Head of Algorithms- Chronic Disease Management

ZEISS•Dublin, CA

9d•$177,000 - $221,200

About The Position

This role will drive the development and deployment of advanced algorithms for ophthalmic imaging and chronic disease management, including AI-powered diagnostics, predictive analytics, and multimodal data fusion. You will lead a team of algorithm engineers and data scientists, collaborate with cross-functional stakeholders, and shape the future of ZEISS’s AI strategy in ophthalmology. This position reports directly to the Head of R&D – Chronic Disease Management and plays a critical role in defining the technical roadmap and innovation strategy for the division. You will also work closely with the Advanced Development of the Strategic Business Unit Ophthalmology (OPT) and the Digital Business Unit of Carl Zeiss Meditec (DBU) to align long-term research initiatives with product development and strategic innovation goals.

Requirements

Ph.D. or Master’s in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, or related field.
Minimum 5 years of hands-on experience in algorithm development, preferably in medical imaging or ophthalmology.
Minimum 3 years of experience in leading algorithm or data science teams.
Strong programming skills in Python , C++ , or Java .
Proven experience with AI/ML frameworks and deployment in clinical or regulated environments.
Deep understanding of ophthalmic imaging modalities and clinical workflows.
Excellent communication, leadership, and strategic thinking skills.
Experience working with regulatory bodies and clinical validation processes.
Product development experience

Nice To Haves

Experience with cloud-based AI deployment (AWS, Azure, GCP).
Familiarity with FDA SaMD and EU MDR regulatory frameworks.
Publications or patents in medical imaging or AI.
Experience in strategic planning and roadmap development.
Knowledge of AI ethics, data governance, and clinical-grade model validation.

Responsibilities

Algorithm Development & Innovation
Lead the design and implementation of algorithms across key areas: Image segmentation (e.g., retinal layers, optic disc, macula)
Disease detection and classification (e.g., glaucoma, AMD, diabetic retinopathy)
Progression prediction models for chronic conditions
Multimodal fusion algorithms integrating OCT, fundus, and angiography data
Oculomics-based systemic disease prediction (e.g., cardiovascular, neurodegenerative)
AI/ML Strategy & Execution
Define and execute the AI strategy for chronic disease management within ophthalmology.
Apply advanced machine learning techniques: Deep learning (CNNs, transformers)
Self-supervised and semi-supervised learning
Federated learning for privacy-preserving model training
Explainable AI (XAI) for clinical interpretability
Ensure responsible AI practices, including bias mitigation, transparency, and clinical safety.
Utilize frameworks such as TensorFlow , PyTorch , ONNX , and OpenCV .
Collaborate on AI deployment pipelines, model optimization, and real-time inference on embedded platforms.
Leadership & Team Management
Build, mentor, and lead a high-performing team of algorithm developers and data scientists.
Foster a culture of innovation, technical excellence, and accountability.
Drive hiring, performance management, and career development.
Cross-Functional & Collaborations
Work closely with software and hardware engineering, clinical affairs, regulatory, product management, and quality teams to ensure seamless integration of algorithms into ZEISS platforms.
Collaborate with the Advanced Development OPT and the DBU to align on foundational research, technology scouting, and long-term innovation.
Partner with academic institutions and key opinion leaders to co-develop and validate novel approaches.
Documentation & Regulatory Readiness
Develop and maintain comprehensive documentation for algorithm traceability, reproducibility, and regulatory compliance (FDA, CE).
Support clinical trials and validation studies for algorithm performance.