Head of AI Structural Biology Research

Absci is a generative AI drug creation company on a mission to create better biologics for patients, faster. We are the company unlocking the design of new antibodies on a computer from scratch, and we’re just getting started. It will take a state-of-the-art wet lab, artificial Intelligence, and above all else a team of brilliant Unlimiters working together to achieve our vision of breakthrough therapeutics at the click of a button, for everyone. We are gritty, creative, and we are pushing the limits of science in a way that no one has done before because that’s how we will save lives. Join us as we redefine what’s possible.

Absci is a global company with a state-of-the-art lab and headquarters in the beautiful Pacific Northwest US, ten minutes from Portland, Oregon, and its AI Research Lab in the heart of New York City. Check out this short video to learn more and see how #Unlimiters are creating drugs at the speed of AI.

Head of AI Research – Structural Biology

We seek Head of AI Research – Structural Biology for our AI Research and Engineering team. We are looking for a Scientist that is highly experienced in applying AI techniques to biological problems and looking to lead and mentor a team of AI researchers who are developing antibody design tools to accelerate drug development.

You will be responsible for developing and executing a technical roadmap with the team, fostering teamwork within the group and between groups, and ensuring the successful use of our AI tools in drug creation programs.

Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage a team of 4-6 AI/ML researchers, providing technical guidance and fostering a culture of innovation
• Oversee the development and implementation of novel AI/ML models and algorithms, particularly in areas like amino acid sequence generation and 3D protein structure prediction
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams of lab scientists, program managers, and software engineers to define research objectives and translate findings into practical applications
• Manage and prioritize multiple research projects, ensuring alignment with Absci’s goals and timelines
• Contribute to the architectural design of AI systems, balancing research exploration with production-grade implementations
• Provide thought leadership for the team, particularly in methods relevant to antibody engineering
• Mentor team members, fostering their growth as AI researchers and engineers
• Represent Absci’s AI research capabilities at conferences, in publications, and in collaborations with academic and industry partners
• Instilling and ensuring adherence to the company’s core values

Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Computer Science, Machine Learning, Computational Biology, or a related field
• 5+ years of experience in AI/ML research, with at least 2 years in a technical lead role
• Strong publication record or demonstrated expertise in areas such as generative AI, deep learning, or computational biology
• Experience applying AI techniques to biological problems, particularly in protein design or drug discovery
• Proven track record of leading successful AI research projects and translating research into practical applications
• Excellent communication skills, able to explain complex AI concepts to diverse audiences
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to think critically about AI research challenges

Preferred (but not required):

• Experience with large-scale multi-node training on bare metal HPC GPU clusters or in AWS
• Experience with NGS, SPR, or Flow Cytometry data analysis
• Previous experience managing AI research teams

The salary range for this position is $255,000 – $330,000/year. Competitive equity package applies. Pay offered may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. In addition to equity, compensation packages include a wide range of medical, dental, vision benefits and ability to participate in our employee stock purchase plan.

Absci offers highly competitive salaries and benefits, including medical, dental, vision insurance, unlimited vacation, parental leave, breakfast and lunch for onsite employees, employee assistance program, voluntary life and disability insurance, annual bonus potential, and 401(k) with a generous company match. Legal authorization to work in the United States is required.