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Machine Learning Biology Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Amgen, Inc.

Sr Machine Learning Scientist

Thousand Oaks, CA · On-site +1

$96K - $131K/yr

Experience working with biological data, and in applying machine learning to computational biology * Strong communication and technical leadership skills with an enthusiasm for working in an ...

Amgen

Sr Machine Learning Scientist

Thousand Oaks, CA

$96K - $131K/yr

Experienceworking with biological data, andin applying machine learning to computational biology * Strong communicationand technical leadership skills with an enthusiasm for working in an ...

Human Archive

Machine Learning Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

Humans are the most sophisticated biological systems we have ever observed, yet we still do not ... The Opportunity As a Machine Learning Engineer, you'll work on multimodal perception, VLA training ...

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All JobsMachine Learning Biology JobsMachine Learning Biology Jobs in California

Machine Learning Biology information

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$22.7K

$51.5K

$73.5K

How much do machine learning biology jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for machine learning biology in California is $51,506.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,400.00 and $59,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in Machine Learning Biology?

Professionals in Machine Learning Biology often deal with challenges such as handling large and complex biological datasets, integrating heterogeneous data types (like genomics, proteomics, or imaging), and addressing the noise and variability inherent in biological data. Interpreting results in a biologically meaningful way and ensuring reproducibility of models can also be complex, requiring close collaboration with experimental scientists. Many teams are cross-functional, so frequent communication with biologists, clinicians, and software engineers is important for project success. While these challenges can be demanding, they also offer opportunities for innovation and significant contributions to scientific discovery or medical advances.

Is ML a high paying job?

Machine Learning Biology roles are generally well-paid due to the specialized skills required, such as expertise in data analysis, programming, and biological sciences. Salaries vary based on experience, location, and industry, but they tend to be higher than average for many entry-level positions in related fields.

What is a Machine Learning Biology job?

A Machine Learning Biology job involves applying machine learning techniques to analyze biological data, such as genomic sequences, protein structures, or medical images. Professionals in this field develop algorithms to identify patterns, make predictions, and derive insights that can advance research in drug discovery, personalized medicine, and biotechnology. These roles typically require expertise in biology, data science, and programming, often using tools like Python, TensorFlow, or scikit-learn.

Is AI taking over biology jobs?

Machine Learning Biology professionals use AI and data analysis to advance biological research, but AI is generally a tool that complements rather than replaces human expertise. Many roles require domain knowledge, critical thinking, and interpretation skills that AI cannot fully replicate, so AI is more of an aid than a threat to biology jobs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Machine Learning Biology position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Machine Learning Biology professional, you need expertise in both computational methods (especially machine learning and data science) and a solid understanding of biological sciences, typically supported by an advanced degree in bioinformatics, computational biology, or a related field. Familiarity with programming languages like Python or R, experience using machine learning frameworks (such as TensorFlow or scikit-learn), and working with biological databases are highly valued. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective interdisciplinary communication are key soft skills for this position. These competencies are vital for translating complex biological data into actionable insights and advancing research or product development in biotechnology and life sciences.

What is machine learning in biology?

Machine learning in biology involves using algorithms and statistical models to analyze biological data, such as genetic sequences or imaging, to identify patterns and make predictions. Professionals in this field often work with large datasets and tools like Python or R to develop models that can assist in tasks like disease diagnosis, drug discovery, and understanding biological processes.

What biology jobs pay over $100k?

In the field of machine learning biology, roles such as bioinformatics director, computational biologist, and data science lead often have salaries exceeding $100,000, especially with advanced skills in programming, statistical analysis, and experience with tools like Python, R, and machine learning frameworks. These positions typically require a strong background in biology and data science, along with relevant advanced degrees and experience in research or industry settings.
What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Learning Biology jobs in California? The most popular types of Machine Learning Biology jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Machine Learning Biology jobs in California? For Machine Learning Biology jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Machine Learning Biology jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Machine Learning Biology jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Machine Learning Biology jobs? Cities in California with the most Machine Learning Biology job openings:
Machine Learning Biology jobs near you
Director, Machine Learning, Virtual Cell Initiative

Director, Machine Learning, Virtual Cell Initiative

Arc Institute

Palo Alto, CA • On-site, Remote

$380K - $420K/yr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

About Arc Institute
Arc Institute is an independent nonprofit research organization at the interface of artificial intelligence and biology, working to accelerate scientific progress and understand the root causes of complex diseases. Founded in 2021 and based in Palo Alto, Arc partners with Stanford University, UC Berkeley, and UC San Francisco.
Unlike academia, our scientists have long-term funding and industry-like resources. Unlike industry, they're free to pursue high-risk, long-term research without commercial pressures. Arc's Technology Centers and Core Investigator labs work side by side, integrating experimental and computational biology under one roof to tackle problems neither could solve alone.
Our two Institute Initiatives reflect this model in action:
  • Virtual Cell Initiative: Building a full-stack virtual cell model to identify disease mechanisms and nominate drug targets, accelerating the path from biological insight to clinical trials.
  • Alzheimer's Disease Initiative: Mapping the genes, pathways, and environmental factors behind Alzheimer's disease to develop drug candidates that address root causes.

More than 300 Arconauts work together at our Palo Alto headquarters, backed by substantial long-term philanthropic funding.
Why this position could be the best job you've ever had?
  • Work at the center of AIxBio with the potential to revolutionize drug discovery for the world.
  • Work in a unique environment that incorporates both wet lab data generation and frontier AI modelling in an active learning loop.
  • Join a new type of research org that fuses high-velocity execution of a startup with the intellectual rigor of a world-class academic institute, with a long runway to tackle some of the hardest - and highest potential - challenges in science today.
  • Collaborate with some of the most accomplished scientists and entrepreneurs in the world.

About the position
We are searching for an innovative scientific leader experienced in building predictive models based on single-cell genomic data. The chosen candidate will spearhead the development and application of advanced machine learning models tailored for perturbative gene expression modeling, in the context of Arc's virtual cell initiative.
About you
  • You are passionate about machine learning, ideally with experience or strong interest in biology and single-cell genomics.
  • You want to develop highly innovative and accurate biology-inspired multimodal machine learning models.
  • You are excited about collaborating with a multidisciplinary team of computational and experimental biologists at Arc.
  • You are a strong communicator, capable of translating complex technical concepts at the intersection of machine learning and biology.
  • You are a continuous learner.
  • You are interested in recruiting and managing your own group of scientists and engineers as well as mentoring and training for other scientists.

In this position you will
  • Lead/build a team of 6 ML research scientists and engineers augmented with undergrad/masters/PhD students to contribute to the development of a state-of-the-art foundation model and agentic framework for understanding how cells respond to perturbations.
  • Work in an active learning loop with Arc's wet lab scientists to shape the world's largest and most diverse set of single cell training data across many cell contexts.
  • Collaborate closely with other research groups to integrate genomics, functional track,and omics data more broadly beyond scRNA-seq data and Perturb-seq
  • Stay up to date on the latest in frontier ML research and pioneer new architectures and approaches.
  • The ultimate goal is to build a high utility virtual cell model for use by biologists worldwide. We publish our breakthroughs to widely accelerate scientific progress and partner with some of the biggest names in AI.
  • Commit to a collaborative and inclusive team environment, sharing expertise and mentoring others.
  • Attract the very best talent in the world to support VCI initiative goals

Requirements
  • PhD in Computational Biology, Bioinformatics, Machine Learning, or a related field.
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience working in/with machine learning, well versed in frameworks such as Pytorch, TensorFlow, JAX, etc.
  • Proven experience leading research teams in a fast paced, multi-disciplinary environment.
  • Experience with or strong interest in biology with ability to communicate and collaborate successfully with biologists and pure ML engineers.
  • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with a strong track record of presentations and publications.

The base salary range for this position is $380,000-$420,000. These amounts reflect the range of base salary that the Institute reasonably would expect to pay a new hire or internal candidate for this position. The actual base compensation paid to any individual for this position may vary depending on factors such as experience, market conditions, education/training, skill level, and whether the compensation is internally equitable, and does not include bonuses, commissions, differential pay, other forms of compensation, or benefits. This position is also eligible to receive an annual discretionary bonus, with the amount dependent on individual and institute performance factors.

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