Head Clinical AI Strategy - Translational Research

Novartis seeks a Head Clinical AI Strategy in Basel, CH, to lead AI integration in early clinical development. The role requires a strong scientific and data science background, with 10+ years in pharma, to drive strategic AI initiatives and deliver decision-enabling solutions for Translational Medicine.

This role leads the strategic direction and execution of Data Science and AI initiatives in early clinical development. It serves as a key integrator between scientific leadership and data science teams, translating complex clinical needs into actionable AI strategies that support Translational Medicine and Biomedical Research. The position ensures alignment of scientific questions, data methodologies, and operational execution to deliver high-value, decision-supporting AI solutions.

Responsibilities

• Act as a liaison between scientific leaders and data science teams to define and clarify key research questions into feasible AI applications.
• Discover and develop high-impact AI opportunities in early clinical development for prioritization and advancement.
• Support governance and decision-making by preparing materials, facilitating discussions, and presenting proposals to stakeholders.
• For approved projects, collaborate with clinical teams to create delivery plans and oversee execution and evaluation with the project team.
• Lead the development of the BR Clinical Design Lab to enable scalable, process-optimized deployment of data-driven and AI solutions across clinical teams at key decision points.
• Establish and monitor impact metrics and KPIs to measure value at both trial and program levels.
• Work with Data & Digital, Data Science, and enterprise partners to assess and improve data availability for clinical AI initiatives.
• Evaluate AI startups and technology vendors to identify innovative methods and recommend strategic partnerships to enhance AI capabilities.
• Drive adoption of AI-driven processes through change management and organization-wide education.
• Represent Novartis internally and externally as a leader in Data Science and AI innovation.
• Provide strategic guidance to clinical leadership in Biomedical Research and Novartis on AI integration, scientific value, and emerging trends.

Requirements

• Advanced degree (PhD, MD, MSc) in a relevant scientific field.
• PhD or equivalent experience in Data Science, Computer Science, or related field is preferred.
• Fluent English skills, both spoken and written.
• Minimum 10 years of experience in pharmaceutical environments, including Data Science projects.
• Proven success in delivering global healthcare solutions at scale, with preference for drug development experience.
• Experience combining scientific, data science, and operational perspectives in R&D, including defining KPIs and ROI frameworks.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and execute digital or AI strategy in complex, matrixed organizations, ideally in life sciences or pharmaceutical R&D, with strong knowledge of AI/ML in biomedical contexts.
• Current understanding of digital, AI, and data science trends in Pharma or Healthcare, including aligning internal capabilities with external developments.
• Strong stakeholder engagement, influence, and communication skills, with the ability to lead organizational change and collaboration.
• Strategic mindset capable of translating broad goals into actionable steps with measurable outcomes.

Nice to have

• PhD or equivalent experience in Data Science, Computer Science, or related field.

About the company

Novartis is committed to inclusive practices and provides reasonable accommodations to all individuals to support their participation in the workplace.

• Commitment to reasonable accommodations for all individuals.