Head of Predictive Science, Digital and Automation

Head of Predictive Science, Digital and Automation

Location: Gothenburg/ Cambridge/Macclesfield

At AstraZeneca, we’re not afraid to do things differently. We’re building a new kind of organisation to reset expectations of what a bio-pharmaceutical company can be. This means we’reopening up new ways to work, pioneering ground-breaking methods and bringing cross-functional teams together!

We are looking to recruit an Executive Director, Head of Predictive Science, Digital and Automation (PSDA) tolead our investments and teams covering AI, modelling and data structures and automation across AstraZeneca’s global Pharmaceutical Sciences department – responsible for pharmaceutical development across AstraZeneca’s therapeutic portfolio with a focus on synthetic modalities.

 The successful candidate will be responsible for leading our data strategy, next generation automation workflows and investments in predictive pharmaceutics. This is a unique opportunity to apply these cutting-edge fields of research to the creation of future medicines to feed our expanding clinical portfolio.

 Your team is comprised of AI, modelling, automation and digitization groups working together with our wider wet-lab capabilities and partners across AstraZeneca to reimagine our data, design and pharmaceutical development workflows through internal innovation as well as strategic external partnerships.

Main duties and responsibilities

You will lead a direct line of ~30 scientists across our Sweden, UK & US sites focused on modelling and prediction across chemistry and formulation sciences, digitization and lab automation. Yow will work closely with other members of the Pharmaceutical Sciences leadership team to develop and lead our AI and digital and automation strategy to make sure we maximise impact of novel technologies in your area.  You will also lead projects across R&D and Operations to implement next generation workflows for AstraZeneca drug projects. A key partner is the corresponding teams in the Pharmaceutical Technology and Development department where you will be accountable to secure that we make optimal use of CMC data and modelling efforts across the value chain.

As a senior leader within our Pharmaceutical Sciences organisation, you will also have a significant role in leading both line and global matrix teams to maximise individual talents, as well as develop high-performing teams by role modelling and leading by example. You will have a passion for scientific delivery and innovation, developing science and technology strategy, shaping the future of Pharmaceutical Sciences, and building trusted relationships within and outside our organisation. Most importantly you will have a passion for translating technical innovation into medicines and impact for patients.

This opportunity enables you to work within a first-class R&D environment to support medicine creation across all of AstraZeneca’s Therapeutic Areas. You will develop and maintaina high level of science and technology knowledge and continue to build world leading specialist expertise in predictive science AI, digitization and automation.

Essential requirements

• PhD in a relevant scientific subject area or equivalent experience

• Strong track record of implementing predictive science and AI based methods as well as of data curation and implementation of digital solutions

• Experience of data science and AI leadership in a diverse matrix organisation across different regions

• Excellent communication skills

• Demonstrable experience in workflow automation (both in silico and wet lab)

• Track record of promoting, motivating and empowering others to accomplish individual, team and organisational objectives

• Initiates and successfully delivers value from external collaborations

• Represents AstraZeneca externally as an invited speaker at leading conferences

• Demonstrated ability to build and sustain networks and excellent working relationships with scientific/leadership teams globally

Desirable requirements

• Experience in leading change management initiatives and engaging organisations in new ways of working

• Experience in complex project management and delivery

Why AstraZeneca

At AstraZeneca when we see an opportunity for change, we seize it and make it happen, because any opportunity no matter how small, can be the start of something big. Delivering life-changing medicines is about being entrepreneurial - finding those moments and recognising their potential. Interested? Come and join our journey