Data Science Academy

Your passion for data science sustains farming, food and planet.

You wish to dedicate your data science expertise to meaningful applications in agriculture? You would like to contribute to shape the future of breeding and farming?

We produce and analyze huge amounts of data at various layers within KWS: From whole-genome sequencing data to drone flights across our fields and market data for our commercial products. We are looking for data science enthusiasts to generate new insights and added value from this treasure trove of data.

You will gain experience with many of these applications and contribute to their further development!

Your quick check

What we offer

A unique 2-year program to train the next generation of data scientists at KWS.
Start with a technical onboarding: Learn how to run data science projects at KWS and build networks with other data scientists.
Multiple assignments of 2-9 month each in different departments, starting with research and development.
Supervision by domain and technical experts.
At least one stay (several weeks) at an international breeding station.
A tailormade training and learning experience.

Your perspective

Experience in several (at least four) different specialized departments contributing to the manifold digital landscape within KWS.
Training in programming, software development, data analytics.
Developing an understanding of added value through digitization.
International teamwork across continents – while based in Einbeck, Germany.
Comprehensive and state-ot-the-art training – the perfect prerequisite for creating innovations for farmers, food, and the planet.

Your attributes

Passion for data and the ability to derive insights from big data.
University degree (MSc or equivalent) with a focus on data science related subjects.
Either strong knowledge and experience in data science and an interest in applying it to plant breeding, or a background in agriculture/biology with a strong affinity for data.
Fluent in at least one programming language such as R, Python, Julia or similar.
Flexibility and openness to changing teams and working groups, for the diverse assignments. At least one assignment will be abroad.

I like about my job to have free space to develop and improve – both by studying on my own and by exchanging with colleagues.

Wera Eckhoff, Data Scientist at KWS

FAQ

What is the difference between the “KWS Data Science Academy” and the “Growing with Science – Data Science Track”?

The Data Science Academy is steered by the Research and Development department of KWS in close cooperation with additional stakeholders from the entire KWS Group. The training program is tailored to the individual without an overarching fixed rhythm. Data science and research experts are in the drivers’ seat. You will receive comprehensive expert training for the start of your career, with all options for further development in various directions.

The graduate program “Growing with Science – Data Science Track” focuses on management and business skills. Its steering is centralized in administrative functions and follows the pacing of the economy-focused graduate program “Growing into the Future”.

And what follows the Data Science Academy?

Our goal is to train Data Scientists for our growing company worldwide. As soon as a fitting position for a data scientist becomes available, the duration of the Data Science Academy training can even be shortened. However, there is no guaranteed transfer to a permanent position. This depends not only on the performance during the training, but also on the availability of a position.

Deadlines? When can I apply?

There are no deadlines. The training is individual and not included to large cohorts, starting time can be adjusted to the individual. As soon as there is a job post on our webpage, there is a position available. We recommend registering for our job newsletter.

Alternative programs offered by KWS?

The Data Science Academy is the “younger sister” of the Breeders’ Academy – a success story since 2009: The focus is on comprehensive training for product development and technical solutions. With a breeding background but sound affinity to data and data science applications you might want to apply for the Data Science Academy.

The graduate programs called “Growing into the Future”, “Growing with Science” aim to qualify for economics and management roles. They follow a fixed yearly rhythm and will be published on our career page.

There might Trainee positions published from time to time, which will lead to a comprehensive insight for a specific area. In case of availability, it will be well described in the job add.

Feel free to consider direct entrance options as software developer, data analyst, bioinformatician, etc.! Please check out the career page and job portal.