Overview
All Applicants, for further questions and or consideration, please send a request to 
We seek a highly qualified and motivated Scientist with a strong background in machine learning/generative AI to join the AI Platform at Sanford Laboratories for Innovative Medicine (aka Sanford Labs). Sanford Labs is an independent, not-for-profit biomedical research organization with a mission to discover and deliver the next generation of molecular medicines.
RNA therapeutics consist of a rapidly expanding class of modalities (e.g., ASOs, siRNAs, mRNAs, and RNA aptamers) that can generate fast-track solutions in the clinic. At Sanford Labs, you will participate in developing and implementing AI/ML models and optimization paradigms to design best-in-class RNA therapeutics. As a Machine Learning Scientist, you will focus on designing and optimizing advanced AI/ML algorithms to address complex challenges in RNA therapeutics. You will develop and implement state-of-the-art architectures to enhance RNA sequence design, collaborating closely with interdisciplinary teams across Sanford Labs. This position offers an exciting opportunity to apply and refine cutting-edge machine learning methods while advancing innovative therapeutic solutions.
The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in machine learning, experience with modern AI architectures (e.g., transformers, diffusion models, or graph neural networks), and a keen interest in applying computational approaches to real-world problems in RNA biology and therapeutic discovery.
Duties and Responsibilities:
• Develop innovative machine learning-based drug discovery algorithms and technologies to be applied across Sanford Labs’ AI Platform.
• Implement AI/ML methodologies, including large language models and generative AI/ML, to solve complex challenges in the drug discovery space.
• Monitor and evaluate the performance of AI/ML models and drug discovery solutions.
• Utilize software engineering best practices to develop complex AI applications at scale.
• Research and stay abreast of emerging technologies relevant to drug discovery and AI/ML.
• Proactively scope and deploy novel computational methods and digital technologies.
Education and/or Experience:
• Doctorate or master’s degree in computer science, mathematics, computational biology, bioinformatics, biomedical data science or a related field.
• Expertise in deep learning and machine learning.
• Strong experience with Python libraries for data science analysis (e.g., NumPy, Pandas, and Matplotlib) and deep learning (PyTorch or TensorFlow)
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
• Ph.D. in computer science, mathematics, computational biology, or bioinformatics, including industry experience.
• Deep experience in and theoretical understanding of statistical modeling, machine learning, deep learning, and other relevant quantitative methods.
• Familiarity with the latest AI architectures and frameworks, such as Transformer-based models, Graph Neural Networks (GNN), and other generative models including diffusion models, Variational Autoencoders (VAEs), and Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs).
• Knowledge of RNA biology, particularly RNA structure, function, and RNA-binding proteins.
• Fluency in scientific programming and tool development with Python, R, or equivalents.
• Proficiency in C++ or Java is a plus.
• Proven record of innovative thinking to propose and champion the development of novel algorithms and AI/ML models that generated interpretable and actionable results for practical applications.
• Experience with software development good practices, including code versioning, documentation, and testing.
• Experience with cloud computing.
• Creative, open-minded, and passionate about scientific research.
• Demonstrated ability to thrive in a team environment.
• Strong interpersonal, collaborative, organizational, and presentation skills.
• Understanding of RNA therapeutic modality discovery and development.
No relocation will be provided for this role, the candidate must be local to the San Diego, CA region.
Supervisory Responsibilities:
This position does not currently have direct reports.
Perks and Benefits:
Generous employer-paid healthcare for Medical, Dental, and Vision.
100% Employer Paid Life, STD and LTD
401(k) Employer Match
Generous Vacation and Sick Leave
13 Holidays
Closed over the Christmas and New Year Holiday Break
Company:
Sanford Laboratories for Innovative Medicines
Qualifications:
Language requirements:
Specific requirements:
Educational level:
Level of experience (years):
Senior (5+ years of experience)
