At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead AI research to transform multimodal data into impactful drug development decisions.
- Company: Join AstraZeneca, a leader in combining AI with scientific innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid work model, continuous learning, and access to diverse datasets.
- Other info: Collaborative culture that values diversity and ethical standards.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in patient outcomes through groundbreaking AI research.
- Qualifications: PhD or MSc with relevant experience in machine learning and AI applications.
The predicted salary is between 100000 - 150000 £ per year.
This position focuses on guiding AI research that converts complex, multimodal data into decisions to accelerate drug development and improve patient outcomes. It is a fantastic opportunity to thrive in an environment where bold ideas evolve into deployed models and peer-reviewed science, working alongside leading scientists, engineers, and product leaders!
As the Director of AI Research, the objective is to lead a high-calibre, interdisciplinary team advancing machine learning across multiple therapeutic areas. The role entails setting the research agenda, inventing new methods, and transforming prototypes into robust, governed solutions that support imaging, diagnostics, and clinical validation pipelines. This offers a unique chance to build strategy from the ground up while staying hands-on with cutting-edge methodologies.
Accountabilities- Research Strategy: Lead the roadmap for priority problem spaces, supporting teams to develop high-value AI capabilities using modern engineering standards.
- Multimodal ML Innovation: Invent and apply methods in deep, representation, reinforcement, and active learning, tailoring metrics to domain-specific challenges.
- Translational Pipeline Impact: Convert scientific advances into production-grade models that improve decision quality and automate key discovery steps.
- ML Ops and Governance: Establish robust practices for model tracking, governance, and lifecycle management, ensuring responsible AI use.
- Cross-Functional Partnership: Advise and co-create with partners across therapeutic areas, translating business needs into effective ML solutions.
- Scientific Contribution: Mentor researchers, publish in top-tier venues, and represent AstraZeneca at leading conferences!
- Stakeholder Alignment: Maintain clear, multidirectional communication across the organisation regarding goals, risks, and results.
- Academic Background: PhD in computer science, statistics, applied mathematics, or a related area (or an MSc with 5 years of relevant background).
- Industry Experience: Minimum of 2 years developing machine learning models in an industry setting.
- Machine Perception: Expertise with methods in at least one relevant modality, alongside explainability techniques.
- Domain Application: Experience applying AI to fields such as pathology imaging, radiological analysis, diagnostics, prognostics, or clinical Quality Control.
- ML Ops Knowledge: Practical experience with model tracking, governance, and managing multiple models in diverse production contexts.
- Technical Leadership: Proven ability to lead teams through complex scientific and research efforts.
- Publication Record: A strong research programme demonstrated by prestigious publications (e.g., Nature Machine Intelligence, NeurIPS, ICML) with at least one as lead author.
- Domain Expertise: Deep understanding of the drug development or clinical trial processes.
- Collaborative Delivery: A track record of successfully working with AI engineering teams to deploy complex predictive algorithms.
Collaborative Culture: Bringing unexpected teams together sparks bold thinking. To facilitate this, we operate on a hybrid model, working an average of three days per week from the office while respecting individual flexibility.
Why AstraZenecaAstraZeneca pairs cutting-edge AI with profound scientific depth to deliver life-changing insights. The culture emphasises continuous learning, ethical standards, and doing things the right way. Access to rich, diverse datasets provides the foundation to build advanced enterprise analytics.
Equal Opportunity and AccommodationsAstraZeneca is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment.
Call to ActionIf the prospect of leading breakthrough AI research and converting it into tangible patient outcomes excites you, apply today to drive what comes next!
Director of AI Research: Multimodal ML for Drug Discovery in Cambridge employer: AstraZeneca
AstraZeneca is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative culture where innovative ideas flourish, particularly in the field of AI research for drug discovery. With a strong emphasis on continuous learning and ethical practices, employees benefit from access to diverse datasets and opportunities for professional growth, all while working in a flexible hybrid environment that values individual contributions. Join us to lead groundbreaking research that directly impacts patient outcomes and be part of a team that celebrates diversity and inclusivity.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of AI Research: Multimodal ML for Drug Discovery in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those already at AstraZeneca. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info about the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into multimodal ML and its applications in drug discovery. Show us you know your stuff and can lead innovative projects!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just talk about your past work; bring it to life! Use examples of how your research has made an impact, especially in clinical settings. We love seeing real-world results.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at AstraZeneca.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of AI Research: Multimodal ML for Drug Discovery in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Expertise:Make sure to highlight your academic background and industry experience in your application. We want to see how your skills align with the role, especially in machine learning and AI research.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! Tailor your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific requirements of the Director of AI Research role. Mention your experience with multimodal ML and how it can impact drug discovery.
Be Bold and Creative:This is a chance to showcase your innovative thinking! Share any bold ideas or projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to lead and invent new methods in AI research.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at AstraZeneca
✨Know Your Multimodal ML Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in multimodal machine learning techniques. Brush up on your knowledge of deep learning, reinforcement learning, and how these can be applied to drug discovery. Be ready to discuss specific examples where you've successfully implemented these methods.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Director, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead interdisciplinary teams. Prepare to share experiences where you've guided teams through complex projects, highlighting your approach to fostering collaboration and innovation.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect in-depth technical questions about model tracking, governance, and lifecycle management. Review your past projects and be ready to explain the challenges you faced and how you overcame them, especially in a production context.
✨Align with Their Vision
Research AstraZeneca’s mission and values, particularly their focus on ethical AI and patient outcomes. Be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their goals in advancing drug development.
