Research Specialist in Data Science and Marine Socio-ecological Systems

We are seeking a highly motivated and quantitatively skilled Research Specialist with a strong background in data science, statistics, and programming to support ongoing and new research projects in the Integrated Reef Fisheries Lab at KAUST.

The Integrated Reef Fisheries Lab is dedicated to enhancing the sustainability of coral reef fisheries and aquatic food systems both in the Kingdom and around the world. Through collaborative, data-driven research, we integrate ecological, social, and economic data to develop innovative tools and strategies that support resilient fisheries and communities. Working closely with local stakeholders and global partners, our interdisciplinary team strives to create practical solutions that ensure the long-term health and productivity of reef ecosystems worldwide—especially in the face of climate change.

The research specialist will work closely with Professor Jessica Zamborain Mason and her team to conduct data-driven analyses, manage large and complex databases, support research design, assist in manuscript preparation, and help maintain smooth lab operations.

Are you passionate about using data science to tackle real-world environmental challenges? Be part of a team that turns data into solutions—protecting ecosystems and empowering communities worldwide.

Expectations

1. Data Management & Analysis

• Develop, maintain, and optimize data pipelines for collecting, cleaning, harmonizing and transforming large and complex datasets including a range of environmental, ecological, social and economic variables.
• Conduct statistical and geospatial analyses, data visualization, and mechanistic modeling as required by project goals.
• Ensure data integrity, reproducibility, and documentation throughout the research lifecycle.
• Collaborate with the PI to interpret and summarize analytical results.

2. Research & Writing Support

• Conduct literature reviews and synthesize findings relevant to ongoing research topics.
• Assist in preparing manuscripts, reports, presentations, and grant proposals.
• Contribute to writing methods sections and developing reproducible analysis scripts.

3. Technical Infrastructure

• Manage code repositories and collaborative workflows using GitHub/GitLab.
• Maintain documentation of code, workflows, and data sources.
• Contribute to the development of automated pipelines and reproducible research frameworks.

4. Lab Coordination & Administration

• Support the PI in coordinating research activities, meetings, and lab schedules.
• Assist with data sharing, compliance, and ethics documentation.
• Help onboard and mentor new lab members in data practices and computational tools.

About KAUST:

KAUST is an international graduate-level, merit-based research university dedicated to advancing scientific and technological education and research, acting as a catalyst for innovation, economic development and social prosperity in the region and the world. Our research strives to enhance the welfare of society with a special focus on four areas of global significance – food, water, energy and health. Based near Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, KAUST has attracted top-notch faculty and staff from all over the world, with more than 80 nations represented on campus. In addition to an unparalleled research infrastructure, KAUST offers terrific opportunities to pursue innovation and economic development via startups. For further information about KAUST please visit:

https://www.kaust.edu.sa

https://www.kaust.edu.sa/en/live/community-life

https://bese.kaust.edu.sa

At KAUST, we attract people from all around the world who want to create impact beyond their own achievements. Irrespective of their national origins, the people of KAUST are “people of the world” who uphold our values of achievement, passion, inspiration, citizenship, diversity, integrity, and openness. Located on the beautiful Red Sea coast of Saudi Arabia, KAUST sets exceptional standards in residences, recreational facilities and boasts a truly multicultural community environment which can be enjoyed by all, along with ample opportunities and time to keep work and life in harmony. Expats are very well looked after, with packages including tax-free salary, relocation, accommodation and various additional incentives.

Join us for an adventure!

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Data Science, Statistics, Computer Science, Environmental Science, or a related quantitative field.
• Strong proficiency in R for data manipulation, analysis, and visualization.
• Familiarity with Git and GitHub for version control and collaborative coding.
• Excellent communication, writing, and organizational skills.
• Proven ability to work with large and complex datasets.
• Experience contributing to peer-reviewed publications.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively in multidisciplinary research environments.

To apply, please submit the following documents:

• CV
• Cover letter outlining your research experience and motivation for this position (maximum of 2 pages)
• Contact details for (at least) two references