Our mission at Xyme is to solve important societal problems by revolutionizing the practice of synthetic chemistry through what we call xymes - AI-generated enzymes that can catalyze any reaction. As an innovative startup based in Oxford and Manchester, UK, we bring together interdisciplinary teams of scientists, engineers, and data specialists to push the boundaries of de novo enzyme design. Our dynamic and collaborative work environment is fueled by a passion for innovation. We cultivate a culture of continuous learning and improvement, where every team member can make a lasting impact on our groundbreaking research and real-world applications.

As Associate Director, AI Algorithms (Theozyme Design), you will lead our efforts to revolutionize enzyme design through cutting-edge AI approaches. You will head an exceptional interdisciplinary team driving the development of novel generative AI methods for the design of the enzyme binding site and active site - collectively known as the theozyme. This role requires deep expertise in modern AI techniques, particularly in generative methods, combined with the vision to adapt emerging technologies from other domains to solve complex biological challenges.

What you will do

• Lead and mentor a team of research scientists in developing novel generative methods for the development of enzyme design tasks, focusing initially on theozymes.

• Drive innovation in the application of cutting-edge AI techniques, including diffusion models, normalizing flows, and flow matching

• Identify and adapt emerging AI methods from other domains to advance enzyme design capabilities

• Foster collaboration across teams to integrate AI approaches with experimental validation and structural biology insights

What you will bring

• PhD in Computer Science, Computational Chemistry, or related field with significant post-PhD experience

• Demonstrated expertise in developing and implementing generative AI methods, particularly diffusion models and normalizing flows

• Track record of successfully identifying opportunities for fundamental research to provide business impact

• Strong background in chemistry and/or biotechnology with understanding of enzyme structure-function relationships

• Experience leading and mentoring technical teams in fast-paced research environments

• Outstanding publication record and recognition as a thought leader in AI for science

Highly Desirable

• Background in protein engineering or computational enzyme design

• Experience building and managing academic partnerships

• Experience working with, and combining, both simulated data (e.g. from physics based simulations) as well as experimental data from a variety of sources

What you will get from us

• Opportunity to shape the future of enzyme design at a pioneering startup

• Lead a talented team working at the intersection of AI and biotechnology

• Collaborative environment that encourages innovation and creative problem-solving

• Resources to attend and present at leading conferences in the field as well as publish in prestigious academic journals

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