I would take the approach that there is a spectrum of knowledge and hire the quote "T" shaped individual. Strong in at least one area, but broad enough to cont

I would take the approach that there is a spectrum of knowledge and hire the quote "T" shaped individual. Strong in at least one area, but broad enough to contribute anywhere. People change faster than orgs/titles, it would be better to keep this part flexible to maximize their growth. This can be further extended to the whole engineering culture. It's not uncommon that a frontend engineer shares a title with a backend software engineer - these skills are different enough that the individuals are no longer fungible for the most part. Why not give DS's engineering titles and treat it as a management objective to ensure you have the right people on any given project? If scientist is the preferred title, why not give anyone the science title?