Data Scientist (Product Embedded ML)
Role overview
Reporting to the Lead Data Scientist, you’ll be responsible for the development and deployment of machine learning models that sit at the heart of our detection platform. Working closely with the R&D, product engineering, data engineering and firmware teams, you’ll help transform sensor and VOC (volatile organic compound) data into robust, real-time classification tools — from lab to live field deployment.
This role bridges data science, embedded ML, and applied product development. You’ll be working with real sensors, real-world constraints, and real devices — not just simulation or dashboarding.
Responsibilities
- check_circle Clean, structure, and analyse odour/sensor datasets for training and evaluation.
- check_circle Develop and optimise lightweight ML models (e.g. TensorFlow Lite) for embedded deployment.
- check_circle Collaborate with firmware engineers to integrate models into our smart trap prototypes (via platforms like Edge Impulse or custom firmware).
- check_circle Test model performance across lab, semi-field, and real-world settings; tune for reliability and accuracy.
- check_circle Maintain and document training pipelines, feature engineering methods, and model validation results.
- check_circle Support future product rollouts by adapting the detection model for different species, applications, and use environments.
- check_circle Assist in developing model-driven features for the platform (e.g. confidence scoring, anomaly detection, retraining logic).
- check_circle 5+ years of experience in applied data science or ML engineering roles.
- check_circle Strong applied experience in machine learning (ideally classification-focused).
- check_circle Proficiency in Python and relevant libraries (scikit-learn, TensorFlow, pandas, etc.).
- check_circle Experience working with real-world sensor or time-series data.
- check_circle Familiarity with embedded ML tools (e.g. TensorFlow Lite, Edge Impulse) or willingness to learn.
- check_circle Hands-on mindset — comfortable working in close collaboration with hardware, firmware, and product teams.
- check_circle Clear communicator who can explain model behaviour and constraints to non-technical collaborators.
- check_circle Experience in signal processing, low-power sensing, or IoT.
- check_circle Previous work on edge-deployable models.
- check_circle Interest or background in biology, chemistry, or environmental sensing.
- check_circle Familiarity with HDF5, metadata tagging, or sensor calibration pipelines.
- check_circle Experience in versioning datasets and ML workflows (e.g. MLFlow, DVC).
- check_circle Models in the field, not just the lab. You've taken at least one detection model from training through to embedded deployment on a live device — validated across lab, semi-field, and real-world conditions — with documented accuracy and reliability benchmarks that the product and R&D teams trust.
- check_circle A repeatable ML pipeline that others can build on. Training, feature engineering, validation, and versioning are no longer ad hoc processes. Working in collaboration with the Lead Data Scientist, you've established clean, documented workflows that mean the team isn't starting from scratch each time a new dataset, species, or use case arrives.
- check_circle The platform thesis is technically credible. You're actively contributing to dot.'s cross-domain ambitions — helping demonstrate that models and data structures built for one application (e.g. bed bug detection) can be adapted and transferred to others, supporting the Level 2 and Level 3 data value story we're building toward Series A.
- check_circle Firmware and hardware teams see you as a genuine collaborator. You're the bridge between data science and embedded systems — fluent enough in the constraints of the device environment that integration doesn't become a bottleneck, and trusted by engineers as someone who understands the real-world limits of what a model needs to do.
- check_circle dot.core has a stronger data foundation. Your work on sensor datasets - cleaning, structuring, metadata tagging, calibration pipelines - means dot.'s core data asset is more valuable, better labelled, and increasingly defensible as a proprietary dataset, not just a byproduct of discovery projects.
- check_circle Be part of a fast-growing, mission-driven company working at the intersection of science and technology.
- check_circle Your work will live in physical products that create measurable impact across public health, agriculture, and more.
- check_circle Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of scientists, engineers, and domain experts.
- check_circle Work in an environment that values autonomy, innovation, and meaningful problem-solving.
- check_circle This role requires a minimum of 3 days per week in our Edinburgh office. Are you able to commit to this?
- check_circle Have you deployed a machine learning model onto an embedded or edge device (e.g. TensorFlow Lite, Edge Impulse, or custom firmware)?
- check_circle Have you worked with real-world sensor or time-series data, rather than only tabular, image, or simulated datasets?
- check_circle What is your current notice period, in weeks?
- check_circle Briefly describe a time you adapted a model or pipeline built for one application to a different use case or domain.
- check_circle A Cover Letter is required for this position, please confirm this has been included in your application along with your CV.
- check_circle Data science or ML engineering: 5 years (preferred)
- check_circle United Kingdom (required)
About the company
At dot. we’re developing next-generation smart detection products that use advanced sensors, machine learning, and odour biomarkers to identify pests, pathogens, and other biological threats in real time. Our first smart product is nearing launch, with a broader platform vision across agriculture, animal health, and human diagnostics.
As we scale, we’re looking for a hands-on Data Scientist to help turn our sensor data into powerful machine learning models that run on embedded devices.