Job description

This is a remote position.

At sistemaFutura, we combine simulation modeling and behavioral science to study and improve complex problems. We work on a range of issues, from gender-based violence to climate adaptation and financial inequality. Across each model, the concept is the same: we build empirically calibrated, theoretically guided models of a complex problem, which we then analyze for opportunities for meaningful improvement. We then work hand in hand with a range of stakeholders, especially in international development, to act on those opportunities: deploying them in real life, and rigorously measuring their impact.

We are a new company, but we already have need for more people. In particular, we have two projects that need an experienced computational social scientist in the near term. We'll need extra help on these projects for at least four months; we anticipate additional need after that, but can't guarantee it yet.

Responsibilities

Help design, build and analyze two computational models of human behavior and behavioral interventions in Python. Currently, that includes a model of behavioral health interventions, and one on financial behavior.
Research and apply relevant literature in the social sciences.
Help train junior computational social scientists
Collaborate with subject-matter experts in each field to gain their feedback on the model.
Develop live GIS visualizations of system interactions.
Compile a computational laboratory of optimization and data analysis tools.
Analyze the models for opportunities for behavioral science interventions.
Develop and run unit and performance tests to ensure scalability and reliability.
Develop documentation, diagrams, charts, code comments, and clean code to explain and show solutions.

Requirements

We strongly believe that credentials are useful but less important than what a person can actually do. In our job application, we'll describe a sample model, then ask you to start building it (without the help of AI tools, sorry).

That said, it can be useful to provide some benchmarks for candidates, so they'll know if they are likely to succeed. It would be helpful if you have:

Four years of software development experience, including at least two years of experience in Python, since that is our preferred language.
Significant experience building and analyzing complex simulation models (not NetLogo toy models...). Agent-based models in particular are a plus.
A degree in computer science or related disciplines (physics, operations research, and some economics cover this), or in social science program (e.g., political science) with a strong computational element.
Expertise in scientific visualization.
Experience in computational optimization and with digital twins are useful, but uncommon.
A strong interest in behavioral economics, behavioral science, and/or psychology.
Ability to adopt new technologies effectively and quickly.

But again, if you can get it done, none of those requirements matter.

What to expect:

We've worked in small and large firms, start-ups and established companies, and we are deliberate about the kind of work culture we want to build. Specifically, that culture is:

Motivated by our work and impact:At sistemaFutura, we care about impact and innovation, not egos or hierarchy. Titles and degrees don't hold much currency for us.
Safe space:Among our core values, we cherish mutual respect, kindness, and authenticity. Showing up as we are and being happy to be at work is our priority.
Approachable, friendly culture:It's ok to have friends at work; in fact, it's great. We bring onboard colleagues and friends whom we admire, and with whom we've enjoyed working over the years.
Start-up environment:We are newly-established and work remotely, so it feels a lot like a start-up environment where everyone is contributing and building the company as we go.
High quality standards:Meeting our ambitious goals means that we set high standards for ourselves: in terms of quality of deliverables, meeting our time commitments, and honoring our colleagues.