Machine Learning and Cheminformatics Scientist - (10 Month Fixed Term contract to provide cover for parental leave)

Secondment / Contract opportunity

Location: Cambridge, UK

Do you have expertise in, and passion for machine learning and Cheminformatics? Would you like to apply your expertise to impact the design of drug candidates in a company that follows the science and turns ideas into life changing medicines? Then AstraZeneca might be the one for you!

At AstraZeneca, we turn ideas into life changing medicines. Working here means being entrepreneurial, thinking big and working together to make the impossible a reality.

We are seeking an experienced Computational Chemist for a fixed-term, 10-month position to provide cover for parental leave. The role is in Computational Chemistry with Machine Learning and is within the Medicinal Chemistry Department of the Oncology therapeutic area. The role is suitable for an early-career scientist with experience of Cheminformatics or machine learning, looking to expand their experience within a pharmaceutical drug discovery setting.

About AstraZeneca

AstraZeneca is a global, science-led, patient-focused biopharmaceutical company that focuses on the discovery, development and commercialisation of prescription medicines for some of the world’s most serious diseases. But we’re more than one of the world’s leading pharmaceutical companies!

Here, you’ll have the opportunity to make a meaningful difference to patients’ lives. With science at it's heart, this is the place where breakthroughs born in the lab become transformative medicines – for the world’s most complex diseases. Answer unmet medical needs by pioneering the next wave of science, focusing on outcomes and shaping the patient ecosystem.

With our ground-breaking pipeline, the outlook is exciting. Be proud to be part of a place that has achieved so much, yet is still moving forward. There’s no better time to join our global, growing enterprise as we lead the way for healthcare and society!

Site Description

The role will initially be based at our site in the Cambridge Science Park but will transition to the Cambridge Bioscience Campus in Cambridge during 2022. Both sites are close to Central Cambridge, which is within walking distance from the Train station. You will have access to on-site restaurant facilities and work within a bright and spacious environment while utilising the most advanced technology.

Cambridge Biomedical Campus combines world-class biomedical research, patient care and education on a single site location in the heart of Cambridge. This new purpose-built site will bring together the company’s research and development activity in a state-of-the-art strategic R&D centre and global corporate headquarters. The building has been designed with the open architecture reflecting AstraZeneca’s collaborative approach to research. Open laboratories and transparent glass walls will enable new ways of working across disciplines, whilst a central courtyard will put science on full display.

Do you want to work for one of the most exciting bioscience hotspots in the world, which plays a central role in our mission to deliver life-changing medicines to patients?

Business Area

Be part of fulfilling our ambition to be world leaders in Oncology. We are already the fastest growing team within AstraZeneca and across the industry, and there are countless new indications and targets in our game-changing pipeline. We deliver this value through launch excellence, commercial effectiveness and maximising the lifecycle. By capitalising on our commercialised portfolio we are confident we can change the practice of medicine and redefine cancer treatment.

What You’ll Do

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning have the potential for profound impact in drug discovery. We are looking for an enthusiastic individual to join our computational chemistry team and to apply these technologies to chemistry design challenges within the Oncology therapeutic area.

In this role you will use your expertise in machine learning and data analysis methods to solve challenging drug discovery problems in Oncology. Working in collaboration with colleagues in Cambridge (UK), Boston (USA) and Gothenburg (Sweden), you will contribute to the development of new machine learning methods for drug discovery, including ADME, safety and bioactivity prediction, and apply these to Oncology drug discovery projects.

You will:

• Impact multiple discovery projects simultaneously by efficiently and pro-actively applying a wide variety of machine learning methods and building models for molecular de novo design,
• Develop machine learning methods for the prediction of affinity, ADME properties and synthetic feasibility, including curating appropriate datasets.
• Drive scientific progress in applying machine learning in drug discovery
• Learn about, and be able to apply a wide range of computer-aided drug design tools and methodologies

Essential for the role

• Ph. D. degree in computational chemistry, Cheminformatics, machine learning or artificial intelligence; or
• B.Sc./M.Sc with equivalent experience
• A good understanding of a variety of machine learning concepts (e.g. Deep Learning, SVM, Random Forest)
• Understanding of medicinal chemistry, computational chemistry or Cheminformatics
• Experience with programming (e.g. Python, C++, Java)
• Excellent collaboration and networking skills
• Innovative problem-solver
• Strong oral and written communication skills, team-working and time-management skills

Does this sound like you? if so, apply today to embark on your journey into this ground-breaking organisation.

Why AstraZeneca

At AstraZeneca, we 're dedicated to being a Great Place to Work. Where you are empowered to push the boundaries of science and unleash your entrepreneurial spirit. There’s no better place to make a difference to medicine, patients and society. An inclusive culture that champions diversity and collaboration, and always committed to lifelong learning, growth and development. We’re on an exciting journey to pioneer the future of healthcare.

So, what’s next

• Are you already imagining yourself joining our team,? Good, because we can’t wait to hear from you.
• If you’re curious to know more please don't hesitate to apply or connect with our recruiter – Sam Hunter for a confidential discussion: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samhunter1/

We hope to be hearing from you very soon!

Competitive salary package and benefits

The successful candidate will have access to a flexible employee benefits fund, including holiday purchase and flexible time off, pension contributions, Share Save Plans, A performance recognition scheme and a competitive, generous remuneration package.

Closing Date: 21/08/2021

Where can I find out more?

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Date Posted

Closing Date

AstraZeneca embraces diversity and equality of opportunity.  We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse team representing all backgrounds, with as wide a range of perspectives as possible, and harnessing industry-leading skills.  We believe that the more inclusive we are, the better our work will be.  We welcome and consider applications to join our team from all qualified candidates, regardless of their characteristics.  We comply with all applicable laws and regulations on non-discrimination in employment (and recruitment), as well as work authorization and employment eligibility verification requirements.