Director of R&D, Artificial Intelligence
Thermo Fisher Scientific · Waltham, MA · Yesterday
On-siteEngineering$176k–$264k/yrFull-time
About the role
The successful candidate will partner with cross-functional teams of scientists, software engineers, and domain experts to shape and execute an AI-driven informatics vision that accelerates scientific discovery. This role operates as a hands-on leader working across a matrixed organization to guide and deliver impactful AI/ML initiatives.
Responsibilities
- Help to define and execute the AI strategy for R&D, aligned with organizational goals and innovation priorities
- Partner with R&D domain experts to identify high-value use cases and translate them into technical solutions
- Lead complex, cross-functional initiatives by influencing and coordinating teams across organizational boundaries
- Drive adoption of AI tools and methodologies across R&D teams
- Partner with stakeholders to identify high-impact opportunities and translate them into scalable computational strategies and solutions
- Contribute directly to model development, data analysis, and algorithm design where appropriate, maintaining a hands-on technical presence
- Champion the integration of generative AI, large language models (LLMs), and foundation models into scientific workflows
- Evaluate emerging technologies and external collaborations to accelerate innovation
- Stay current with emerging AI technologies and assess their applicability to the organization and non-technical stakeholders
- Communicate complex technical concepts and insights clearly to diverse audiences, including senior leadership
- Represent the organization through scientific publications, conference presentations, and external partnerships
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Data Science, AI, Engineering, or a related field preferred
- Advanced degree (PhD preferred) in Computer Science, Data Science, AI, Engineering, or a related field
- Experience: 5-10 years of experience in computational life sciences, including strong experience applying AI/ML to R&D processes in innovation driven environments
- Demonstrated expertise in managing complex informatics projects and teams in the life sciences research industry
- Proven ability to translate scientific problems into computational and AI-driven solutions at scale
- Experience with data architecture and cloud platforms
- Excellent communication skills with the ability to translate complex technical concepts to diverse stakeholders
Qualifications
- May require occasional travel (up to 20%)
Skills
- Strong understanding of AI/ML principles and techniques
- Experience with data science and machine learning tools and frameworks
- Ability to work effectively in a matrixed organization
- Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
Benefits
We Offer:
- Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits package
- Career development opportunities within a global organization
- Collaborative and innovative work environment
- Opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge scientific advances that impact human health
- Flexible work arrangements
Pay
The salary range estimated for this position based in Massachusetts is $176,000.00–$264,500.00. This position may also be eligible to receive a variable annual bonus based on company, team, and/or individual performance results in accordance with company policy.
Schedule
Standard (Mon-Fri)