At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead AI strategies in Biologics drug discovery and design at AstraZeneca.
- Company: AstraZeneca is a global biopharmaceutical company focused on innovative medicines.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, excellent benefits, and a collaborative work culture.
- Other info: Applications close on 8 July 2025; we value diversity and inclusivity.
- Why this job: Be part of a vibrant scientific community shaping the future of medicine with AI.
- Qualifications: Ph.D. in relevant fields with strong experience in AI applications for biologics required.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
AstraZeneca is seeking an exceptional Senior Principal Scientist to lead innovative Artificial Intelligence (AI) strategies that are transforming its Biologics drug discovery & design. Based at our world-class R&D center in Cambridge, UK, the ideal candidate will spearhead novel computational approaches, drive the design and optimization of Biologics-based therapeutics, and collaborate cross-functionally to deliver scientific and technical breakthroughs at the interface of AI, structural biology, and drug discovery.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead the development and application of advanced AI/ML models for the design, engineering, and optimization of biologics (e.g., monoclonal antibodies, proteins, nanobodies, multispecifics).
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to innovate and automate workflows, integrating experimental and computational platforms.
- Mentor and guide junior data scientists, bioinformaticians, and molecular engineers in the application of data-driven approaches.
- Evaluate emerging technologies and external partnerships relevant to AI-enabled Biologics Engineering.
- Lead or contribute to the publication of high-impact scientific articles and present at internal and external conferences.
- Establish best practices for integrating large, complex biological datasets (protein sequences, structures, biophysical data) into model development pipelines.
- Translate scientific advances into actionable strategies for Biologics program teams, driving impact from hit discovery through candidate optimization.
- Champion responsible for innovation in AI, data privacy, and ethical use of machine learning in biologics research.
Essential Requirements:
- Ph.D. or equivalent in Computational Biology, Structural Biology, Bioinformatics, Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field.
- Strong experience in biopharmaceutical R&D or academia, with a strong track record of innovation in AI or machine learning applications for biologics.
- Deep expertise in protein modeling, biologics design, or related fields, with hands-on experience deploying deep learning or advanced statistical models in a research environment.
- Proficiency with modern AI/ML tools and frameworks (e.g., PyTorch, TensorFlow, scikit-learn).
- Demonstrated experience working with large, complex biological and biophysical datasets.
- Excellent communication, prioritisation, leadership, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
- Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals and demonstrated impact on biologics drug discovery programs.
Preferred Requirements:
- Experience leading teams or complex scientific projects in an industrial research setting.
- Knowledge of structure-based drug design, antibody engineering, or protein-protein interaction modeling.
- Familiarity with laboratory automation, high-throughput screening, and experimental design for biologics discovery.
- Awareness of regulatory, ethical, and privacy considerations for data-driven drug discovery.
Join us in Cambridge—a vibrant scientific community at the heart of AstraZeneca’s R&D network—to be part of an innovative Biologics Engineering group leveraging AI to shape the future of medicine. We offer a collaborative and inclusive culture, world-class research facilities, and rewarding opportunities to make a global impact.
Closing date for applications: 8 July 2025
Date Posted: 24-Jun-2025
Closing Date: 08-Jul-2025
Our mission is to build an inclusive and equitable environment. We want people to feel they belong at AstraZeneca and Alexion, starting with our recruitment process. We welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of characteristics. We offer reasonable adjustments/accommodations to help all candidates to perform at their best. If you have a need for any adjustments/accommodations, please complete the section in the application form.
Senior Principal Scientist, Biologics AI Innovation in Cambridge employer: AstraZeneca
AstraZeneca is an exceptional employer located in the vibrant scientific community of Cambridge, UK, offering a collaborative and inclusive culture that fosters innovation in Biologics Engineering. With world-class research facilities and a commitment to employee growth, we provide rewarding opportunities for our team members to make a global impact while working at the forefront of AI-driven drug discovery. Join us to be part of a mission that values diversity and encourages professional development in a supportive environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Principal Scientist, Biologics AI Innovation in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the AI and Biologics fields. Attend relevant conferences or seminars where you can meet current employees of AstraZeneca or similar companies. This can give you insights into the company culture and the specific skills they value.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise in AI/ML tools by engaging in online forums or contributing to open-source projects. This not only demonstrates your skills but also helps you build a portfolio that can impress hiring managers at AstraZeneca.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous projects in detail, especially those involving biologics and AI. Be ready to explain your thought process, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them, as this will highlight your problem-solving abilities.
✨Tip Number 4
Familiarise yourself with AstraZeneca's recent publications and innovations in AI and Biologics. Being knowledgeable about their work will allow you to tailor your discussions during interviews and show your genuine interest in their mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Principal Scientist, Biologics AI Innovation in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your experience in AI and biologics. Focus on relevant projects, publications, and any leadership roles you've held that align with the responsibilities of the Senior Principal Scientist position.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:In your cover letter, express your passion for AI innovation in biologics. Discuss specific examples of how you've applied AI/ML models in your previous work and how you can contribute to AstraZeneca's mission.
Highlight Collaborative Experience:Since the role involves cross-functional collaboration, emphasise your experience working in multidisciplinary teams. Provide examples of successful collaborations and how they led to scientific breakthroughs.
Showcase Your Publication Record:Mention your publication record in peer-reviewed journals prominently. Highlight any high-impact articles related to AI or biologics, as this demonstrates your expertise and contribution to the field.
How to prepare for a job interview at AstraZeneca
✨Showcase Your AI Expertise
Make sure to highlight your experience with AI and machine learning applications in biologics. Be prepared to discuss specific projects where you've successfully implemented advanced models, as this will demonstrate your capability to lead innovative strategies.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect in-depth technical questions related to protein modelling and biologics design. Brush up on your knowledge of modern AI/ML tools like PyTorch and TensorFlow, and be ready to explain how you've used these in your previous work.
✨Emphasise Collaboration Skills
Since the role involves cross-functional collaboration, be ready to share examples of how you've worked effectively within multidisciplinary teams. Highlight your communication skills and any mentoring experiences you have had with junior scientists.
✨Discuss Ethical Considerations
Given the importance of ethical use of AI in drug discovery, prepare to discuss your understanding of data privacy and regulatory considerations. This shows that you are not only technically proficient but also responsible in your approach to innovation.
