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Science Leadership Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

PROPRIUS

Director Data Science

San Francisco, CA

Data Science A Fortune 500 is looking for a proven Data Science leader to create a new Data Science team. This is your chance to build a department, define a strategy, and implement a road-map to ...

Navan

Senior Director, Data

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Build, mentor, and lead high-performing teams of data engineers, data scientists, and analysts. 2. AI Readiness & Data Science Leadership * * Drive the AI data strategy, ensuring data is curated ...

Tiger Analytics

Data Science Leader

California City, CA · On-site

$120 - $160/hr

Our business value and leadership have been recognized by various market research firms, including Forrester and Gartner. We are looking for a Senior Manager / Associate Director of Data Science to ...

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Science Leadership information

What is science leadership?

Science leadership refers to the roles and responsibilities of individuals who guide scientific research, innovation, and policy within organizations or institutions. Science leaders often direct research teams, manage projects, secure funding, and help set scientific priorities. They play a key role in fostering collaboration, mentoring junior scientists, and ensuring ethical standards. Effective science leaders also communicate scientific findings to stakeholders and the public, influencing the direction of scientific advancement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in science leadership?

To thrive in Science Leadership, you need a strong background in a scientific discipline, experience in research management, and often an advanced degree such as a PhD. Familiarity with data analysis software, project management tools, and grant-writing systems is typically required. Exceptional communication, strategic thinking, and team-building abilities set outstanding science leaders apart. These competencies enable effective guidance of research teams, secure funding, and foster innovation in scientific organizations.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in science leadership roles, and how can they be effectively managed?

Professionals in Science Leadership roles often encounter challenges such as balancing administrative duties with scientific research, managing interdisciplinary teams, and ensuring clear communication across departments. Navigating conflicting priorities and fostering an environment that encourages innovation while maintaining project timelines are also frequent hurdles. These challenges can be effectively managed by developing strong organizational skills, delegating responsibilities appropriately, and promoting open, transparent communication within the team. Additionally, ongoing leadership training and mentorship can help cultivate the skills needed to address both scientific and managerial aspects of the role.

What is the difference between Science Leadership vs Research Scientist?

AspectScience LeadershipResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsAdvanced degrees (PhD), leadership experienceTypically PhD or Master's, specialized research skills
Work EnvironmentManagement, strategic planning, team oversightLaboratory or field research, data analysis
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, biotech, pharma, academiaUniversities, research labs, industry R&D
Common Search & ComparisonLeadership roles in scienceHands-on research roles

Science Leadership involves managing teams, setting research strategies, and overseeing projects, often requiring leadership experience and advanced degrees. Research Scientists focus on conducting experiments, analyzing data, and advancing scientific knowledge through hands-on research. While both roles are integral to scientific progress, Science Leadership emphasizes management and strategic planning, whereas Research Scientists concentrate on experimental work.

What are popular job titles related to Science Leadership jobs in California?

For Science Leadership jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Science Leadership jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Science Leadership jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Science Leadership jobs?

Cities in California with the most Science Leadership job openings:

Science Leadership jobs near you
Infographic showing various Science Leadership job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 77% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution.

Director Data Science

PROPRIUS

San Francisco, CA

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Director Data Science

Location: San Francisco, CA

Sponsorship: Yes

Relocation: Yes

Industry: Data Science

A Fortune 500 is looking for a proven Data Science leader to create a new Data Science team. This is your chance to build a department, define a strategy, and implement a road-map to create and build data science products.


The department will be part of a new innovation center, essentially a start-up within a bigger organization. As the new leader of this department it is imperative that you bring disruptive ideas, creative mindsets and hire top-notch technical talent. The head of this new Data Science division will be expected to solve classic e-commerce problems; targeted advertising and marketing, recommendation systems, behavioral analytics and customer profiling, supply chain optimization, etc.


You will be tasked with designing, building and selling analytics tools and products within the wider business and build a world class team to help you accomplish the vision you have submitted to stakeholders. This is an incredible opportunity to make a significant impact on a multibillion-dollar business; greenfield positions like this do not come around often.

For this opportunity you will need:

  • PhD in Computer Science/related field/equivalent industry experience.
  • Extensive Data Science experience preferably in different environments.
  • Experience in building Data Science product and putting it into production.
  • Ability to define and implement a global Data Science strategy.
  • Proven track record in a Data Science leadership position.
  • Strong Machine Learning experience.
  • Ability to communicate effectively and influence at the C-level.

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