Data & AI
Machine Learning Engineer
Takes machine learning models from prototype to reliable, scalable production systems.
TechnicalHigh GrowthStem
Data & AI
Data Scientist
Builds statistical and machine learning models to uncover patterns in data and predict future outcomes.
Also known as: ML Scientist, Applied Scientist
Compare with another careerWhat you do
Turns business questions into testable hypotheses, explores and cleans large datasets, and builds predictive models that are validated with statistical rigor. Communicates findings and model limitations honestly to product and business teams, and often works alongside data engineers to move models toward production.
Typical work environment
Primarily desk-based work with data platforms and notebooks, embedded within a product or analytics team, with periodic presentations to leadership.
Typical entry point
Junior or associate data scientist role in a tech company, analytics team, or research group
Relevant subjects
Core
MathematicsComputer Science
Also relevant
Economics
Relevant interests
Core
AI / DataResearch
Also relevant
ProgrammingComputers
Useful skills
Python· AdvancedData analysis· AdvancedAnalytical thinking· AdvancedResearch· IntermediateCommunication· Intermediate
These are useful, relevant skills to build over time — not a checklist you need to already have.
Common education routes
Bachelor's degree—StatisticsPrimary route
Bachelor's degree—Computer SciencePrimary route
Master's degree—Data SciencePrimary route
Master's degree—Artificial Intelligence & Machine LearningCommon route
These are common routes in, not the only path — and not a university or course recommendation.
Career characteristics
Strong salary potentialDeep technical specialisationHigh job securityGood international mobilityRemote-work friendlyResearch-intensive
General tendencies for this career, not a guarantee — actual roles vary by employer and location.
Industries
SoftwareAIDataBankingResearch
Tags
TechnicalResearch-heavySTEMAnalytical
Related careers
Data & AI
Data Analyst
Turns raw business data into clear reports and dashboards that help teams make decisions.
Office BasedStemAnalytical
Data & AI
Data Engineer
Designs and maintains the pipelines and infrastructure that move and store data reliably at scale.
TechnicalOffice BasedStem
Featured
Data & AI
AI Engineer
Builds applications and systems powered by AI models, integrating them into products people actually use.
TechnicalHigh GrowthCreative
Data & AI
Quantitative Analyst
Builds mathematical models used to price financial instruments, manage risk, and inform trading strategies.
Research HeavyStemAnalytical
Data & AI
Business Intelligence Analyst
Builds and maintains dashboards and reporting systems that give business leaders an ongoing view of performance.
Client FacingOffice BasedAnalytical
This page describes the career itself — it isn't a personalised match for you. See how well it matches your own Student Digital Profile at /recommendations, or compare it against another career.