Statistical Data Analyst

Organizational Context

The Department of Safeguards functions as the IAEA's global nuclear inspectorate, dedicated to preventing the proliferation of nuclear weapons. Its primary mission involves developing and implementing safeguards to ensure that declared nuclear material remains for peaceful purposes and to detect any undeclared nuclear material or activities within States.

Job Purpose

The Safeguards Statistical Data Analyst plays a crucial role within the Department of Safeguards, reporting to the Team Leader. This position is integral to a team responsible for generating high-quality findings that inform departmental evaluations. The analyst's core function involves analyzing data from laboratory tests on environmental samples and measurements obtained during in-field verification activities. By comparing this data with State declarations, the analyst identifies discrepancies and areas requiring further investigation. This process necessitates sophisticated data analysis, the development and application of statistical models and methodologies, and the preparation of comprehensive reports and recommendations.

Responsibilities

The role involves processing and evaluating information derived from State declarations and verification activities, ensuring the accuracy and completeness of declarations and supporting safeguards implementation. This includes analyzing data from various sources, such as nuclear material accounting reports and inspector-collected data from nuclear facilities. Data quality verification for accuracy, consistency, and completeness is essential, with follow-up actions to resolve any issues. The analyst will utilize modeling and statistical tools to evaluate and compare data, identifying and interpreting trends and patterns in complex datasets. Key contributions include delivering actionable findings and recommendations for the annual reporting process, collaborating with stakeholders to enhance data flows and quality, and optimizing in-field data collection. The position also contributes to the development and improvement of statistical methods and quantitative models, including software prototyping and testing, and participates in the management of statistical databases. There is a possibility of participating in safeguards inspections and providing support for in-field verification activities, as well as delivering training and presentations.

Work Experience

A minimum of five years of relevant working experience is required, specifically as a statistical data analyst. Experience in measurement error estimation, propagation, and statistical sampling methodologies is also needed. Experience with software development or maintenance for mathematical/statistical, scientific, or data visualization applications is considered an asset.

Skills

Advanced statistical methods, data analysis using high-level programming languages (e.g., Python or R), mathematical analysis for measurement data, and knowledge of nuclear fuel cycle facilities and nuclear material accounting principles are essential. Strong communication, analytical thinking, commitment to continuous process improvement, and sound judgment/decision-making are also required.

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