Head of Advanced analytics and AI - 61970

The opportunity

The Head of AAAI focuses on setting strategic directions, leading AI-driven initiatives and ensuring delivery and impact on Discovery, Non-clinical Development and Clinical Development of R&D and supporting other key AI/ML initiatives of the R&D organization. With his team the Head of AAAI also provides expertise and facilitates the adoption of new AI/ML technologies vetted for their utility in enhancing R&D efficiency. This role collaborates closely all R&D functions and their business partners to ensure that AI/ML technologies are effectively developed and integrated into the Discovery, Non-clinical Development, Clinical Development and Post Approval work, driving forward the innovation agenda and ensuring that all AI initiatives are aligned with the strategic R&D objectives.

How you’ll spend your day

• Strategic Leadership: Define and execute the vision, mission, strategy, and focus areas for Advanced Analytics, Machine Learning (ML), and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in R&D (for all development and lifecycle management stages), ensuing alignment with overall company goals.

• Innovation Advancement: Actively identify areas where AI/ML can have a significant impact and lead the development and implementation of AI/ML solutions in antibody discovery, CMC, and non-clinical development.

• Algorithm Development: Able to develop cutting-edge ML algorithms that transform scientific, biological and clinical data to insights and tools.

• Technical Excellence: Provide technical direction, mentorship, and feedback to the team, staying abreast of technological advancements and the competitive landscape.

• Team Leadership: Inspire team members, build, lead and sustain a high-performing team culture, focused on proactive project delivery and impactful outcomes.

• Cross-function alignment: Establish and maintain relationships across R&D to enhance collaboration and integration.

• Infrastructure Oversight: Oversee and maintain a robust Advanced Analytics and Machine Learning infrastructure to support all operational needs.

• Technical Guidance: Act as the primary subject matter expert for AI/ML methodologies within the R&D organization. Provide advice and support to team members, ensuring the highest standards of data science are applied to pharmaceutical research and development.

• Innovation Assessment: Oversee evaluation and integration of pioneering AI/ML technologies and tools. Continually oversees assessment of the potential of new technologies and startups that could enhance the R&D capabilities of the organization.

• Strategic Partnerships: Identify and establish strategic collaborations with startups and technology partners to leverage external innovations and accelerate internal R&D projects.

• Integration: Work closely with other cross-functional teams, including IT, to ensure seamless integration of AI technologies into the broader R&D processes.

• Education: Develop training programs to enhance the AI/ML skills of R&D personnel, ensuring that the team remains at the cutting edge of technological trends and applications in pharmaceuticals.

• Advocacy: Champion the adoption of AI/ML across the R&D organization. Drive initiatives to cultivate a culture that embraces data-driven decision-making and continuous innovation.

Your experience and qualifications

• M.Sc./Ph.D. Degree in Data Science, Machine Learning, Computer Science, Biomedical Engineering or equivalent required.

• Minimum 8 years of applied technical experience in advanced analytics and AI/ML, expert understanding of Big Data, pattern recognition, machine learning and deep learning; strong working knowledge of scripting and programming languages relevant for data science, such as Python, and R.; and extensive experience in applying AI/ML pharma R&D work.

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in leading teams, with a demonstrated ability to lead the development and delivery of AI/ML solutions in the biomedical field.

• Exceptional leadership skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate effectively with stakeholders.

• Ability to think strategically and translate AI/ML capabilities into tangible R&D outcomes that align with business goals.

• Strong preference for candidates with pharmaceutical industry experience, and familiarity with drug R&D processes. Understanding of the broader pharmaceutical and biotechnology landscapes, with an enthusiasm for advancing AI/ML applications within these fields.

• Ability to address complex problems with innovative solutions, employ state-of-the-art tools and best practices.

• Proven track record in identifying, evaluating, and integrating innovative technologies into business processes. Experience in partnering with startups and external technology providers.

• Exceptional communication skills, capable of effectively articulating complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders and senior management.

• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with a creative mindset to overcome challenges.

• Fluent in English.