Charles River is seeking a Senior Scientist – AI / Machine Learning to expand our AI‑enabled drug discovery capability. This role is central to turning advanced AI/ML methods into real‑world impact across integrated drug discovery programmes, supporting clients from hit identification through candidate selection.
You will operate with scientific independence, applying machine learning, chemoinformatics, and data science to complex drug discovery challenges while collaborating closely with chemists, biologists, and project leaders.
Key Responsibilities
* Design, develop, deploy, and apply AI/ML models for molecular design, prediction, prioritisation, and decision‑making
* Apply machine learning, chemoinformatics, and data analytics to drive high‑quality scientific decisions across discovery programmes
* Advance in silico, AI, and automation strategies to accelerate hit‑to‑candidate progression
* Collaborate cross‑functionally with medicinal chemists, biologists, computational scientists, and project leaders
* Translate complex data into clear scientific insights and recommendations for internal teams and external clients
* Stay current with emerging AI/ML technologies and scientific literature, sharing knowledge across teams
* Contribute to scientific proposals, client presentations, and business development activities
* Mentor colleagues and support the growth of informatics and AI capability across the organisation
* Represent Charles River at scientific conferences and external meetings as required
Required Qualifications & Experience
* PhD in Computational Chemistry, AI / Machine Learning, Chemoinformatics, Data Science, or related field
* OR
* BSc / MSc in Chemistry or Computer Science with significant industry experience applying AI/ML in drug discovery
* Proven experience developing and deploying AI/ML models in a drug discovery or life sciences environment
* Strong Python programming skills, including use of Jupyter notebooks and modern IDEs
* Experience working with structured and unstructured scientific data
* Demonstrated success in multidisciplinary, project‑based teams
* Excellent problem‑solving abilities and ability to communicate complex concepts clearlyPreferred / Desirable Experience
* Industry experience within a CRO or pharmaceutical drug discovery organisation
* Solid understanding of statistics and mathematical foundations of machine learning
* Experience with commercial and open‑source molecular modelling and cheminformatics tools
* Exposure to bioinformatics, biologics, or omics data
Additional Information
* Hybrid / onsite role with regular presence required at Chesterford Research Park (Saffron Walden)
* Travel may be required for client meetings and scientific conferences
What We Offer
* Competitive base salary with generous bonus
* Non‑contributory pension
* Health, dental, and wellbeing benefits
* Opportunities for scientific growth, leadership, and external visibility
* The chance to shape the future of AI‑enabled drug discovery