themselves and eligible spouses and children.

Penn State is an equal‑opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. We embrace inclusion and belonging as core values. Applicants unable to use the online application process due to impairment or disability should contact Penn State for assistance.