Industrial PhD student in Data-Driven Life Sciences

Are you passionate about applying computational approaches to solve problems in biomedicine? We are now looking for an Industrial PhD student in Data-Driven Life Sciences to work on a cutting-edge project in collaboration with AstraZeneca Chalmers University of Technology, funded through the Wallenberg National Program for Data-Driven Life Science (DDLS).

Chalmers University of Technology conducts research and offers education in technology, science, architecture, and maritime engineering. Chalmers is known for its multidisciplinary collaborations and strong innovation culture. The Department of Life Sciences (LIFE) conducts research, innovation, and education to enable a biobased society and improve human health. LIFE topics cover both basic and applied aspects of life sciences.

AstraZeneca is a global, science-led biopharmaceutical company (www.astrazeneca.com). At the Gothenburg R&D site, there are over 2 400 employees from more than 70 countries to deliver innovative medicines.

Data-driven life science (DDLS) uses data, computational methods and artificial intelligence to study biological systems and processes at all levels, from molecular structures and cellular processes to human health and global ecosystems. The SciLifeLab and Wallenberg National Program for Data-Driven Life Science (DDLS) aims to recruit and train the next generation of data-driven life scientists and to create globally leading computational and data science capabilities in Sweden. The program is funded with a total of 3.3 billion SEK (about 290 MUSD) over 12 years from the Knut and Alice Wallenberg (KAW) Foundation. In 2025 the DDLS Research School will be expanded with the recruitment of 19 academic and 7 industrial PhD students. During the course of the DDLS program more than 260 PhD students and 200 postdocs will be part of the Research School. The DDLS program has four strategic research areas: cell and molecular biology, evolution and biodiversity, precision medicine and diagnostics, epidemiology and biology of infection. For more information, please see https://www.scilifelab.se/data-driven/ddls-research-school/

The future of life science is data-driven. Will you be part of that change? Then join us in this unique Program!

The research group: The PhD student will be based both at AstraZeneca, Gothenburg, and at Chalmers University of Technology. At Chalmers, the student will be a part of the Holme Lab, based at the Division of Chemical Biology, Department of Life Sciences (LIFE). The Holme Lab is a multidisciplinary team of researchers addressing questions and challenges related to lipid self assembly in systems such as lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), extracellular vesicles and cell membrane mimics. We use a variety of single particle techniques as well as small angle scattering experiments to identify lipid self-assembly on a structural level, and correlate this with in vitro functional activity.

At AstraZeneca, the student will be integrated into the Data Science and Modelling department within the Pharmaceutical Sciences division. This multidisciplinary team utilises a combination of machine learning and mechanistic modelling to derive models and scientific insights from data, which both support and enhance drug development projects, and drive science forward.

This position is one of several industrial PhD roles funded by the DDLS program, which supports training in four strategic areas: cell and molecular biology, evolution and biodiversity, precision medicine and diagnostics, and epidemiology and biology of infection. At Chalmers University of Technology and AstraZeneca we are announcing the position as DDLS PhD student in data-driven precision medicine and diagnostics. This covers data integration, analysis, visualisation, and data interpretation.

The project:

The industrial PhD student will develop a comprehensive framework that integrates multiscale molecular dynamics (MD), AI and machine learning (ML) approaches, that together with biophysical characterisation techniques will advance the current state of lipid nanoparticle (LNP) understanding and its design. This research will focus specifically on enhancing targeted delivery systems for immunotherapy applications, representing a cutting-edge frontier in drug delivery science.

The student will work closely with Dr. Martina Pannuzzo (Associate Principal Scientist), Dr. Felix Faber (Associate Principal Scientist) and Dr. Suzy Jones (Associate Principal Scientist) at AstraZeneca, and Dr. Margaret Holme (Assistant Professor) at Chalmers, within a cross-functional and dynamic research environment. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of data-driven drug delivery at the intersection of computational biophysics, AI/ML modelling, and biophysics/chemistry-driven approaches to understanding and developing therapeutic lipid nanoparticles.

Focus areas of the position:

• Chemistry, biophysics

• Machine learning and generative AI

• Molecular modeling and molecular dynamics simulations

• LNP formulation and characterisation including e.g. small angle scattering, microscopy, single particle analysis techniques

Essential skills/experience

• We welcome applications from highly motivated candidates with a Master of Science degree (or equivalent, 240 ECTS) in Computer Science, Chemistry, Life Sciences, or a related field.

• Strong programming skills in Python

• Good understanding of chemistry and biology concepts

• Excellent communication skills in English (oral and written)

Desirable skills/experience

• Experience in deep learning/generative AI or molecular modelling

• Prior research or industrial exposure

• Ability to work in a multidisciplinary and collaborative environment

How to apply: The application, written in English, is submitted through the application portal of AstraZeneca and should include:

• Cover letter stating your motivation and relevant qualifications

• CV including academic achievements, technical skills, and at least two references

• Copies of certificates, degrees, grades, and (if applicable) TOEFL test results

Start date: 2025-09-01 or otherwise agreed.

Type of employment: Temporary position, 4 years

Working hours: 100%

If you’re excited by the possibility of joining a program that merges AI and pharmaceutical innovation, apply no later than May 13, 2025. We look forward to your application!

More information:

• https://www.astrazeneca.com/our-company/our-locations/gothenburg.html
• https://www.chalmers.se/en/
• https://www.scilifelab.se/data-driven/ddls-research-school/
• https://www.chalmers.se/en/departments/life/research/chemical-biology/holme-lab/

AstraZeneca embraces diversity and equality of opportunity. We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse team representing all backgrounds, with as wide a range of perspectives as possible, and harnessing industry-leading skills. We believe that the more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. We welcome and consider applications to join our team from all qualified candidates, regardless of their characteristics. We comply with all applicable laws and regulations on non-discrimination in employment (and recruitment), as well as work authorization and employment eligibility verification requirements.