The International Water Management Institute (IWMI), a CGIAR Research Center is seeking a motivated and talented professional to join its headquarters in Battaramulla, Sri Lanka as an Assistant Research Officer – Water Data Science.

The Assistant Research Officer – Water Data Science will collaborate on water-related projects, focusing on digital twin development, AI-powered simulations, and real-time 3D modeling. They will leverage AI frameworks, remote sensing, and big data technologies to enhance decision-making in water resource management. The role requires strong skills in Python, deep learning, GIS software, and cloud computing.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop digital twins for water management by integrating AI models, hydrological simulations, and 3D visualization technologies.
• Implement real-time physics-based simulations for water-related applications using NVIDIA Omniverse, Isaac Sim, or Unreal Engine.
• Leverage computer vision and deep learning for water monitoring, utilizing models such as YOLO, TensorRT, and ONNX-based neural networks.
• Apply remote sensing and GIS techniques to analyze satellite and aerial imagery for water management.
• Develop and optimize AI-driven predictive models using multi-modal learning (e.g., combining imagery, sensor data, and hydrology models).
• Collaborate with hydrologists, engineers, and AI researchers to integrate machine learning into water resource planning.
• Deploy AI models and workflows on cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure, Google Cloud) for large-scale data processing.
• Maintain and enhance digital twin models, ensuring they remain accurate, efficient, and aligned with real-world hydrological dynamics.
• Communicate findings through interactive dashboards, reports, and scientific presentations.

Requirements

EDUCATIONAL QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE:

Essential,

• Bachelor’s degree in Software Engineering, Data Science, Hydrology, Water Resources Engineering, Environmental Science, or a related field.
• At least 01 year of experience in AI-driven 3D modeling, digital twins, or real-time simulation.
• Experience in deep learning, computer vision, and AI frameworks.
• Experience with NVIDIA AI and simulation tools, such as Omniverse, Isaac Sim, PhysX, TensorRT, CUDNN.
• Experience in GIS and remote sensing, with proficiency in Google Earth Engine, QGIS, or ArcGIS.
• Familiarity with multi-modal AI techniques combining spatial, numerical, and visual data.
• Experience deploying models in cloud environments (e.g., AWS, Azure, Google Cloud).
• Experience with deep learning models for spatial and hydrological applications.
• Experience with big data processing, version control (GitHub), and cloud-based ML workflows.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

Essential,

• Expertise in AI-powered 3D simulations and digital twin technologies.
• Proficiency in computer vision (e.g., object detection, segmentation, multi-view geometry).
• Strong understanding of hydrology models and their integration into AI pipelines.
• Strong programming skills in Python & proficiency in Python-based AI libraries (TensorFlow, PyTorch, OpenCV, Hugging Face).
• Ability to optimize AI inference using NVIDIA TensorRT and ONNX.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work in interdisciplinary teams.
• Excellent oral and written language skills in English, including effective listening and strong verbal and written communication abilities.

Benefits

This is a nationally recruited position and only Sri Lankan nationals will be considered. IWMI offers a competitive salary and benefits package, inclusive of health insurance, life insurance, accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) insurance, and long-term disability coverage. The duration of the contract will initially be for one year, with the possibility of extension.

HOW TO APPLY: Apply for the position by following the application instructions at www.iwmi.org/jobs. We will be accepting applications through 24:00 (IST) on March 02, 2025 (applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis). Your application must include a CV, cover letter, and three (3) references, which may be contacted if you are shortlisted. Receipt of all applications will be acknowledged, but only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

IWMI believes that diversity powers our innovation, contributes to our excellence, and is critical for our mission. We offer a multi-cultural, multi-color, multi-generational and multi-disciplinary working environment. We are consciously creating an inclusive organization that reflects our global character and our commitment to gender equity. We, therefore, encourage applicants from all cultures, races, ethnicities, religions, sexes, national or regional origins, ages, disability status, sexual orientations, and gender identities.

Level of Education: Bachelor Degree

Work Hours: 8

Experience in Months: No requirements