Data Scientist, Core Data - PhD (2026)

The shape of it

In the posting’s own words

We're looking for a research-minded Data Scientist to join the Core Data team. This team is a group of analytics professionals and Engineers building the foundational platforms for data science at Figma. We build the experimentation, analytics, and AI tooling that every product team relies on to make confident, data-driven decisions, partnering closely with Data Infra, ML, and Applied Science to evolve our platforms and embed AI into the daily workflows of data scientists across the company.

What it asks for · 4

• PhD in a quantitative field (Statistics, Computer Science, Economics, Operations Research, Physics, or related) with a strong foundation in statistical methods, experimentation, and/or machine learning
• Fluency in SQL and proficiency in a scripting language like Python or R, with exposure to distributed data systems (e.g. Snowflake) through research or internships
• Ability to communicate technical concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences
• A curious and rigorous mindset, with a passion for translating research into real-world impact

Also a plus

• Publications or research experience in experimentation or applied ML; industry internship experience applying data science to product or business problems
• An AI-native mindset, with exposure to or interest in LLM analytics, AI product measurement, or evaluating the impact of AI-powered features
• A self-starter attitude and the ability to thrive in ambiguous and fast-paced environments

What the job covers

• Partner across teams to define and track important metrics, develop experiments, and uncover insights that inform strategic decisions
• Accelerate Figma's experimentation platform and methodology, including A/B testing frameworks and causal inference techniques
• Construct models and analytical frameworks based on machine learning to support product, platform, and business initiatives
• Create tools, datasets, and systems that enable others to work with data more efficiently and rigorously
• Complete and own complex data projects end-to-end, from problem prioritisation to solution delivery
• Drive data quality, accessibility, and the democratization of data across the organization

Degree language

• PhD in a quantitative field (Statistics, Computer Science, Economics, Operations Research, Physics, or related) with a strong foundation in statistical methods, experimentation, and/or machine learning

Tools and skills named

Words the posting leans on

• data11×
• platform6×
• experimentation5×
• product5×
• research5×
• science4×
• analytics3×
• design3×
• problems3×
• systems3×
• ai-powered features2×
• analytical2×
• applied2×
• bring2×
• business2×
• causal inference2×

Counted from the posting after the mission statement and the legal notices are set aside. The ones near the top are the ones a screener is looking for.

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