Head of Biological Machine Learning - Novo Nordisk

Welcome to an exciting opportunity at Novo Nordisk, a driving force in the life sciences industry. We are looking for an exceptional Head of Biological Machine Learning to lead our innovative team in the London/Oxford area. Join us to contribute to transformative research in the analysis and integration of diverse biological data modalities.

About the Position

As the Head of Biological Machine Learning, you will spearhead our efforts in establishing an integrated methodological framework for target and biomarker discovery within early research. This role encompasses:

• Analyzing high-throughput perturbative screening platforms in vitro.
• Applying AI/statistical methods in genomic and translational research.
• Enhancing data analysis with extensive background knowledge.

Collaborate closely with experts in computational biology, human genetics, drug design, and precision health to implement cutting-edge AI/ML techniques and computational pipelines. This position requires active engagement with our global data science and machine learning teams.

Your Key Responsibilities

In this role, you will:

• Lead a team specializing in AI/ML for analyzing various biological data types, including genetic/genomic, epi-genetic, transcriptomic data, imaging, and biomedical knowledge graphs.
• Establish an integrated computational framework to aid target and biomarker discovery in R&ED.
• Utilize and integrate real-world evidence effectively.
• Drive academic and industry collaborations, especially within London's knowledge quarter, and communicate findings through presentations, reports, and scientific publications.
• Strategize the use of generative AI to expedite the timeline from target identification to first human dose.
• Stay abreast with the latest advancements in deep learning, representation learning, and multi-modal data integration.

You will be expected to work from our London office at least twice a week and engage in 5-15% overnight travel.

Qualifications

We are seeking a candidate who meets the following criteria:

• PhD in AI/ML or bioinformatics.
• Several years of professional experience in the pharma/biotech industry, including leadership roles.
• Proven experience in establishing and managing computational drug discovery pipelines.
• Strong stakeholder management and priority alignment skills.
• Extensive experience in multi-modal data integration, bioinformatics, statistical genomics, epi-genomics, representation learning, large language models, and/or graph neural networks.
• Demonstrated use of real-world evidence and biobank data for drug discovery.
• Proficiency in Python and experience with PyTorch deep learning libraries.
• Experience with modern version control and continuous integration/testing systems like GitLab/GitHub.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

About the Department

The Machine Intelligence department at Novo Nordisk is integral to our AI and Digital Research (AIDR) division. We specialize in state-of-the-art representation learning, multi-modal data integration, and AI/ML approaches for target and biomarker discovery and drug design. Our teams work globally, leveraging advanced computational techniques to develop innovative medicines and improve patient outcomes. We maintain active external collaborations to stay at the forefront of research and technology.

Our Multi-modal Representation Learning scientists focus on analyzing various biological data types, employing a combination of traditional bioinformatic tools, large language models, biomedical knowledge graphs, graph neural networks, and multi-modal diffusion models. We partner with experimental colleagues in early research to accelerate the design of new drug candidates.

Working at Novo Nordisk

At Novo Nordisk, life is at the core of our existence. Our commitment to life drives groundbreaking scientific research and motivates us to perform our best. We aim to enable a life free from chronic disease and offer a culture that values diverse perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences. Join us to be part of a team that is changing lives.

Contact

Please submit your CV, cover letter, and a list of relevant publications via our careers site. We look forward to reviewing your application and exploring your potential to contribute to our dynamic and innovative team!

Application Deadline

Please apply before 1st July. Early applications are encouraged as our Talent Acquisition team engages with candidates on a rolling basis.