Associate Director, Data Science
Novartis
In this role you lead AI-augmented modelling to bridge biology and clinical outcomes, shaping data-driven decision-making across discovery and clinical development. You will build hybrid ML-mechanistic pipelines and translate modelling insights into actionable decisions. You’ll collaborate across PKS M&S, Translational Medicine, and project teams to scale reproducible data science workflows. The opportunity sits at the intersection of biology, software, and translational medicine, driving innovation in AI-enabled drug discovery.
Pay / Benefits- performance-based cash incentive
- equity eligibility
- comprehensive benefits package
- 401(k) with company match
- generous time off including vacation and holidays
- health, life and disability benefits
- Shape AI-driven MIDD by integrating mechanistic modelling with machine learning
- Design and implement hybrid modelling pipelines that use mechanistic simulations as ML features
- Translate model-derived biomarkers into clinically relevant predictions and decision-support tools
- Advance robust, interpretable AI approaches to improve mechanistic understanding
- Develop scalable, reproducible workflows combining data science, modelling, and in-house tools
- Define project-specific in silico modelling and data strategies aligned with decision questions
- Link molecular structure, ADME properties, and pharmacological outcomes across modalities using advanced analytics
- Promote adoption of in silico models to accelerate decision-making
- Collaborate with PKS, Translational Medicine, and Data & Digital teams to integrate diverse datasets
- Communicate modelling insights to influence translational decisions
- Stay current with AI/ML advances and evaluate their application to ADME, PK/PD, and drug development
- Contribute to translational programs across disease areas and support strategy and innovation
- PhD with 5+ years or MSc with 8+ years in drug discovery or development
- Strong expertise in machine learning, statistics, and data science methods
- Experience applying reproducible data science approaches to drug discovery or development
- Experience combining mechanistic modelling and data-driven approaches is strongly preferred
- Strong understanding of ADME, PK/PD, and translational modelling concepts
- Proficiency in Python and/or R with software development best practices
- Experience with ML libraries such as scikit-learn, PyTorch, or Keras
- Strong data visualization and exploratory data analysis skills
- Ability to translate complex analytical concepts into clear insights
- Strong collaboration and communication skills across multidisciplinary teams
- Fluency in English (oral and written)
- Cross-functional collaboration
- Clear scientific communication
- Strategic thinking
- Python
- R
- scikit-learn
Reference: WJ-747_30140735