Senior Expert (AI Engineering)

Novartis Pharma Schweiz AG seeks a Senior Expert in AI Engineering in Basel to transform machine learning models into scalable solutions for drug discovery. The role combines innovation with production deployment to advance scientific research and patient outcomes.

This position bridges the gap between cutting-edge research and practical application, focusing on converting sophisticated machine learning models into robust, scalable systems. The role plays a key part in shaping how artificial intelligence drives scientific breakthroughs and enhances healthcare results.

Responsibilities

• Develop and train complex machine learning architectures, such as deep learning and graph-based models, specifically for pharmaceutical research.
• Manage the complete model lifecycle, starting from initial problem scoping through to production release and ongoing refinement.
• Perform thorough testing and benchmarking to ensure models meet both scientific standards and business goals.
• Implement high-performance inference services that satisfy strict requirements for speed, capacity, and cost efficiency.
• Create automated workflows for model training, retraining, and monitoring, incorporating mechanisms to detect data drift.
• Refine models and associated pipelines to maximize efficiency, stability, and scalability within live environments.
• Champion engineering standards that ensure reproducibility, rigorous testing, and consistent deployment practices.
• Work alongside diverse teams to convert research concepts into functional, production-ready AI tools.
• Team up with scientific specialists to verify model accuracy against biological and chemical reference points.
• Guide team members and help elevate engineering standards throughout the AI for Research division.

Requirements

• At least four years of hands-on experience creating, training, and launching machine learning models that have demonstrated tangible results.
• Advanced skills in Python and frameworks like PyTorch or JAX, with a strong focus on model architecture and optimization.
• Demonstrated ability to fine-tune and deploy large pre-trained or foundation models, including those used in language and scientific contexts.
• Solid grasp of model assessment techniques, including benchmarking, cross-validation, and evaluating performance across varied datasets.
• Background in distributed training and working within large-scale computing setups for high-performance model development.
• Practical experience in optimizing models and pipelines to improve latency, throughput, cost, and overall production performance.
• Familiarity with MLOps workflows, including experiment tracking, model versioning, reproducibility measures, and cloud-based deployment.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities, strong collaboration skills, and clear communication, with a focus on driving engineering quality in complex settings.

What the company offers

• Comprehensive benefits package featuring insurance coverage, retirement savings options, wellness resources, and global recognition initiatives.
• Hybrid work arrangements and flexible scheduling where feasible.
• Generous parental leave policy providing at least 14 weeks of paid time off.

About the company

Novartis Pharma Schweiz AG is dedicated to reimagining medicine through collaborative efforts and values the contributions of its workforce in making these advancements possible.

• The organization emphasizes teamwork in redefining medical treatments.
• Employee contributions are recognized and rewarded as key drivers of innovation.