Associate Director, Data Scientist

Introduction to role

The Data Science team at AstraZeneca is dedicated to solving the most challenging problems in the pharmaceutical and clinical trial sectors through data science and machine learning. We are a group of experts collaborating with statisticians, biologists, chemists, and clinicians to innovate and solve today's challenges. If you are passionate about transforming patients' lives by accelerating the delivery of new medicines, this role could be perfect for you!

Accountabilities

In this role, you will work directly with stakeholders across BioPharma R&D to deliver insights from data. You will collaborate extensively with teams across the organization, combining clinical and data science expertise to develop innovative solutions. You will present your findings to senior stakeholders and publish in scientific journals and conferences. Your work will support activities across early and late stages of clinical development. You will lead projects, manage stakeholder relationships, and mentor junior team members.

The team's results have significantly impacted clinical trials, regulatory interactions, and the establishment of novel digital biomarkers. We encourage new ideas and innovations to continue making valuable contributions. Our ultimate goal is to deliver products and insights that improve patients' lives.

Key responsibilities 

• Use data science, machine learning and visualisation to support design and interpretation of clinical trials 

• Apply machine learning to challenges faced in late phase clinical trials, with deep understanding of underlying technologies and how to assess performance 

• Ensure projects make a tangible difference to business decisions to improve patients' lives 

• Communicate machine learning, statistical methods and insights to various domain experts, e.g.: clinical teams, data scientists, senior management, statisticians, external collaborators 

• Lead on projects including managing relationships with stakeholders, capturing business value and coaching junior members of the team. 

• Contribute ideas and provide creative input within the data science community at AstraZeneca 

• Work to good software engineering practices, eg: GitHub, Jira, Docker, unit testing, DVC, etc. 

• Work efficiently on small cross-disciplinary teams to optimally deliver projects across AZ business areas 

• Continue to develop as a data scientist / machine learning expert using personal development time 

Essential Skills/Experience
- Ph.D. or equivalent experience in machine learning, data science, computer science, statistics or MSc in machine learning, data science, computer science with additional experience.
- Experience as a data scientist/machine learning scientist in a commercial setting.
- Some experience in the pharmaceutical industry, with experience working with clinical trials and ability to demonstrate understanding of drug development and clinical trial processes and data (all phases).
- Knowledge and understanding of machine learning algorithms – including pros and cons of different approaches.
- Understanding of how to create robust and well tested models.
- Experienced in Python and familiar with modern software engineering practices and the use of modern collaborative tools (familiarity with some or all of the following: Best Practise machine learning development, AWS or similar cloud technology, GitHub, Jira, Docker, unit testing, DVC etc.).
- Track record of collaborating successfully on cross-disciplinary teams delivering impactful data science projects and analyses for stakeholders.
- Experience managing senior stakeholders to prioritise requirements, understand needs, capture business value, deliver and communicate results.
- Technical leadership and mentorship for junior data scientists on the team.
- Excellent communication skills, turning data science into stories and pinpointing business value.

Desirable Skills/Experience
- Experienced with clinical data standards, GxP framework, medical terminologies or SaMD.
- Experience delivering machine learning solutions to address medical or pharmaceutical problems with patient level data.

When we put unexpected teams in the same room, we unleash bold thinking with the power to inspire life-changing medicines. In-person working gives us the platform we need to connect, work at pace and challenge perceptions. That's why we work, on average, a minimum of three days per week from the office. But that doesn't mean we're not flexible. We balance the expectation of being in the office while respecting individual flexibility. Join us in our unique and ambitious world.

At AstraZeneca, we are committed to making a difference by fusing data and technology with scientific innovations to achieve breakthroughs. Our inclusive environment encourages collaboration across academia, biotechs, and industry to create the greatest impact on disease. We celebrate both successes and failures as we push boundaries to deliver life-changing medicines.

Ready to make a tangible difference? Apply now to join our team!

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.