Data Scientist, Core Data - PhD (2026) · Figma

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 12:11:09 GMT
Engineering

Figma · New York, NY • United States; San Francisco, CA • New York, NY · $170,000-$178,000 USD · remote

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.

This role is for someone who thrives at the intersection of rigorous research and real-world impact. You'll bring PhD-level depth to problems that matter. This includes advancing our experimentation platform and developing machine learning-based analytical systems. You will also help craft how we measure AI-powered features through causal inference and statistical modeling.

Responsibilities:

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

Requirements:

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

Preferred Qualifications:

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