Principal Scientist Newcastle United
Permanent
Competitive Salary
Come and be a part of a long and proud history where we strive to be the best in everything we do, on and off the pitch. Bringing the people and communities together, join the Newcastle United Family, as we embark on the next steps of our exciting journey.
Are you passionate about football and machine learning? At Newcastle United, we’re looking for a curious and driven scientist to help us push the boundaries of football intelligence. You’ll be working with cutting-edge data, from player tracking and skeletal movement to event and positional feeds, to uncover insights that shape recruitment, coaching, and strategy.
You’ll collaborate closely with our data team and senior technical staff to turn complex datasets into clear, actionable insights that align with our football philosophy.
You’ll be comfortable working with large-scale time series data, building bespoke metrics, and integrating diverse models to create rich, layered analysis. If you’ve worked with football data providers like StatsBomb or Second Spectrum, even better.
You’ll need a Master’s or PhD in a quantitative field, strong Python skills, and extensive experience applying core machine learning libraries such as Scikit-learn, XGBoost, or LightGBM to structured data problems. Experience with version control (Git) and applying software engineering best practices is essential. Familiarity with MLOps principles and integrating cloud-based data platforms like Snowflake and Azure is a plus.
We’re building something special here — and we want someone who’s excited to be part of and ready to help us stay at the forefront of football analytics.
This role is based in Newcastle upon Tyne, with an expectation of working 3 days per week from the office. Please note, if you are not located in the Northeast and unable to relocate, we regret that we will not be able to progress your application.
We’ve got a range of great benefits and rewards, from flexible ways of working, participation in our non-contractual employee bonus scheme, NUFC life assurance, free parking, discount at Shearers Bar and the Club Shop, Helping Hand – where you can access free GP appointments, Wellbeing Resources, Legal and Financial Support, pension contribution, free lunch and the best part, free tea and coffee. In addition, we run a salary sacrifice scheme which includes, tech, car, cycle to work and many more.
We’re committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and believe in equal opportunities for all. We recognise that the diversity of our people is one of our greatest strengths. We work together to reflect the communities we serve and to maintain an inclusive environment in which everyone can be their authentic self and is enabled to achieve their full potential.
Please apply as soon as possible as this vacancy may close early should we receive a high volume of suitable candidates.