Associate Director, Applied Data Science & Modelling

Lonza seeks an Associate Director for Applied Data Science & Modelling in Visp, CH. This hybrid role merges scientific knowledge with AI/ML expertise to drive digital innovation and business impact.

This position integrates deep scientific understanding with advanced analytics and digital innovation to accelerate research outcomes and generate tangible business value. The role operates primarily from the office in Visp, with the flexibility to work remotely for up to 20% of the time.

Responsibilities

• Apply AI, machine learning, and advanced analytics to solve high-value scientific and operational problems.
• Work closely with R&D scientists and Advanced Synthesis teams to convert complex business requirements into scalable digital tools.
• Build and deploy predictive models, optimization utilities, and decision-support systems.
• Partner with data engineering and technical groups to ensure robust, end-to-end solution delivery.
• Evaluate and introduce new AI/ML methodologies, technologies, and industry best practices to foster innovation.
• Set strategic priorities and establish scalable standards, frameworks, and working methods for Data Science & Modelling projects.
• Mentor team members and help build digital capabilities for future growth.

Requirements

• PhD in Data Science, Computer Science, AI/ML, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Bioconjugation, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
• Proven industry background in data science, AI/ML, computational sciences, cheminformatics, or bioinformatics within pharma, biotech, CDMO, or similar sectors.
• Advanced proficiency in machine learning, artificial intelligence, and data science, with a demonstrated history of delivering business results.
• Strong programming abilities in Python and hands-on experience with frameworks like PyTorch, TensorFlow, or Scikit-learn.
• Experience in developing complete data science solutions, from initial exploration and modeling through to deployment and user adoption.
• Excellent stakeholder management and cross-functional collaboration skills, with the ability to influence senior leadership.

Nice to have

• Experience in bioconjugation, MLOps, digital transformation, or scientific workflow optimization is highly desirable.

What the company offers

• Relocation assistance is available for eligible candidates and their families.
• An agile career path within a dynamic working culture.
• An inclusive and ethical workplace environment.
• Compensation programs that recognize high performance.
• The opportunity to shape and scale AI/ML and Data Science capabilities within a global organization.
• Leadership opportunities through mentoring, capability building, and strategic influence.
• A variety of benefits dependent on role and location.

About the company

Lonza operates more than 30 sites across five continents, fostering globally connected teams. The company’s core values include Collaboration, Accountability, Excellence, Passion, and Integrity. Lonza values diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

• Global presence with over 30 sites across five continents.
• Core values: Collaboration, Accountability, Excellence, Passion, and Integrity.
• Commitment to diversity and an inclusive environment for all employees.