Director, AI Research

Introduction to the Role This position focuses on guiding AI research that converts complex, multimodal data into decisions to accelerate drug development and improve patient outcomes. It is a fantastic opportunity to thrive in an environment where bold ideas evolve into deployed models and peer-reviewed science, working alongside leading scientists, engineers, and product leaders! As the Director of EAI, AI Research, the objective is to lead a high-calibre, interdisciplinary team advancing machine learning across multiple therapeutic areas. The role entails setting the research agenda, inventing new methods, and transforming prototypes into robust, governed solutions that support imaging, diagnostics, and clinical validation pipelines. This offers a unique chance to build strategy from the ground up while staying hands-on with cutting-edge methodologies. Accountabilities Research Strategy: Lead the roadmap for priority problem spaces, supporting teams to develop high-value AI capabilities using modern engineering standards. Multimodal ML Innovation: Invent and apply methods in deep, representation, reinforcement, and active learning, tailoring metrics to domain-specific challenges. Translational Pipeline Impact: Convert scientific advances into production-grade models that improve decision quality and automate key discovery steps. ML Ops and Governance: Establish robust practices for model tracking, governance, and lifecycle management, ensuring responsible AI use. Cross-Functional Partnership: Advise and co-create with partners across therapeutic areas, translating business needs into effective ML solutions. Scientific Contribution: Mentor researchers, publish in top-tier venues, and represent AstraZeneca at leading conferences! Stakeholder Alignment: Maintain clear, multidirectional communication across the organisation regarding goals, risks, and results. Essential Skills and Experience Academic Background: PhD in computer science, statistics, applied mathematics, or a related area (or an MSc with 5 years of relevant background). Industry Experience: Minimum of 2 years developing machine learning models in an industry setting. Machine Perception: Expertise with methods in at least one relevant modality, alongside explainability techniques. Domain Application: Experience applying AI to fields such as pathology imaging, radiological analysis, diagnostics, prognostics, or clinical Quality Control. ML Ops Knowledge: Practical experience with model tracking, governance, and managing multiple models in diverse production contexts. Technical Leadership: Proven ability to lead teams through complex scientific and research efforts. Desirable Skills and Experience Publication Record: A strong research programme demonstrated by prestigious publications (e.g., Nature Machine Intelligence, NeurIPS, ICML) with at least one as lead author. Domain Expertise: Deep understanding of the drug development or clinical trial processes. Collaborative Delivery: A track record of successfully working with AI engineering teams to deploy complex predictive algorithms. Working Environment Collaborative Culture: Bringing unexpected teams together sparks bold thinking. To facilitate this, we operate on a hybrid model, working an average of three days per week from the office while respecting individual flexibility. Why AstraZeneca AstraZeneca pairs cutting-edge AI with profound scientific depth to deliver life-changing insights. The culture emphasises continuous learning, ethical standards, and doing things the right way. Access to rich, diverse datasets provides the foundation to build advanced enterprise analytics. Equal Opportunity and Accommodations AstraZeneca is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Call to Action If the prospect of leading breakthrough AI research and converting it into tangible patient outcomes excites you, apply today to drive what comes next! #EAI Date Posted 18-May-2026 Closing Date 31-May-2026 Our mission is to build an inclusive and equitable environment. We want people to feel they belong at AstraZeneca and Alexion, starting with our recruitment process. We welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of characteristics. We offer reasonable adjustments/accommodations to help all candidates to perform at their best. If you have a need for any adjustments/accommodations, please complete the section in the application form. AstraZeneca is a global, science-led, patient-focused biopharmaceutical company. We focus on discovering, developing and commercialising prescription medicines for some of the world's most serious diseases. But we are more than one of the world's leading pharmaceutical companies. At AstraZeneca, we're dedicated to being a Great Place to Work. Where you are empowered to push the boundaries of science, challenge convention and unleash your entrepreneurial spirit. To embrace differences and take bold actions to drive the change needed to meet global healthcare and sustainability challenges. There is no better place to make a difference in medicine, patients, and society. An inclusive culture where you will connect different thinking to generate new and valuable opportunities. Where you will find a commitment to lifelong learning, growth and development for all. Our Inclusion & Diversity (I&D) mission is to create an inclusive and equitable environment where people belong, using the power of our diversity to push the boundaries of science to deliver life-changing medicines to patients. Inclusion and diversity are fundamental to the success of our company, because innovation requires breakthrough ideas that only come from a diverse workforce empowered to challenge conventional thinking. We're curious about science and the advancement of knowledge. We find creative ways to approach new challenges. We're driven to make the right choices and be accountable for our actions. As an organisation centred around what makes us human, we put a big focus on people. Across our business, we want colleagues to wake up excited about their day at the office, in the field, or in the lab. Along with our purpose to bring life-changing medicines to people across the globe, we have a promise to you: to help you realise the full breadth of your potential. Here, you'll do work that has the potential to change your life and improve countless others. And, together with your team, you'll shape a culture that unites and inspires us every day. This is your life at AstraZeneca.