Principal Machine Learning Engineer (AI in Drug Discovery)

Placements24; Rustenburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1.200.000 - 2.400.000; Vollzeit

Benefits dieser Stelle

Competitive salary

Medical insurance

Retirement plan

Learning opportunities

Zusammenfassung

Placements24 in Rustenburg, North West, invites a Principal Machine Learning Engineer to lead AI initiatives for drug discovery. You will architect and deploy ML models addressing molecular properties, bioactivity, and synthesis pathway design in a research-driven environment.

The role requires deep ML theory and hands-on production experience, collaboration with computational chemists, and mentoring of juniors.

Qualifikationen

• Master's or PhD in a quantitative field with strong ML foundation.
• 7+ years in ML engineering applying ML to scientific problems.
• Experience building and deploying ML models in production.
• Proficiency in Python and ML libraries; CI/CD and data pipelines knowledge.

Aufgaben

• Lead design and deployment of ML models for drug discovery.
• Develop models for molecular properties, bioactivity, ADMET.
• Use TensorFlow/PyTorch and cheminformatics tools like RDKit.
• Build robust data pipelines for large chemical/biological datasets.
• Collaborate with chemists and medicinal chemists; mentor juniors.
• Deploy models to production; ensure scalability and reliability.
• Stay updated with ML and cheminformatics research; document findings.

Kenntnisse

ML expertise

Deep learning

Python

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Scikit-learn

Keras

Cloud AWS

Docker

Kubernetes

Ausbildung

Master's or PhD in CS/ML/Computational Chemistry

Tools

RDKit

Docker

Kubernetes

AWS

Azure

Jobbeschreibung

About the Role

Our client, a cutting-edge biotechnology firm in Rustenburg , North West , is seeking an exceptional Principal Machine Learning Engineer to lead the development of artificial intelligence solutions for drug discovery. This senior role is at the forefront of applying advanced ML techniques to accelerate the identification and optimization of novel therapeutic compounds. You will be responsible for architecting, implementing, and deploying sophisticated ML models that address complex challenges in areas such as molecular property prediction, target identification, and synthesis pathway design. The ideal candidate possesses a strong theoretical foundation in machine learning and deep practical experience in building and deploying ML systems in a research-intensive environment. This is a high-impact position within our client's innovative R&D division, located in the growing scientific hub of Rustenburg .

Key Responsibilities

Lead the design, development, and implementation of advanced machine learning models and algorithms for drug discovery applications. Develop predictive models for molecular properties, bioactivity, ADMET, and other key drug characteristics. Utilize deep learning frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch) and cheminformatics libraries for molecular representation and analysis. Build and maintain robust data pipelines for ingesting, processing, and transforming large chemical and biological datasets. Collaborate closely with computational chemists, biologists, and medicinal chemists to integrate ML insights into the drug discovery workflow. Deploy ML models into production environments, ensuring scalability, reliability, and performance. Mentor junior engineers and data scientists, and contribute to best practices in ML development. Stay current with the latest research and advancements in machine learning, AI, and cheminformatics. Author and present technical documentation, research findings, and project updates. Drive innovation by exploring novel ML approaches and technologies for drug discovery challenges.

Requirements

Master's or Ph.D. degree in Computer Science, Machine Learning, Computational Chemistry, Physics, or a related quantitative field. 7+ years of professional experience in machine learning engineering, with a significant focus on applying ML to scientific problems. Proven track record of designing, building, and deploying complex ML models in production. Deep expertise in machine learning algorithms, including deep learning (CNNs, RNNs, GNNs), and statistical modeling. Proficiency in Python and ML libraries such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, Scikit-learn, and Keras. Experience with cheminformatics toolkits (e.g., RDKit) and molecular representation methods. Familiarity with cloud computing platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) and containerization technologies (Docker, Kubernetes). Strong understanding of data structures, algorithms, and software engineering best practices. Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills. Experience in the pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry, specifically in drug discovery, is highly desirable.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, commensurate with your experience and expertise, along with performance-based incentives. A comprehensive benefits package includes top-tier medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with a generous retirement savings plan. We invest in our employees' growth through continuous learning opportunities, conference attendance, and access to advanced training programs. The work environment in Rustenburg is dynamic and innovative, offering the chance to work on impactful projects that could revolutionize medicine. Join us and contribute to shaping the future of drug discovery in the North West province.