Director, Data Science and Machine Learning

Company Description

FL121 is a privately held biotechnology company engineering nature to build next generation peptide therapeutics. By harnessing naturally occurring chemistry and pairing it with sophisticated high-throughput screening technology, we will unlock the future of de novo drug design via curated data creation and model training.

Role

FL121 is seeking a talented and highly motivated Director (Data Science/ Machine Learning). We’re looking for a resourceful computational problem solver and agile leader, someone who is not only scientifically rigorous and accountable for their and their team’s work, but also has a high EQ and is a motivating force within cross-functional teams. The ideal candidate brings a track record of building computationally strong data environments, developing predictive models based upon internal and external databases, driving results in a fast paced and demanding environment, and enabling others to do their best work, all while communicating with clarity and empathy.

Key Responsibilities

• Pioneer and lead computational efforts for FL121’s platform science

• Develop a data-framework and database for tracking DNA translation to chemistry, and chemistry to drug-characteristics in partnership with platform team

• Strategically map out chemical representation optionality and develop framework for platform chemistry that can scale with data

• Lead base-case chemical prediction models that can scale with data and forecast and scope data needs to enable models to have strong predictive power

• Build and support computational capabilities to unlock de-novo mass spec deconvolution models

• Integrate computational efforts across all platform workstreams to create a cohesive data-collection and integration workplace

• Serve as a cross-functional program lead, guiding interdisciplinary teams of computational scientists, mass-spec scientists, medicinal chemists, and synthetic biologists toward shared goals.

• Communicate computational goals, progress, and key decisions clearly across audiences, from scientists to executives, tailoring messaging with clarity and intention.

• Build and manage budgets, thoughtfully allocating in-house and external resources to maximize impact while remaining cost-conscious and efficient.

• Serve as a trusted, people-first leader fostering a collaborative, psychologically safe team environment that supports the scientific and personal development of team members.

• Lead with authenticity and transparency, encouraging open dialogue, surfacing diverse perspectives, and engaging in courageous conversations when needed.

Professional Experience and Qualifications

• Masters or PhD in a relevant field (e.g., computational chemistry, machine learning, data science, etc) with 10+ years’ experience in scientific/engineering/computational settings in biotechnology settings; industry AI/ML experience preferred

• Experience driving results directly or indirectly through teams of scientists and engineers in varied technical environments

• Depth across multiple core tools and concepts, including, Python, modern ML frameworks (RDKit, scikit-learn, Chemprop, etc), version control, databases, deep learning architectures, and relevant informatics software (AWS, Seqera, Benchling, etc)

• Demonstrated success as a team-oriented leader who motivates others and builds strong, trust-based relationships across functions

• Proven ability to lead complex, cross-functional programs balancing scientific vision with disciplined execution and strategic resource management

• Track record of intellectual agility and curiosity, with an ability to adapt quickly, think critically, and lead through ambiguity.

• Strong emotional intelligence, with demonstrated maturity in navigating interpersonal dynamics, providing feedback, and supporting the growth of PhD and non-PhD scientists.

• Exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal, with a consistent ability to convey complex ideas clearly and succinctly to diverse stakeholders.

• A people-first, enterprise-minded approach that uplifts others, builds cohesion, and drives a culture of collaboration and accountability.

We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

We recognize that great candidates often bring unique strengths without fulfilling every qualification. If you have some of the experience listed above but not all, please apply anyway. We are dedicated to building diverse and inclusive teams and look forward to learning more about your background and interest in Flagship.

Recruitment & Staffing Agencies: Flagship Pioneering and its affiliated Flagship Lab companies (collectively, “FSP”) do not accept unsolicited resumes from any source other than candidates. The submission of unsolicited resumes by recruitment or staffing agencies to FSP or its employees is strictly prohibited unless contacted directly by Flagship Pioneering’s internal Talent Acquisition team. Any resume submitted by an agency in the absence of a signed agreement will automatically become the property of FSP, and FSP will not owe any referral or other fees with respect thereto.

Privacy Notice for Applicants: When you apply for a role at Flagship Pioneering or one of its portfolio companies, we collect and use personal information you provide (such as your name, contact details, work history, and application materials) to evaluate your application, communicate with you, and comply with legal obligations. Your application data is processed through Greenhouse, our applicant tracking system, and may also be reviewed using AI-assisted screening tools. We do not sell your personal information. California residents have rights under the CCPA/CPRA including to know, delete, and opt out of the sharing of their personal information. If you are located in the EU or UK, we process your data under GDPR and you have rights to access, rectify, and erase your data. To exercise your rights or for questions, contact [email protected].

The salary range for this role is $232,000 - $319,000. Compensation for the role will depend on a number of factors, including a candidate’s qualifications, skills, competencies, and experience. FL121 currently offers healthcare coverage, annual incentive program, retirement benefits and a broad range of other benefits. Compensation and benefits information is based on FL121's good faith estimate as of the date of publication and may be modified in the future.

Privacy Notice for Applicants: When you apply for a role at Flagship Pioneering or one of its portfolio companies, we collect and use personal information you provide (such as your name, contact details, work history, and application materials) to evaluate your application, communicate with you, and comply with legal obligations. Your application data is processed through Greenhouse, our applicant tracking system, and may also be reviewed using AI-assisted screening tools. We do not sell your personal information. California residents have rights under the CCPA/CPRA including to know, delete, and opt out of the sharing of their personal information. If you are located in the EU or UK, we process your data under GDPR and you have rights to access, rectify, and erase your data. To exercise your rights or for questions, contact [email protected].