Research Data Scientist Jobs for OPT Students
Research Data Scientist roles qualify for OPT work authorization when your degree is in statistics, computer science, applied mathematics, or a related STEM field. Most positions also qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension, giving you up to three years of authorized work experience while you pursue long-term sponsorship.
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Get Access To All JobsJoin the Cleveland Clinic team, where you will work alongside passionate caregivers and provide patient-first healthcare. Cleveland Clinic is recognized as one of the top hospitals in the nation. At Cleveland Clinic, you will receive endless support and appreciation and build a rewarding career with one of the most respected healthcare organizations in the world.
As a Research Data Scientist on our team, you will utilize statistical and machine learning techniques, along with high-performance data architectures and technologies, to build algorithms and perform advanced data analytics. In this role, you will apply programming skills in languages such as SAS, SQL, SPSS, R, Python, or similar tools to work effectively with relational databases and support data-driven decision-making across the organization.
A caregiver in this role works remotely from 9: 00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Preference will be given to candidates who live in OH, FL, or NV.
A caregiver who excels in this role will:
- Utilize statistical and machine learning techniques, high performance data architectures and technologies to build algorithms and perform data analytics.
- Utilize methods in the areas of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), Deep Learning (DL), Natural Language Processing (NLP) to design and implement data solutions.
- Document best practices and solution frameworks.
- Collaborate with team members to develop analytical techniques.
- Utilize programming skills in SAS, SQL, SPSS and R or Python to create and design new reports independently.
- Conduct in-depth data analysis to develop and test hypotheses.
- Provide guidance to other team members on building basic models.
- Communicate and present analytical findings to other investigators.
- Identify innovative technologies available for analytical areas.
- Interpret research protocols and run statistical analysis.
- Develop and refine machine learning models to support research and data-driven insights.
- Generate charts, graphs and other visualizations to clearly communicate analytical findings.
- Assist with scientific publications by preparing data outputs, figures, and supporting documentation.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s degree in statistics, mathematics, computer science, engineering or a related field and four years of experience conducting data analytics, math or statistical modeling or machine learning
- OR Master’s degree in a similar field and two years of required experience
- OR PhD in a similar field
- Highly proficient programming skills in languages such as SAS, SQL, SPSS, R, Python, or similar
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Master’s degree in a similar field
- PhD in a similar field
- Advanced SQL query writing skills
- Clinical knowledge
- Experience in ML (Machine Learning) – AI (Artificial Intelligence)
- EHR clinical data experience
- Statistical modeling experience
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to perform work in a stationary position for extended periods
- Ability to operate a computer and other office equipment
- Ability to communicate and exchange accurate information
- In some locations, ability to move up to 15 pounds
Personal Protective Equipment:
- Follows standard precautions using personal protective equipment.
Pay Range
Minimum Annual Salary: $76,540.00
Maximum Annual Salary: $116,747.50
The pay range displayed on this job posting reflects the anticipated range for new hires. A successful candidate’s actual compensation will be determined after taking factors into consideration such as the candidate’s work history, experience, skill set and education. The pay range displayed does not include any applicable pay practices (e.g., shift differentials, overtime, etc.). The pay range does not include the value of Cleveland Clinic’s benefits package (e.g., healthcare, dental and vision benefits, retirement savings account contributions, etc.).
Join the Cleveland Clinic team, where you will work alongside passionate caregivers and provide patient-first healthcare. Cleveland Clinic is recognized as one of the top hospitals in the nation. At Cleveland Clinic, you will receive endless support and appreciation and build a rewarding career with one of the most respected healthcare organizations in the world.
As a Research Data Scientist on our team, you will utilize statistical and machine learning techniques, along with high-performance data architectures and technologies, to build algorithms and perform advanced data analytics. In this role, you will apply programming skills in languages such as SAS, SQL, SPSS, R, Python, or similar tools to work effectively with relational databases and support data-driven decision-making across the organization.
A caregiver in this role works remotely from 9: 00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Preference will be given to candidates who live in OH, FL, or NV.
A caregiver who excels in this role will:
- Utilize statistical and machine learning techniques, high performance data architectures and technologies to build algorithms and perform data analytics.
- Utilize methods in the areas of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), Deep Learning (DL), Natural Language Processing (NLP) to design and implement data solutions.
- Document best practices and solution frameworks.
- Collaborate with team members to develop analytical techniques.
- Utilize programming skills in SAS, SQL, SPSS and R or Python to create and design new reports independently.
- Conduct in-depth data analysis to develop and test hypotheses.
- Provide guidance to other team members on building basic models.
- Communicate and present analytical findings to other investigators.
- Identify innovative technologies available for analytical areas.
- Interpret research protocols and run statistical analysis.
- Develop and refine machine learning models to support research and data-driven insights.
- Generate charts, graphs and other visualizations to clearly communicate analytical findings.
- Assist with scientific publications by preparing data outputs, figures, and supporting documentation.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s degree in statistics, mathematics, computer science, engineering or a related field and four years of experience conducting data analytics, math or statistical modeling or machine learning
- OR Master’s degree in a similar field and two years of required experience
- OR PhD in a similar field
- Highly proficient programming skills in languages such as SAS, SQL, SPSS, R, Python, or similar
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Master’s degree in a similar field
- PhD in a similar field
- Advanced SQL query writing skills
- Clinical knowledge
- Experience in ML (Machine Learning) – AI (Artificial Intelligence)
- EHR clinical data experience
- Statistical modeling experience
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to perform work in a stationary position for extended periods
- Ability to operate a computer and other office equipment
- Ability to communicate and exchange accurate information
- In some locations, ability to move up to 15 pounds
Personal Protective Equipment:
- Follows standard precautions using personal protective equipment.
Pay Range
Minimum Annual Salary: $76,540.00
Maximum Annual Salary: $116,747.50
The pay range displayed on this job posting reflects the anticipated range for new hires. A successful candidate’s actual compensation will be determined after taking factors into consideration such as the candidate’s work history, experience, skill set and education. The pay range displayed does not include any applicable pay practices (e.g., shift differentials, overtime, etc.). The pay range does not include the value of Cleveland Clinic’s benefits package (e.g., healthcare, dental and vision benefits, retirement savings account contributions, etc.).
How to Get Visa Sponsorship as a Research Data Scientist
Target STEM OPT-eligible employers first
Focus your search on companies enrolled in E-Verify, which is required for the 24-month STEM OPT extension. Research-heavy employers in tech, pharma, and finance are more likely to be enrolled and familiar with the extension process.
Align your degree field with the job description
STEM OPT eligibility depends on your role being directly related to your degree. Request a job description that explicitly references statistical modeling, machine learning, or data analysis to strengthen your I-983 training plan approval.
Prepare a training plan that maps to actual research work
The I-983 requires your employer to outline specific learning objectives. Work with your hiring manager to document concrete goals around model development, experimental design, or data pipeline work before your DSO submits the form.
Prioritize employers with existing H-1B sponsorship track records
Research labs and data science teams at large technology and life sciences companies have established immigration processes. Employers who have sponsored H-1B visas before are significantly more likely to continue sponsoring after your OPT period ends.
Research Data Scientist jobs are hiring across the US. Find yours.
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Get Access To All JobsFrequently Asked Questions
Does a Research Data Scientist role qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
Yes, in most cases. Research Data Scientist positions typically fall under CIP codes in computer science, statistics, or applied mathematics, all of which are on the STEM Designated Degree Program List. Your role must be directly related to your degree field, and your employer must be enrolled in E-Verify. Confirm your specific CIP code with your DSO before applying.
How do I find Research Data Scientist jobs where the employer is open to OPT sponsorship?
Migrate Mate filters Research Data Scientist listings by OPT and visa sponsorship eligibility, so you're not wasting applications on employers who won't hire international students. Large research-focused employers in technology, healthcare, and financial services are the most common sponsors. Searching by industry on Migrate Mate narrows your list to roles where your work authorization is already expected.
Can I work as a Research Data Scientist at a university or nonprofit research lab on OPT?
Yes. Universities, federally funded research centers, and nonprofit laboratories regularly hire OPT students for research data science roles. These positions often align closely with your academic degree, which simplifies the I-983 training plan. However, confirm that the institution is enrolled in E-Verify before accepting an offer if you plan to apply for the STEM OPT extension.
What happens to my OPT if my research contract ends before my authorization period expires?
You enter a 60-day grace period when your employment ends. During that window you can search for a new Research Data Scientist position, change employers, or take steps to change your immigration status. You cannot work during the grace period. Filing a STEM OPT extension before your initial OPT expires resets this clock, so timing your job search matters significantly.
Does presenting research at conferences or publishing papers count as unauthorized employment on OPT?
Unpaid academic activities like presenting at conferences, co-authoring papers, or peer reviewing are generally not considered employment under OPT regulations and do not require separate authorization. However, if you receive honoraria or other compensation, consult your DSO before accepting payment. Keeping these activities clearly separate from your primary OPT employment avoids complications with your work authorization status.
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