Director of Applied AI Research Data Science (Drug Discovery, Chemistry)

Job Description Summary

The AI & Computational Science (AICS) is the dedicated AI team at Novartis Biomedical Research innovating drug discovery. We aim to accelerate discoveries of transformative medicines for patients worldwide. AI & Computational Science (AICS) is seeking a highly motivated and experienced incoming leader in the domain of AI/Machine Learning for Drug Discovery to push the frontier in drug discovery. At AI & Computational Sciences (AICS), you will take on a leadership role at the intersection of science R&D and real-world impact.

 

Job Description

Key requirements & responsibilities

• Have a deep and broad understanding of AI/machine learning (ML) methods (e.g., Foundation, Diffusion Models; Graph, Geometric, Topological Deep Learning)
• Have extensive experience in applying AI/ML in drug discovery research including in-silico/3D molecule and protein design; ligand-protein binding, retro/synthesis, molecular dynamics, quantum chemistry…etc.
• Lead efforts in AICS surrounding Generative Chemistry
• Take a hands-on role and deliver on highly visible multiple projects
• Serve as an ambassador for AI & Data Sciences at Novartis by presenting and publishing articles
• Actively build and lead engagements with academia, technology, and industry partners (e.g., Microsoft Research)
• Keep ahead of latest developments in the field and mentor associates
• Be a part of a truly unique organization with an inter-disciplinary team made up of highly accomplished scientists who are curious, love to learn, and push the AI frontier in drug discovery

The pay range for this position at commencement of employment is expected to be between $222,400 and $333,600 per 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.

The Novartis Group of Companies are Equal Opportunity Employers and take pride in maintaining a diverse environment. We do not discriminate in recruitment, hiring, training, promotion or other employment practices for reasons of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status. We are committed to building diverse teams, representative of the patients and communities we serve, and we strive to create an inclusive workplace that cultivates bold innovation through collaboration and empowers our people to unleash their full potential.

Further Role Requirements

• An advanced degree (master’s or doctoral) in a quantitative field including but not limited to Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, Astro/Physics, Computational Chemistry, all relevant engineering and science disciplines
• 9+ years of relevant thought leadership/publication track record in machine learning applications and AI/ML methods
• 12+ years of experience in end-to-end analysis for large scale data sets
• Cross-industry experience highly preferred and previous experience in pharma, biotech, or healthcare desired

Why Novartis?
766 million lives were touched by Novartis medicines in 2021, and while we’re proud of this, we know there is so much more we could do to help improve and extend people’s lives.

We believe new insights, perspectives and ground-breaking solutions can be found at the intersection of medical science and digital innovation. That a diverse, equitable and inclusive environment inspires new ways of working.
We believe our potential can thrive and grow in an unbossed culture underpinned by integrity, curiosity and flexibility. And we can reinvent what