Director, Data Science

This position will be located at the East Hanover, NJ location and will not have the ability to be located remotely. This is 1 of 2 roles.

The Insights and Decision Science (IDS) team is dedicated to enabling improved decision making at Novartis by leveraging superior data to identify actionable insights that drive enhanced performance. We collaborate closely with the US business, bringing insights and challenging ideas to empower smarter, data-driven decision-making.

Reporting into the ED, AI and Innovation Data Science, this role is crucial in leading the development and deployment of advanced AI solutions that enhance operational efficiency and drive strategic growth across the organization. This position plays a vital role in integrating AI-driven solutions across various platforms, fostering collaboration between the US commercial team and the India-based data science team. By championing the exploration of cutting-edge AI technologies, the Director ensures that our strategies are informed by the latest advancements in generative AI and large language models (LLMs).

This role will collaborate with other members of the IDS AI and Innovation team members to create, pilot, and scale AI tools to support broader goals of the IDS strategy to transform business processes and outcomes.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the development and deployment of scalable AI solutions, focusing on advanced AI applications across various business units. • Be prepared to engage in hands-on work when necessary to support the team and further our data science initiatives. • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate AI-driven solutions across various platforms and services. • Drive innovation by staying current with advancements in AI, particularly in generative models and LLM technologies. • Champion the exploration and integration of cutting-edge AI technologies, particularly in the field generative AI. • Act as a key liaison between the US commercial team and the India-based data science team. • Stay abreast of state-of-the-art foundation models and other innovative trends in data science and leverage these insights to inform our strategies. • Bring a "can-do" attitude and teamwork and inspire others on culture change. • Acts as an AI role model, championing a culture that embraces cutting-edge AI technologies and encourages experimentation and adoption of best practices.

Experience:

Novartis is seeking an individual with proven experience working with machine learning models. They should have a strong ability to support cross-team development of AI programs. A firm commitment to driving continuous improvement in AI solutions, informed by current innovations, is vital to this role.

Essential Requirements:

Advanced degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Statistics, or related field

Minimum of 10 years of experience in data science, with 6 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry is preferred.

Build and deploy scalable machine learning models using cloud-based services such as AWS and Azure

Strong understanding of deep learning algorithms, foundational/ LLM models, statistics, and recommendation system

Deep knowledge of Large Language Models (LLMs) such as GPT, BERT, Cohere, and their applications in real-world scenarios.

Ability to operate in a hands-on capacity when necessary.

Proficient in programming languages such as Python, Spark, TensorFlow, and PyTorch

Experience with digital channel selection for "next best action"

Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to identify creative solutions to complex problems

Strong ability to effectively communicate and work across different time zones

The pay range for this position at commencement of employment is expected to be between: $194,600.00 and $312,400.00 a year; however, while salary ranges are effective from 1/1/25 through 12/31/25, fluctuations in the job market may necessitate adjustments to pay ranges during this period. Further, final pay determinations will depend on various factors, including, but not limited to geographical location, experience level, knowledge, skills, and abilities. The total compensation package for this position may also include other elements, including a sign-on bonus, restricted stock units, and discretionary awards in addition to a full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits (including 401(k) eligibility and various paid time off benefits, such as vacation, sick time, and parental leave), dependent on the position offered. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment. If hired, employee will be in an "at-will position" and the Company reserves the right to modify base salary (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.