Machine Learning Scientist

About The Company Bayer is a global enterprise committed to improving human, animal, and plant health through innovative solutions and scientific excellence. Driven by a vision to solve the world’s toughest challenges, Bayer strives for a future where health for all and hunger for none become reality. The company fosters a culture of curiosity, energy, and dedication, encouraging continuous learning and growth. With a diverse community of brilliant minds, Bayer aims to redefine what is possible in the fields of healthcare, agriculture, and beyond. Joining Bayer means becoming part of a purpose-driven organization dedicated to making a meaningful impact on society and the environment.

About The Role As a Principal Machine Learning Scientist at Bayer, you will lead the development, evaluation, and application of cutting-edge machine learning models within the realm of biomedical research. Your work will focus on biomolecular design, target discovery, biomarker identification, and patient stratification. This global role offers the opportunity to shape the future of biomedical innovation by collaborating with an international team committed to digital transformation. You will be instrumental in advancing scientific understanding through the creation of biological foundation models, virtual cell and patient simulations, and multimodal data integration. Your expertise will directly influence ongoing drug discovery projects and contribute to the broader scientific community through publications and presentations. This position provides a unique platform to drive impactful research at the intersection of AI and life sciences, ultimately helping to improve health outcomes worldwide.

Qualifications

• PhD degree in computational chemistry, biology, bioinformatics, chemical or biological engineering, or a related field at the intersection of life sciences and computer sciences
• Extensive industry experience with deep expertise in state-of-the-art machine learning methods for biological modeling
• Proven hands-on experience with ML workflows such as sequence-to-function models, nucleotide language models, generative methods, and multimodal fusion techniques
• Experience working with large-scale biological datasets including single-cell, spatial omics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and imaging data
• Strong programming skills in Python, with proficiency in frameworks such as PyTorch, pandas, and scikit-learn
• Knowledge of modern bioinformatics tools, DNA/RNA biology, and AI workflow development
• Demonstrated scientific rigor, analytical thinking, and a track record of research achievements
• Excellent communication skills in English, both written and verbal
• Ability to collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary teams and with external partners

Responsibilities

• Lead the development, evaluation, and application of biological foundation models, including protein/RNA language models and multimodal generative architectures
• Design and implement virtual cell and virtual patient models that integrate multi-scale, multimodal biological data for cellular simulation and patient stratification
• Identify opportunities to accelerate drug discovery projects through internal and external AI capabilities
• Engage with stakeholders across disciplines—biologists, chemists, data scientists, R&D leadership, and external partners—to communicate findings and foster collaboration
• Stay abreast of the latest advances in biological foundation models, virtual cell/patient modeling, and related fields, publishing and presenting research externally
• Collaborate with R&D colleagues and occasionally interact with business development, licensing, and academic communities
• Lead initiatives to integrate AI into biomedical research processes and promote knowledge sharing within the team and with external collaborators

Benefits

• Competitive salary range of 104,300€ to 126,500€ annually, complemented by performance-based bonuses
• Flexible working arrangements, including hybrid and part-time options, to support work-life balance
• Comprehensive family support, including company daycare centers, childcare assistance, and support for elder or dependent care
• Access to continuous learning and professional development through Bayer Learning Academy, coaching, and mentoring programs
• Health and wellness initiatives such as free health checks and self-care resources
• An inclusive and diverse work environment that encourages authenticity and supports individual growth

Equal Opportunity

Bayer is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds regardless of race, nationality, gender, age, physical characteristics, social origin, disability, union membership, religion, family status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other legally protected status. Our commitment is to ensure fair treatment and equal opportunity throughout the recruitment process and beyond.