OPT Data Science Director Jobs
Data Science Director jobs on OPT require an employer willing to sponsor H-1B visa or provide cap-exempt work authorization before your OPT period ends. Most roles demand 8-plus years of experience and strong leadership credentials, making early employer engagement and STEM OPT extension planning essential for international students.
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Get Access To All JobsAssistant Professor - Data Science
College: College of Science and Engineering - 323 College
Dept/School: Mathematics & Statistics - 32361
Vacancy Number: 16F-833
Position Number: 5512
Location of Workplace: Main UNCW Campus
Brief Summary of Work for this Position
The Department of Mathematics and Statistics at the University of North Carolina Wilmington invites applications for a nine-month, tenure-track position at the rank of Assistant Professor in Data Science, starting Fall 2027. We seek a dynamic scholar whose teaching and research will support our growing data science programs while enriching the broader mathematical community.
The successful candidate will be expected to develop and maintain an active research program in data science or a closely related area, teach undergraduate and graduate courses supporting the department’s data science, mathematics, and statistics programs, and contribute to the continued development of the data science curriculum. Areas of particular interest include mathematical foundations of data science, optimization, machine learning, large language models, and artificial intelligence. The successful candidate will also contribute to student research and mentoring and participate in interdisciplinary collaborations across the university.
The department offers undergraduate programs in mathematics and statistics, and graduate programs in mathematics, statistics, and data science. We are committed to supporting new faculty through mentorship, professional development, and a collaborative academic environment. We especially welcome candidates whose research, teaching, and service will contribute to the diversity, equity, and excellence of our academic community.
Minimum Education and Experience Requirements
- A PhD in Mathematics, Applied Mathematics or a closely related field is required in order to be eligible for employment in this position.
- Please note: ABD candidates will be considered; however, the PhD must be conferred by August 1, 2027, to be eligible for employment.
Preferred Education, Knowledge, Skills & Experience
- Postdoctoral experience
- Demonstrated interest in undergraduate and graduate research
- Potential to collaborate with existing faculty on research
- Teaching experience
- Potential to secure external funding
Required Certifications or Licensure
No Required Certifications or Licensure
Primary Function of Organizational Unit
The department offers undergraduate programs in mathematics, statistics, and data science, a certificate in actuarial science, and graduate programs in mathematics and data science, as well as a post-baccalaureate certificate in statistics. The department and university are committed to assisting new faculty to succeed through continual faculty development and mentorship. The department is especially interested in qualified candidates who can contribute, through their teaching and service, to the diversity and excellence of the academic community.
College/School Information
The College of Science and Engineering offers a variety of programs leading to Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees, as well as Doctor of Philosophy degrees in applied coastal and ocean sciences; pharmaceutical chemistry; integrative, comparative, and marine biology; and psychology degrees. The college also offers combined bachelor’s/master’s degree programs in information technology/computer science and information systems, computer science/computer science and information systems, and B.S. in mathematics/M.S. in mathematics. To implement its academic programs, the college provides instruction and research opportunities in the natural and behavioral sciences, information technology, data science, computer science, mathematics, pre-engineering, and engineering. The eight academic departments in the college provide courses of study in each of these areas, in addition to interdepartmental programs in information technology, cybersecurity, and digital arts. A 2+2 in engineering; and 3+2 programs in computer science and electrical or computer engineering; and physics and electrical engineering, are also offered in the college. Post-baccalaureate certificate programs in environmental studies, applied statistics, and geographic information science are also available.
CSE students work with distinguished faculty and scientists, use cutting-edge technology, and conduct impactful research. Faculty-directed research projects empower CSE students to apply what they learn inside the classroom and laboratory to real-world situations and prepares them for a variety of careers or advanced study.
University Information
The University of North Carolina Wilmington, the state’s coastal university, is dedicated to the integration of teaching, mentoring, research, and service. Widely acknowledged for its world-class faculty and staff and continuously recognized at a national level for scholarly excellence and affordability, UNCW offers a powerful academic experience that stimulates creative inquiry and critical thinking.
A public institution with nearly 18,000 students, UNCW offers a full range of baccalaureate- and graduate-level programs, as well as doctoral degrees in educational leadership, marine biology, nursing practice, and psychology; and many distance learning options, including clinical research, an accelerated RN-to-BSN program, an Executive M.B.A. program structured for working professionals, and the nation’s only bachelor’s degree program focused on coastal engineering.
The university’s efforts to advance research and scholarly activities have earned UNCW the elevated designation of “Doctoral Universities: High Research Activity” institution (R2 University) by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education.
UNCW has been part of the University of North Carolina System since 1969.
EEO Statement
UNCW does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of his or her race, sex (such as gender, gender identity, marital status, childbirth, and pregnancy), age, color, national origin (including ethnicity), religion, disability, sexual orientation, political affiliation, veteran status, military service member status, genetic information, or relationship to other university constituents – except where sex, age, or ability represent bona fide educational or occupational qualifications or where marital status is a statutorily established eligibility criterion for State funded employee benefit programs.
Eligibility for Employment
Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. UNC Wilmington participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.
Number of Openings: Single Incumbent
Special Notes to Applicants
Prior to the official appointment to the university, the candidate(s) selected for hire must be able to demonstrate eligibility to teach assigned courses by successfully meeting the credentialing requirements based on official transcripts and other documentation as required.
Applications will be accepted until 11:59PM EST December 15, 2026, which is the posting close date. Applicants are required to submit the following items in Adobe PDF or MS Word format online at https://jobs.uncw.edu/postings/41450:
- Cover letter
- Curriculum vitae
- A statement of teaching philosophy (2 page maximum)
- Research summary – A statement of research interests that highlights how the applicant could make use of departmental expertise or resources (2 page maximum).
- List of 3 Professional References. References will be requested during a later stage of the applicant screening process. If ABD at time of application, one reference must be from Dissertation Chair.
- If needed, applicants may upload additional materials under the ‘Other’ category.
Questions regarding the online application process, contact the CSE Employment Coordinator, Christy Langdon at langdonc@uncw.edu, while questions regarding the position can be directed to the Search Committee Co-Chairs, Dr. Xuemei Chen, Co-Chair at chenxuemei@uncw.edu, and Dr. Indranil Ghosh, Co-Chair at ghoshi@uncw.edu.
Position Type: Permanent
Job Posting Date: 11/06/2026
Job Close Date: 12/15/2026
Applicant Documents
Required Documents
- Cover Letter
- Curriculum Vita
- Teaching Philosophy
- Research Summary
- List of 3 Professional References
Optional Documents
- Other
Assistant Professor - Data Science
College: College of Science and Engineering - 323 College
Dept/School: Mathematics & Statistics - 32361
Vacancy Number: 16F-833
Position Number: 5512
Location of Workplace: Main UNCW Campus
Brief Summary of Work for this Position
The Department of Mathematics and Statistics at the University of North Carolina Wilmington invites applications for a nine-month, tenure-track position at the rank of Assistant Professor in Data Science, starting Fall 2027. We seek a dynamic scholar whose teaching and research will support our growing data science programs while enriching the broader mathematical community.
The successful candidate will be expected to develop and maintain an active research program in data science or a closely related area, teach undergraduate and graduate courses supporting the department’s data science, mathematics, and statistics programs, and contribute to the continued development of the data science curriculum. Areas of particular interest include mathematical foundations of data science, optimization, machine learning, large language models, and artificial intelligence. The successful candidate will also contribute to student research and mentoring and participate in interdisciplinary collaborations across the university.
The department offers undergraduate programs in mathematics and statistics, and graduate programs in mathematics, statistics, and data science. We are committed to supporting new faculty through mentorship, professional development, and a collaborative academic environment. We especially welcome candidates whose research, teaching, and service will contribute to the diversity, equity, and excellence of our academic community.
Minimum Education and Experience Requirements
- A PhD in Mathematics, Applied Mathematics or a closely related field is required in order to be eligible for employment in this position.
- Please note: ABD candidates will be considered; however, the PhD must be conferred by August 1, 2027, to be eligible for employment.
Preferred Education, Knowledge, Skills & Experience
- Postdoctoral experience
- Demonstrated interest in undergraduate and graduate research
- Potential to collaborate with existing faculty on research
- Teaching experience
- Potential to secure external funding
Required Certifications or Licensure
No Required Certifications or Licensure
Primary Function of Organizational Unit
The department offers undergraduate programs in mathematics, statistics, and data science, a certificate in actuarial science, and graduate programs in mathematics and data science, as well as a post-baccalaureate certificate in statistics. The department and university are committed to assisting new faculty to succeed through continual faculty development and mentorship. The department is especially interested in qualified candidates who can contribute, through their teaching and service, to the diversity and excellence of the academic community.
College/School Information
The College of Science and Engineering offers a variety of programs leading to Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees, as well as Doctor of Philosophy degrees in applied coastal and ocean sciences; pharmaceutical chemistry; integrative, comparative, and marine biology; and psychology degrees. The college also offers combined bachelor’s/master’s degree programs in information technology/computer science and information systems, computer science/computer science and information systems, and B.S. in mathematics/M.S. in mathematics. To implement its academic programs, the college provides instruction and research opportunities in the natural and behavioral sciences, information technology, data science, computer science, mathematics, pre-engineering, and engineering. The eight academic departments in the college provide courses of study in each of these areas, in addition to interdepartmental programs in information technology, cybersecurity, and digital arts. A 2+2 in engineering; and 3+2 programs in computer science and electrical or computer engineering; and physics and electrical engineering, are also offered in the college. Post-baccalaureate certificate programs in environmental studies, applied statistics, and geographic information science are also available.
CSE students work with distinguished faculty and scientists, use cutting-edge technology, and conduct impactful research. Faculty-directed research projects empower CSE students to apply what they learn inside the classroom and laboratory to real-world situations and prepares them for a variety of careers or advanced study.
University Information
The University of North Carolina Wilmington, the state’s coastal university, is dedicated to the integration of teaching, mentoring, research, and service. Widely acknowledged for its world-class faculty and staff and continuously recognized at a national level for scholarly excellence and affordability, UNCW offers a powerful academic experience that stimulates creative inquiry and critical thinking.
A public institution with nearly 18,000 students, UNCW offers a full range of baccalaureate- and graduate-level programs, as well as doctoral degrees in educational leadership, marine biology, nursing practice, and psychology; and many distance learning options, including clinical research, an accelerated RN-to-BSN program, an Executive M.B.A. program structured for working professionals, and the nation’s only bachelor’s degree program focused on coastal engineering.
The university’s efforts to advance research and scholarly activities have earned UNCW the elevated designation of “Doctoral Universities: High Research Activity” institution (R2 University) by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education.
UNCW has been part of the University of North Carolina System since 1969.
EEO Statement
UNCW does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of his or her race, sex (such as gender, gender identity, marital status, childbirth, and pregnancy), age, color, national origin (including ethnicity), religion, disability, sexual orientation, political affiliation, veteran status, military service member status, genetic information, or relationship to other university constituents – except where sex, age, or ability represent bona fide educational or occupational qualifications or where marital status is a statutorily established eligibility criterion for State funded employee benefit programs.
Eligibility for Employment
Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. UNC Wilmington participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.
Number of Openings: Single Incumbent
Special Notes to Applicants
Prior to the official appointment to the university, the candidate(s) selected for hire must be able to demonstrate eligibility to teach assigned courses by successfully meeting the credentialing requirements based on official transcripts and other documentation as required.
Applications will be accepted until 11:59PM EST December 15, 2026, which is the posting close date. Applicants are required to submit the following items in Adobe PDF or MS Word format online at https://jobs.uncw.edu/postings/41450:
- Cover letter
- Curriculum vitae
- A statement of teaching philosophy (2 page maximum)
- Research summary – A statement of research interests that highlights how the applicant could make use of departmental expertise or resources (2 page maximum).
- List of 3 Professional References. References will be requested during a later stage of the applicant screening process. If ABD at time of application, one reference must be from Dissertation Chair.
- If needed, applicants may upload additional materials under the ‘Other’ category.
Questions regarding the online application process, contact the CSE Employment Coordinator, Christy Langdon at langdonc@uncw.edu, while questions regarding the position can be directed to the Search Committee Co-Chairs, Dr. Xuemei Chen, Co-Chair at chenxuemei@uncw.edu, and Dr. Indranil Ghosh, Co-Chair at ghoshi@uncw.edu.
Position Type: Permanent
Job Posting Date: 11/06/2026
Job Close Date: 12/15/2026
Applicant Documents
Required Documents
- Cover Letter
- Curriculum Vita
- Teaching Philosophy
- Research Summary
- List of 3 Professional References
Optional Documents
- Other
See all 66+ OPT Data Science Director Jobs
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship in Data Science Director
Target companies with established data science organizations
Large technology, finance, and healthcare companies with dedicated data science teams are far more likely to support H-1B visa sponsorship for director-level hires than early-stage startups with no prior sponsorship track record.
Demonstrate P&L or organizational impact in your resume
Director-level candidates are evaluated on business outcomes, not just technical skills. Quantify team size managed, revenue influenced, and cost reductions driven by your data science programs to stand out from technical-only applicants.
Confirm your STEM OPT extension eligibility early
If your degree qualifies under the STEM OPT list, you can extend authorization by 24 months. Apply at least 90 days before standard OPT expiration to avoid gaps, giving employers more runway before H-1B sponsorship becomes necessary.
Address sponsorship directly in early conversations
At director level, hiring managers have budget authority and legal team access. Raising sponsorship in a first or second conversation is normal and professional, and avoids wasted time pursuing roles that will not support authorization.
Build a portfolio of cross-functional leadership examples
Employers sponsoring a director expect someone who can align data science strategy with business goals. Document specific cases where you partnered with product, engineering, or executive stakeholders to deliver measurable organizational outcomes.
Engage with data science executive communities to surface opportunities
Many director-level roles are filled through professional networks before they are publicly posted. Participating in data leadership forums, industry conferences, and peer groups increases visibility with hiring managers who influence sponsorship decisions.
Data Science Director OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Can F-1 OPT students work as a Data Science Director?
Yes. F-1 students authorized under standard OPT or STEM OPT extension can work as a Data Science Director, provided the role is directly related to your degree field. Most Data Science Director positions require a degree in computer science, statistics, mathematics, or a related quantitative discipline, which aligns with STEM OPT eligibility.
How do I find Data Science Director jobs that offer OPT sponsorship?
Migrate Mate lists Data Science Director roles from employers with a verified history of sponsoring international candidates. Filtering by sponsorship-friendly employers saves significant time compared to applying broadly and discovering sponsorship limitations late in the hiring process, which is a common frustration for OPT students at director level.
Does a Data Science Director role qualify for STEM OPT extension?
It can, but eligibility depends on your underlying degree, not the job title. If your degree appears on the STEM Designated Degree Program List and the Data Science Director role is directly related to that field, you qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension. Your employer must also participate in E-Verify to support the extension.
What happens to my OPT authorization if I change employers as a Data Science Director?
You can change employers on OPT, but you must report the change to your DSO within 10 days. Your new role must still be directly related to your degree field. If you are on STEM OPT extension, your new employer must also be enrolled in E-Verify, and you will need to update your training plan accordingly.
Is a Data Science Director role strong enough to support an H-1B petition after OPT?
Yes. Data Science Director roles typically require a specialized degree and involve duties that qualify as a specialty occupation under H-1B standards. The seniority and compensation of director-level positions generally make the sponsorship investment easier to justify for employers, compared to more junior technical roles where the business case is less clear.