Lead Psychometric Data Scientist

Lead Psychometric Data Scientist   
 

Reference number: JR245370

Location: Remote

Working pattern: Part Time

Contract Type: Permanent

Number of roles: 1

Salary: Competitive

We are looking for a Lead Psychometric Data Scientist to join our team. 

We are seeking an experienced psychometrician to join our online English language testing team. You will combine strong psychometric and data science expertise with technical programming skills to maintain and enhance our adaptive testing platform. This role bridges the gap between psychometric analysis and technical implementation, working closely with IT teams to drive continuous improvement of our assessment system. You will also lead AI innovation initiatives to enhance test delivery, scoring, and adaptation mechanisms through the application of machine learning and artificial intelligence technologies.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who may be currently working as a Data Scientist, who is looking to expand their skills and build their career with an industry leader. 

A detailed job description can be viewed here.  If the link does not work for you, please copy and paste the following URL into your web browser: https://tinyurl.com/5n6u3u4j.

What you’ll bring to the role 
 

• Master’s or Ph.D. Degree preferred (or working towards the completion of) in one of the following disciplines: applied mathematics, psychometrics, data science, educational measurement, statistics, or a closely related subject .

• Significant experience and high level technical competence in analysing and quality monitoring high-stakes CAT assessments (English language assessments preferred).

• Practical knowledge of Item Response Theory (IRT), including use of IRT in test construction, score scaling, score equating, adaptive testing, DIF).

• Technical knowledge of parameter estimation methods used in IRT (ML, EM-algorithm, MCMC).

• Ability to work with adaptive algorithms and automated response scoring in educational tests.

• Proficient in programming languages: Python, SQL.

• Excellent working knowledge of psychometric packages and software.

• Knowledge and experience in applying advanced statistical models and Machine Learning tools and methods for inference and prediction.

• Experience in using gen-AI in educational research.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills and strong report writing skills.

• Ability to work collaboratively across a range of teams.

  
  

What we do 
 

Kaplan International Pathways, a division of Kaplan Inc., offers international students a wide range of flexible study options - from University preparation programmes in the UK, Australia, USA and Japan through to full degree programmes in Singapore, Hong Kong and Australia. Through our academic partnerships with leading universities, our expertise in student recruitment, our exceptional teaching and a real focus on customer service and pastoral care, each year we are proud to welcome thousands of students from more than 100 countries through the doors of our colleges.  

In the UK, we operate 9 campus-based colleges in partnership with Bournemouth University, University of Glasgow, University of Liverpool, Nottingham Trent University, University of Nottingham, University of Brighton, University of Essex, University of York and University of West of England, Bristol and an off-campus college in London offering pathways to 7 leading well-ranked UK universities. 

What we offer 

As well as a competitive salary, hybrid/home working where possible, and paths for career progression, we offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes: 

• 28 days annual leave* 

• Big discounts on Kaplan courses for you and your family

• 24/7 confidential helpline providing counselling and other support services 

• Company pension contributions 

• Maternity, Adoption, Shared Parental and Paternity/Partner pay which is well above statutory levels 

• Medicash Health Cash Plan 

*Please note that the annual leave entitlement will be calculated on a pro rata basis if the role is part time. 

How to apply 

To apply for this role please submit a CV along with a Cover Letter detailing how you meet the requirements of the role no later than 11pm on 15th March 2025. Note, we recommend that you apply at the earliest as we reserve the right to close the role before the closing date if we have gathered a suitable shortlist.  

Additional Application Information 

As part of our commitment to safeguarding, depending on the nature of the role, successful candidates may be subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check.  

Application Support  

If you require technical support, you can contact kaplanstaff.recruitment@kaplan.com.

For an informal conversation about the role, please contact Dr Margaret Bryndal, Associate Director of Assessment Research and Development, at margaret.bryndal@kaplan.com .

Disability Confident Scheme and Reasonable Adjustments 

At Kaplan International Pathways, we're dedicated to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive global workforce. As equal opportunity employers, we ensure fair treatment for all employees, safeguarding them from discrimination based on protected characteristics as defined in the Equality Act 2010, and beyond. 

We actively welcome individuals from varied backgrounds to apply for roles within our organisation, appreciating the distinct viewpoints and contributions they offer. We especially encourage applications from underrepresented groups, including diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds, LGBTQ+ individuals, women, people with visible and hidden disabilities, and individuals of any age or family status. 

Following the submission of an application, applicants will receive details of how to request their application be considered under our Disability Confident Scheme.  Applicants will also be given information on how to request reasonable adjustments if selected for interview. 

Our Employee Resource Groups 

We proudly endorse and provide a platform for our Employee Resource Groups, such as Kaplan Pride, Higher Ground Race, Ethnicity and Cultural Heritage Group, Kaplan Ability, Kaplan Women and Parents and Carers. These groups serve as vital forums for support, connection, and advocacy within our company.