Associate Director, Applied Data Science & Modelling

About the role

Join Lonza in Visp, Switzerland as an Associate Director leading the application of AI/ML, advanced analytics and data science to solve high‑value scientific and operational challenges. This office‑first, hybrid role supports close collaboration while allowing one remote day per week.

Key responsibilities

• Lead AI/ML and data science initiatives to improve research outcomes and operational efficiency.
• Partner with R&D scientists and Advanced Synthesis stakeholders to translate business needs into scalable digital solutions.
• Design and implement predictive models, optimization tools and decision‑support systems.
• Collaborate with data engineering, digital and technical teams to deliver end‑to‑end solutions from concept to deployment.
• Drive innovation by evaluating emerging AI/ML methodologies and establishing standards and frameworks.
• Mentor colleagues and contribute to the growth of digital capabilities within the organization.

Required profile

• PhD or equivalent experience in Data Science, Computer Science, AI/ML, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or related discipline.
• Solid industry experience in data science, AI/ML, cheminformatics, bioinformatics or similar fields within pharma, biotech or CDMO environments.
• Proven track record of delivering business impact with advanced machine‑learning solutions.
• Excellent stakeholder management and ability to influence senior leaders.

Required skills

• Strong programming in Python.
• Experience with machine‑learning frameworks such as PyTorch, TensorFlow or Scikit‑learn.

What we offer

• Agile career and dynamic working culture.
• Inclusive and ethical workplace.
• Compensation programs that recognize high performance.
• Opportunity to shape and scale AI/ML capabilities globally.
• Leadership opportunities through mentoring and strategic influence.
• Benefits package varying by location (Visp, Basel, Oss).