Principal Data Scientist and AI Lead

Job Description:

Located in Ōtautahi | Christchurch, Aotearoa | New Zealand

• Lead the strategic application of artificial intelligence and advanced data science across UC
• Continuing, full-time position, 37.5 hours per week
• 5 weeks’ annual leave plus 5 days’ university holidays
• Generous employer contribution to superannuation of up to 6.75%

Kia hiwa rā, kia hiwa rā!
He hiahia, he pūkenga nōu ki te mahi a te Principal Data Scientist and AI Lead? Nāia te pōwhiri nā Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha kia tono mai i te tūranga nei.

Āu Mahi | What You Will Do

As Principal Data Scientist and AI Lead, you will provide senior leadership for the strategic application of artificial intelligence and advanced data science within Analytics and Institutional Research (AIR) and across the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic portfolio. Reporting to the Director of AIR, you will shape how AI is used to improve capability, efficiency, decision-making, and impact.

You will set direction for advanced analytics, predictive modelling, experimentation, and responsible AI adoption; lead the development of UC’s data science and AI capability; and translate complex institutional questions into practical, high-impact solutions. You will also help develop UC’s multi-year data strategy and advise on data governance, ethics, quality, and stewardship.

This is a hands-on leadership role. Alongside guiding investment and priorities, you will contribute directly to proof-of-concept AI and machine-learning solutions, establish robust evaluation frameworks, and lead a small specialist team to deliver measurable value at scale.

Mōu | Who You Are

Alongside your Masters Degree, you will bring demonstrated significant experience in data science and/or advanced analytics, including leadership of high performing specialist staff. This includes:

• Applying generative AI and large language models—such as retrieval-augmented generation, agentic, or assistant-style systems—to real organisational problems
• Core analytics methods, predictive modelling, statistical inference, experimentation, SQL, and Python
• Cloud platforms and data services used to deliver analytics, for example Microsoft Azure or Snowflake
• Developing data strategy and strengthening data management, governance, quality, ethics, and responsible AI practices
• Building trusted relationships, communicating technical direction clearly, and influencing senior stakeholders across an organisation

Mahi Ngātahi | Who You Will Work With

You will report to the Director of Analytics and Institutional Research and lead a small specialist team comprising Data science and analysis capabilities. You will work closely with the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic, senior leaders, governance groups, data owners and stewards, Digital Services’ Data and AI team, He Kokonga colleagues, and external University and practitioner networks.

Ngā Painga o UC | Why UC

At UC, being part of our team means more than just a job. We are committed to supporting our kaimahi | staff’s career and wellbeing with benefits designed to help our kaimahi grow and feel connected, supported, and valued.

We offer a range of benefits, for more information, please visit us: https://www.canterbury.ac.nz/about-uc/work-at-uc/benefits-working-uc . (For more information about Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury, please visit https://www.canterbury.ac.nz/ )

The closing date for this position is: Sunday, 16 August 2026 (midnight, NZ time)

Please note, applications will be reviewed as they are received, and interviews may take place before the close date.

Pēhea te tono mai | How You Apply

Applications for this position must be submitted via our careers website and should include a cover letter and resume.

Please note, we do not accept applications by email. We are happy to answer queries about the application process; please send these to [email protected].

You must have Aotearoa New Zealand or Australian citizenship or permanent residency to be considered for this role.

Please note, this is an onsite position.

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