Senior Principal Scientist, Biologics AI Innovation

Overview

Senior Principal Scientist, Biologics AI Innovation role at AstraZeneca. Based at the Cambridge, UK RandD center, the position leads AI strategies transforming Biologics drug discovery and design. The ideal candidate will spearhead computational approaches, drive design and optimization of Biologics-based therapeutics, and collaborate across functions at the interface of AI, structural biology, and drug discovery.Location

Cambridge, United KingdomResponsibilities

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 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 RandD or academia, with a track record of AI/machine learning innovations for biologics.Deep expertise in protein modeling, biologics design, or related fields, with hands-on experience deploying deep learning or advanced statistical models.Proficiency with modern AI/ML tools and frameworks (e.g., PyTorch, TensorFlow, scikit-learn).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 with 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.Why AstraZeneca?

Join a vibrant scientific community in Cambridge within AstraZeneca’s RandD network to contribute to an innovative Biologics Engineering group leveraging AI to shape the future of medicine. We offer a collaborative and inclusive culture, world-class facilities, and opportunities to make a global impact.Application Details

Closing date for applications: COB 26 September 2025Date posted: 02 September 2025Location: Cambridge, England, United ..... full job details .....