Principal Machine Learning Scientist

RTP, NC - Hybrid | Full-Time

The mission

CellForge is an AI-guided robotic platform for scalable, reproducible human cell manufacturing. We combine single-cell transcriptomics, imaging, and robotic culture systems with machine learning to discover and implement optimal differentiation protocol, and close the loop between what the cells tell us and what we do next.

The role

You will build the intelligence layer: models that listen to cells, predict where they're going, and actively steer them toward target states. This is a hands-on principal-level IC role reporting directly to the CEO.

Core work

• Design and deploy closed-loop learning systems using methods including Bayesian optimisation, model predictive control, reinforcement learning and active learning to guide experimental campaigns in real time
• Build multimodal models across single-cell RNA-seq, imaging, time-series sensor data, and experimental metadata
• Develop trajectory-aware dynamics models for cell fate prediction and protocol optimisation
• Define data pipelines and ML infrastructure for high-throughput biological experimentation
• Work directly with biologists and automation engineers to translate biological questions into tractable ML problems

What we're looking for

Required

• Strong ML fundamentals - probabilistic modelling, optimisation, experimental design
• Hands-on experience with biological data, especially scRNA-seq (scanpy, anndata, scVI etc); imaging processing is a plus
• Proficiency in Python and PyTorch (or equivalent)
• Demonstrated ability to ship models in complex, real-world settings with noisy, sparse data
• PhD or equivalent practical depth in ML, computational biology, bioinformatics, or related field

Preferred

• Experience with closed-loop or real-time learning systems
• Prior biotech / scientific ML work
• Experience in an early-stage company environment
• Publications in top domain-relevant journals

What we offer

• Ground-floor ML ownership at a seed-stage deep tech company
• We pay a real salary - just below market - and weight the rest toward meaningful equity. Ideal if you're excited to build long-term value with us.
• Direct access to founders and the full experimental platform - you see the data you generate
• High autonomy, fast pace, real biological impact
• Excellent medical benefits, dental, eyecare, and more