Junior Data Scientist Internship at Discovery Health

Discovery Health is seeking a motivated and analytical Junior Data Scientist to join their dynamic Data Science Lab (DS Lab). This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to impactful projects that enhance and protect people's lives through innovative data-driven solutions. The DS Lab is at the forefront of using advanced analytics, machine learning, and artificial intelligence to improve member outcomes, operational efficiency, and personalised products and services within the financial services and healthcare sectors. As a Junior Data Scientist, you will work under the guidance of experienced professionals, gaining exposure to cutting-edge techniques in statistical modelling, causal inference, experimentation, and AI-enabled decision systems. This position is ideal for an early-career data scientist eager to build a strong foundation and make a tangible difference in a purpose-driven organisation.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the development and evaluation of predictive, causal, and personalised models to enhance member and business outcomes.

• Assist in the design and interpretation of experiments and measurement frameworks to understand intervention effectiveness.

• Apply machine learning, optimisation, and AI techniques to address complex challenges in healthcare and operations.

• Contribute to the building of AI-enabled decision systems, adhering to principles of measurement, governance, and continuous improvement.

• Perform data analysis, feature engineering, and model development, ensuring reproducible analytical pipelines and thorough documentation.

• Support test-and-learn initiatives from conceptualisation through to outcome interpretation.

• Identify opportunities for personalisation by leveraging diverse data sources including behavioural, clinical, digital, and operational data.

• Develop models to optimise targeting, prioritisation, and the effectiveness of interventions.

• Assist in the development, evaluation, and deployment of AI-enabled workflows, including those involving language models and structured data.

• Assess the reliability, safety, and business value of AI solutions, documenting assumptions, limitations, and potential risks.

• Deliver well-defined analytical, modelling, and AI-related workstreams.

• Collaborate with stakeholders to translate business needs into effective analytical approaches.

• Clearly communicate findings, recommendations, and any identified limitations to relevant parties.

Why Join the Company

Discovery Health offers a stimulating and supportive environment where you can grow your career. You will be part of a world-class Data Science Lab that collaborates with leading organisations and institutions, contributing to groundbreaking work in areas like the Vitality AI platform. The company is committed to enhancing and protecting lives, providing a strong sense of purpose. You will benefit from mentorship by experienced data scientists, exposure to cutting-edge technologies, and the opportunity to work on projects with real-world impact. Discovery fosters a culture of continuous learning, innovation, and collaboration, with a focus on employee development and well-being.

How to Apply

Please apply using the Quick Apply button on this page.

• Proficiency in Python for data analysis, statistical modelling, and machine learning.

• Experience working with SQL, relational databases, and structured data.

• Strong foundations in statistics, machine learning, experimental design, and model evaluation.

• Ability to write clear, reproducible, and well-documented analytical code.

• Bachelor's or Honours degree in quantitative disciplines such as Computer Science, Data Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Actuarial Science, Operations Research, Industrial Engineering, or Applied Mathematics.

• Demonstrated aptitude for quantitative problem-solving through academic achievement, research, projects, competitions, internships, or work experience.

• Curious and motivated to use data, statistics, and AI to solve meaningful healthcare and business challenges.

• Analytical, hypothesis-driven, and evidence-based approach.

• Strong problem-solving and communication skills.

• Comfortable with ambiguity, continuous learning, and iterative improvement.

• Able to balance multiple priorities while maintaining a broader business perspective.

• Collaborative, accountable, and proactive.

• Aligned with Discovery's values and core purpose.