Machine Learning Scientist

Redwood City, CA
Applied AI /
Full-time /
On-site
Retro Biosciences is a fast-growing biopharma startup using high-throughput, high-dimensional approaches to develop therapies for diseases driven by the biology of aging. We are looking to expand our exceptional team at our Redwood City location. 

We are seeking a highly organized and driven Machine Learning Scientist passionate about solving complex challenges and eager for rapid iteration at large scale. If you're excited about advancing cutting-edge ML algorithms for single-cell data and keen to develop models that not only push the limits of the possible but also directly impact experimental results, we encourage you to apply. This position is ideal for an individual who is entrepreneurial and eager to learn and grow exponentially within a collaborative and supportive team of fellow scientists and engineers.

Primary responsibilities:

    • Research and push the boundaries of foundation models for single-cell data across multiple modalities (RNA, chromatin, methylation, imaging)
    • Develop ways to enhance these models with biological priors from other data sources (literature, knowledge graphs, protein features)
    • Translate internal and public datasets into tractable modeling problems and biologically relevant evals

Qualifications:

    • Ph.D. (Computer Science, Machine Learning, Statistics, or related) or equivalent 3-6 years of intensive, relevant research experience in industry
    • Deep understanding of machine learning and deep learning algorithms. Proven expertise in developing and implementing state-of-the-art models like transformers, diffusion models, and self-supervised learning approaches
    • In-depth knowledge of single-cell data (common pitfalls, how to process it, how to model it)
    • Experience in applying good software engineering practices in a scientific environment. Proficiency in Python, and experience with ML frameworks like PyTorch is a must
    • Showcases of technical leadership with scientific achievements, including publications and presentations
    • Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work efficiently and productively in a dynamic, scientifically rigorous, and fast-paced environment

You may be a good match for this role if you are:

    • A hacker: you build quickly, and you find your way to information
    • Enthusiastic about rapidly and creatively experimenting, learning, and constantly improving
    • Excellent at explaining technical concepts clearly with an open communication style
    • Deeply care about aging and extending healthy human lifespan
About Retro Our leadership team is a group of mission-driven, kind, and thoughtful individuals. We take pride in evolving a work environment that fosters collaboration, open communication, and authenticity. We believe that great results are best delivered by a highly creative group working in concert. We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company; we do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

Our mission is to extend healthy human lifespan by one decade.

Retro develops therapies for diseases driven by the biology of aging. We work on (1) partial reprogramming, (2) blood factors, and (3) autophagy to rejuvenate cell and tissue function with the ultimate aim of adding years to healthy human lifespan.  We are looking to expand our exceptional team at our Redwood City location. The annual salary range for this role is $170,000 - $230,000. Total compensation also includes generous equity and benefits. Benefits and perks:

- Medical, dental, and vision insurance for you and your family
- 401(k) plan with 4% matching
- Unlimited time off and 10 company holidays per year
- Paid parental leave 
- Annual learning & development stipend 
- Free lunch and snacks