Meet Jesper. He’s a Senior Director in Machine Intelligence.

A tale of simulation and automation

My job is about applying advanced techniques within biophysics and machine learning to rationalise complex data – and the ultimate aim of that is to help design new molecules for patients. That is, essentially, what I do as the head of the Machine Intelligence department in the Digital Science and Innovation area in R&ED. Our team is responsible for advanced AI, machine learning, and statistics to support the scientists within computational drug discovery, computational biology, human genetics, and computational precision health.

But you got it back, right?

☁ I've forgotten my bike on the train... three times.

Joining

The bigger picture

I chose to seek job opportunities at Novo Nordisk because it had a very good reputation, both ethically and workwise. And because I saw an opportunity to contribute to make a real and meaningful difference for patients by applying my scientific background in theoretical physics and machine learning in a larger cross-disciplinary context.

Collaboration

Overcoming challenges

When I joined Novo Nordisk, I was surprised by the high scientific level on one hand, but also by the legacy of working processes and fragmented IT solutions on the other. Combined, these aspects create hindrances to the implementation of modern and high-throughput data acquisition and analyses. However, this is something we're ambitiously trying to change.

The pharmaceutical industry is undergoing a transformative process where digital solutions are pivotal. The discovery of novel drugs for challenging diseases will rely on modern high-throughput assays and advanced analysis methodologies, and this can only be realised by engaging with experts in the digital and technical domains. I believe we're succeeding in this at Novo Nordisk by pooling the skills and efforts of chemists, bioinformaticians, data scientists, engineers, and software engineers.

Communities

Engaging discussions

Internally and externally, I’m affiliated with communities themed around Machine Learning, and more specifically within physics, chemistry, and biology. But I am also part of Novo Nordisk’s communities for IT-solutions, data management, and scientific engineering.

Where it all began

❶❷ At the age of twelve, I wrote down all the combinations for a typical 6-pin bicycle lock, and subsequently, I helped kids in the neighbourhood with opening bicycles belonging to 'aunts' and 'uncles' who had forgotten their code. This went on until... well...

We're seeing a theme here

∞ My wife keeps a collection of images of strange places where I have left my glasses.

Just a few – but quite – important personal highlights

␥ As a child, learning to play the piano from my grandmother
␥ My high school years, during which I formed most of my closest friendships
␥ Enrolling to study Physics at the University of Copenhagen in 1992
␥ Meeting and marrying Lotta in 2001. Still happily married
␥ Father of two children, Daniel (2003) and Rebecca (2006)