Data Scientist Cover Letter

A step-by-step guide to writing a data scientist cover letter with a downloadable template, sample, and frequently asked questions.

By Garth Coulson, Nov 10, 2023

Garth is an Editor and Copywriter specializing in SEO and technical writing. He has a background in film with experience in the travel, tech, and fitness industries.

Data scientist working at a desk with a laptop.

A data scientist cover letter highlights your level of education, experience collecting and interpreting large volumes of data, and your ability to create actionable goals from data. It brings the reader's attention to the most compelling parts of your resume and should match your skills with those mentioned in the job posting.

Data Scientist Cover Letter Template:

Download this template in Microsoft Word format and follow the prompts to make an engaging data scientist cover letter.

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Data Scientist Cover Letter Sample:

[Full Name]

[Physical Address]

[Telephone Number]

[Email Address]

[Date]

Application for the position of Data Scientist.

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I am writing to apply for the data scientist position at [the company’s name]. My excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, advanced knowledge of applied mathematics and statistics, and level of education make me perfect for this position.

I have a [qualification] from [institution], [location of institution], and [number of years] years of experience collecting, cleaning, and interpreting data. As per the requirements for the position at [company], you will notice in my resume that I [mention skills, competencies, or experiences that answer directly to the requirements listed in the data scientist job posting].

In my previous role at [company], I [discuss your core responsibilities]. In [year], I lead a team [talk about a major accomplishment]. During my time at the company, I have learned [what have you learned and how have your skills improved].

I am thrilled to be applying to [company] because I admire your [name two or three things you know about the company in general that you like]. As the data scientist, my unwavering curiosity, honed creativity, and proficiency with writing algorithms will be of the greatest benefit to [company].

Please find my resume attached. Feel free to contact me via email or phone call if I can be of any further service.

Thank you for taking the time to consider my application. I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

How to Write a Data Scientist Cover Letter:

$0.00 USD

2 Hours

A step-by-step guide on how to write the perfect data scientist cover letter for your next job application.

Address your letter.

1.1

Address the hiring manager directly.

Address your data scientist cover letter to the hiring manager or the person who posted the job ad. This will indicate that you have a personal interest in the company.

1.2

Avoid using generic greetings.

Using "To whom it may concern" is no longer considered professional. It is better to find out the name of the addressee and use an appropriate title before their name, such as Mr., Ms., or Dr. For example, "Dr. Dodson" or "Ms. Ellis."

Start with a brief introduction.

2.1

Make your intentions clear.

In no more than three sentences, tell the person why you are writing and what position you are applying for. Use one sentence to state clearly that you feel your knowledge and experience make you the best person for the position

2.2

Highlight your strengths.

Highlight your strongest attributes here. You might want to mention your excellent analytical skills or your advanced knowledge of statistics.

Showcase your qualifications and experience

3.1

List your qualifications first.

Write a few sentences on your qualifications, only mentioning those that pertain to the job you are applying for.

3.2

Discuss your employment history.

Mention how many years you've worked as a data scientist. Then, bring attention to your resume and discuss those skills you have that match the requirements listed in the job ad. These may include advanced machine learning and programming, experience using data visualization tools and mathematical software, and your understanding of linear algebra.

Discuss your most recent role and responsibilities.

4.1

Expand on your current or previous role.

In a few sentences, unpack your current or previous role and how it has prepared you for the job you are applying for.

4.2

Highlight your responsibilties.

When you discuss your current or previous role, highlight your key responsibilities and requirements that correspond to the job you are applying for. These may include automating processes, meeting with teams, developing mathematical models, researching solutions, and communicating complex ideas.

Celebrate the organization

5.1

Tell them why you want to work there.

Mention two or three things you know about the company you're applying to and why being a data scientist would excite you.

5.2

State how you will add value.

State how you will add value to the organization by mentioning, for example, your excellent communication skills, advanced understanding of data querying languages, etc.

End with a call to action.

6.1

Provide an opportunity for feedback.

Say that you've attached your resume for their consideration and invite the reader to contact you via email or phone call.

6.2

Close your letter.

Thank the reader for their time. Add "sincerely" or an acceptable synonym and sign off with your full name.

FAQs:

What is the purpose of a data scientist cover letter?

The purpose of a data scientist cover letter is to introduce yourself, explain why you've sent a resume, and highlight the most compelling parts of your resume.

How do you write a data scientist cover letter?

Find out the name of the addressee and address the letter accordingly.
Write an introduction of a few sentences on why you are writing and why you are the best choice for the position.
Give a paragraph to your qualifications and experience.
In another paragraph, write about your current or previous role as a data scientist.
Use the next few sentences, in a new paragraph, to say why you want to work at the company.
Then, draw attention to your resume and ask the person to read it.

How long should a data scientist cover letter be?

A data scientist cover letter should be no longer than one page.

How do you start a data scientist cover letter?

Start your data scientist cover letter by telling the person why you are writing and what position you are applying for. Then, in one sentence, explain why you are the best fit for the position by highlighting your strongest attributes.

Who do you address a data scientist cover letter to?

It is best to find out the name of the hiring manager or the name of whoever posted the data scientist job posting and address your letter to them using an appropriate title such as "Ms." or "Dr."

What skills should I mention in my data scientist cover letter?

It is very important that you read the skills requirements listed in the job ad for a data scientist position. You'll want to match your skills with those mentioned in the ad. Some of these may include 5+ years of industry experience, advanced coursework in machine learning, multi-variable calculus, experience using data visualization tools, etc.