Senior Simulation Software Engineer

Ark is a novel simulation platform for biomanufacturing, accelerating the development and production of new drugs for leading biotech and pharma companies. Our team is made up of world-renowned experts in bioprocessing, biomanufacturing, simulation and automation, all working together to create the first platform capable of accurately modeling and optimizing the production of modern biological drugs. Our simulation engine, or  “virtual bioreactor,” frees Ark customers from the limits of the wet-lab, allowing them to run unlimited experiments, save months of expensive trial-and-error, and get more drugs to clinical trials, faster. Fully optimized bioprocessing promises to save pharma customers $100Ms in scale-up and biomanufacturing costs, helping to reverse the trend of skyrocketing drug development timelines and costs. 

About the role We are seeking a Senior Simulation Software Engineer to lead the development of our simulation engine, working closely with our team of PhD-level bioprocess modelers and fullstack software engineers. Ideal candidates for this role will quickly ramp up to own the full complexity of ODE / PDE features, and ensure that simulations are accurate, performant, and scalable. You will lead the development of both mechanistic models and ML features and use expert judgment in the selection of the right approach for each problem. This role is critical to ensuring that our advanced bioprocess models are both robust and efficient.

Note: the level and corresponding title for this position will be determined based on the candidate's experience and qualifications.

Key responsibilites

• Own the simulation engine powering the Ark platform
• Collaborate closely with world-class (PhD+) modeling scientists to design and productize mechanistic and ML models into optimized software implementations.
• Develop, maintain, and enhance high-performance code that drives our virtual bioreactor simulations.
• Integrate complex bioprocess models into Ark’s bioprocess copilot, focusing on flexibility, scalability, and performance
• Build continuous testing and validation of software to ensure model accuracy and reliability in various bioprocess scenarios.
• Act as a bridge between the modeling and software engineering teams, facilitating clear communication and effective collaboration.

Requirements

• Experience developing simulations of complex systems using technologies such as numpy, scipy, or scikit learn
• Proven experience in developing production software, preferably in the context of an early-stage startup.
• Experience with scientific computing and algorithm development
• Fluent in python
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work in a collaborative, fast-paced environment.
• Excellent communication skills to effectively convey technical concepts between multidisciplinary teams.

Preferred Experience:

• Masters or PhD-level experience with simulation of dynamic systems using ODEs/PDEs
• Experience with ML, mechanistic, and hybrid modeling, and a nuanced appreciation for the pros and cons of each
• Experience with compiled languages (C++, Rust) and/or JIT-compiled python (e.g., JAX, numba).

Position

• Full-time, exempt
• Cambridge, MA (in-person required)
• Benefits include health, dental, and vision coverage, holiday and vacation time, 401k matching, stock options, and opportunity for career advancement as the company grows