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Trainee Data Science Jobs in Toronto, ON (NOW HIRING)

Trainee Data Science information

What does a trainee data scientist do?

A Trainee Data Scientist assists in gathering, cleaning, and analyzing data to support business decisions. They work under the guidance of senior data scientists to learn about data modeling, statistical analysis, and using tools such as Python, R, or SQL. Their responsibilities often include preparing reports, visualizing data, and contributing to the development of predictive models. The goal is to build foundational skills and gain hands-on experience in the field of data science.

What are some common challenges faced by trainee data scientists during their initial projects, and how can they overcome them?

Trainee Data Scientists often encounter challenges such as working with messy or incomplete datasets, understanding complex business problems, and selecting the appropriate modeling techniques. Collaborating closely with experienced team members and seeking feedback can help trainees navigate these obstacles. Additionally, actively participating in code reviews and knowledge-sharing sessions accelerates learning and builds confidence in tackling real-world data science tasks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a trainee data scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Trainee Data Scientist, you need a foundational understanding of statistics, programming (often Python or R), and data analysis, usually supported by a relevant degree or coursework in mathematics, computer science, or engineering. Familiarity with data visualization tools (such as Tableau or Power BI), machine learning libraries (like scikit-learn or TensorFlow), and basic database systems is often expected. Strong problem-solving skills, curiosity, and effective communication help you interpret data insights and collaborate with team members. These skills are crucial for extracting actionable insights from data and contributing meaningfully to data-driven projects.

What is the difference between Trainee Data Science vs Data Analyst?

AspectTrainee Data ScienceData Analyst
Required CredentialsBasic degree in related field, entry-level certificationsDegree in statistics, mathematics, or related field, often with certifications
Work EnvironmentInternship or entry-level role in tech or finance companiesBusiness, finance, marketing departments across industries
Employer & Industry UsageStart of data career path, training-focused rolesData-driven decision making, reporting, and analysis

In summary, a Trainee Data Science role is an entry-level position focused on learning and developing skills in data science, often as part of an internship or training program. A Data Analyst typically has more experience in analyzing data, creating reports, and supporting business decisions. Both roles are essential in data-driven industries but differ mainly in experience level and scope of responsibilities.

Can you get into trainee data science with no experience?

Trainee data science roles often do not require prior experience and are designed for beginners. Candidates typically need foundational skills in programming, statistics, or data analysis, which can be gained through online courses or self-study. Demonstrating a willingness to learn and basic knowledge of tools like Python or Excel can improve chances of entry-level hiring.

How do I get a job in trainee data science with no experience?

To secure a trainee data science position with no experience, focus on building foundational skills in programming languages like Python or R, and learn data analysis and visualization tools such as SQL and Tableau. Completing online courses, certifications, or projects can demonstrate your abilities to employers and improve your chances of entry-level roles.

What are the most commonly searched types of Data Science jobs in Toronto, ON?

The most popular types of Data Science jobs in Toronto, ON are:

What are popular job titles related to Trainee Data Science jobs in Toronto, ON?

For Trainee Data Science jobs in Toronto, ON, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Trainee Data Science jobs in Toronto, ON look for?

The top searched job categories for Trainee Data Science jobs in Toronto, ON are:

What cities near Toronto, ON are hiring for Trainee Data Science jobs?

Cities near Toronto, ON with the most Trainee Data Science job openings:

Infographic showing various Trainee Data Science job openings in Toronto, ON as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution.

Early Career or Mid-Career Principal Investigator

Ontario Institute for Cancer Research

Toronto, ON • On-site

CA$177K - CA$221K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

About OICR

OICR is Ontario's cancer research institute. We bring together people from across the province and around the world to improve the lives of everyone affected by cancer. We take on the biggest challenges in cancer research and deliver real-world solutions to find cancer earlier and treat it more effectively. We are committed to helping people living with cancer, as well as future generations, live longer and healthier lives.

Launched in December 2005, OICR is an independent institute funded by the Government of Ontario through theMinistry ofColleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security.

Position Details

Position: Early Career to Mid-Career Principal Investigator

Location: MaRS Centre, Toronto

Department: Computational Biology

Reports To: Scientific Director, Computational Biology

Hiring Range: Early Career $144,000 to $181,000 per annum

Mid-Career $177,000 to $221,000 per annum

Commensurate with experience; total compensation includes a competitive benefits plan, plus a defined benefit pension plan (HOOPP)
Hours: 35 hours/week

Job Type: Hybrid

Status: Full-time, Permanent

Position Summary

The Ontario Institute for Cancer Research (OICR) is looking to fill an existing vacancy for an Early Career or Mid-Career Principal Investigator (PI) in Computational Biology to undertake world-class cancer research. We welcome applications from individuals at all career stages, including those wishing to establish their first research lab. The Computational Biology Program develops and applies data analysis approaches to advance OICR's strategic priority on early cancer detection and interception. We seek to strengthen and expand our existing expertise in cancer genomics, statistical genetics, next-generation sequence analysis, biological knowledge bases and pathway/network analysis. We are particularly interested in, but not limited to, research that complements these areas, including applications of artificial intelligence and machine learning (e.g. for digital histopathology, genomic variant effect prediction, drug target identification or the accurate prediction of genetic and chemical perturbations of biological pathways), and modelling and interpreting cancer evolution.

The PI will be expected to mentor trainees, to build collaborations both within and outside the OICR community, and to work withFACIT, OICR's commercialization partner, to translate research findings into real-world products and services. In addition to base funds provided by the Institute to support the PI's salary and core personnel, the PI is expected to raise additional research funds from external competitive granting agencies. OICR will assist the PI in obtaining a faculty appointment at the University of Toronto or another affiliated academic institution.

Housed within OICR's Adaptive Oncology theme, the Computational Biology Program provides a robust intellectual environment with multiple investigators working with technologies ranging from spatial 'omics to large language models of clinical records. An institutional cluster comprising ~9,000 CPU threads, and 18 GPU servers with a total of 36 NVIDIA CUDA cards as well as a large OpenStack virtualization environment, is available to support analysis by members of the Program. In addition, extensive compute resources, including large GPU clusters, are available to OICR faculty via Canada's Digital Research Alliance.

OICR is a multi-disciplinary, team-science-driven translational research institute with PIs working in the areas of medical imaging instrumentation, robotics, drug design and development, biomarker discovery and assay development, spatial biology, and genomics. In addition to the facilities provided by the Computational Biology Program, the candidate will have access to a series of technology platforms for large-scale molecular data generation ranging from whole genome sequencing of challenging clinical specimens, to spatial transcriptomics and proteomics, cell-free DNA analysis, long-read sequencing, and digital histopathology. OICR develops and hosts multiple biobanks comprising hundreds of thousands of tissue and blood specimens, including the Ontario Health Study and the Ontario Tumour Bank. In addition, OICR develops and operates multiple data-rich biological databases including the international ICGC-ARGO Cancer Genome data platform, the Ontario Hereditary Cancer Research Network, and the Ontario node of the TFRI Marathon of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Centre Network. We are the host institution for the Global Alliance for Genomics in Health and a co-developer of the Pan-Canadian Genome Library. Finally, we believe in open-source and community development and are a signatory to the San Francisco Declaration on Research Assessment (DORA).

Please visit https://oicr.on.ca/research-portfolio/ for details on our research portfolio.


For more information about OICR, please visit the website at www.oicr.on.ca.
To learn more about working at OICR, visit our career page.

Position Requirements

  • A PhD or MD with a proven track record in computational biology, bioinformatics, or biostatistics
  • Internationalrecognition and a strong publication record of relevance, proven leadership and management experience including the building of strong research teams, as well as a strong record of grant-funding and mentorship
  • Excellent communication and presentation skills

Please attach the following to your application:

  • A covering letter, including the names of three potential referees
  • A complete academic CV
  • A two to four page proposed research document, including a section highlighting relevance of the proposed studies to cancer


POSTED DATE: May 5, 2026

CLOSING DATE: July 31, 2026 at 2:00 p.m.
OICR is committed to fostering a climate of equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility. This commitment is central to, and mutually supportive of, our research excellence mandate. We welcome and respect the diversity of all members of our community and we support an inclusive culture for all. We welcome all applicants, and encourage applications from racialized persons, Indigenous Peoples, women, persons with disabilities, LGBTQ2S persons, and others who may contribute to furthering a diversity of ideas within our community. OICR is committed to fair assessment of a candidate's abilities, and consideration for diversity of thought, method, and experience. Providing an accessible workplace and recruitment process is important to us, as described in our Accessibility Plan (https://oicr.on.ca/accessibility/). Should you require accommodation during any stage in the recruitment process, please complete the form at the bottom of page https://oicr.on.ca/careers/. Information received related to accommodation will be handled confidentially.

OICR hiring managers may use approved Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools to assist with an initial screening or assessment of applications, and selection of applicants in accordance with OICR's privacy policies. Personal information associated with any job application will not be shared with or retained by any third party for the purpose of training an AI model. Hiring managers shall determine which applications proceed through the recruitment process.


Resume Format:If you elect to apply, please click on the "Apply for this Job" button. You will be required to enter contact details, and to attach your resume to your application.Please attach your resume as a .pdf or .doc file.

The Ontario Institute for Cancer Research thanks all applicants. However, only those under consideration will be contacted.