Principal Real World Data Scientist

Roche seeks a Principal Real World Data Scientist in Basel to lead complex RWD studies, drive analytical strategy, and mentor teams within the Computational Medicine unit.

This senior scientific role sits within the Real World Data Insights team, which is part of the Computational Sciences Centre of Excellence. The position exists to help Roche’s Research and Early Development units become more data-driven by delivering world-leading real-world data analytical capabilities at scale.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute complex real-world data studies to deepen understanding of disease biology and inform biomarker strategies.
• Integrate diverse data sources such as electronic health records, claims, and registries using advanced analytical methods.
• Optimize study designs, patient eligibility criteria, and endpoint strategies to improve research outcomes.
• Act as a strategic partner to senior stakeholders, translating complex findings into actionable decisions.
• Contribute to the broader scientific and technical strategy while establishing best practices for real-world data analysis.
• Mentor team members, develop talent, and set methodological standards for scalable analytical solutions.
• Lead data analyses that guide investment and clinical decisions across early-phase programs.
• Ensure all outputs are reproducible, statistically rigorous, and built on reusable frameworks.
• Utilize real-world data to optimize Phase I/II settings through cohort definition, endpoint exploration, and external control arms.
• Combine real-world data with biomarker and omics data to map patient trajectories and support personalized treatment approaches.
• Serve as a scientific liaison between data functions and clinical stakeholders to align evidence generation with portfolio priorities.

Requirements

• PhD in Epidemiology, Biostatistics, Data Science, Bioinformatics, or a related field.
• At least three years of experience applying real-world data analysis in pharmaceutical R&D or healthcare.
• Deep hands-on expertise in real-world data analysis with a focus on early development applications.
• Strong understanding of disease biology and clinical development processes.
• Proven ability to connect data insights to decision-making.
• Solid programming skills in R and/or Python.
• Advanced AI/ML literacy.
• Applied biostatistics expertise.
• Strong expertise in data integration and visualization.
• Deep familiarity with real-world data sources (e.g., EHR, claims, registries) and their strengths, limitations, and appropriate use.

Nice to have

• Demonstrable evidence of contributing to high-performing and multidisciplinary teams.
• Experience mentoring and developing others.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to translate complex analyses into clear, actionable insights for diverse audiences.
• Demonstrated ability to build collaborative, trust-based relationships across functions and within the broader corporate ecosystem.

About the company

Roche is a global company with more than 100,000 employees dedicated to advancing science. The mission is to prevent, stop, and cure diseases while ensuring everyone has access to healthcare today and for generations to come. The team is united by a mission to transform science into medicines, empowering talented people to bring forward extraordinary life-changing innovation at speed.

• The culture encourages personal expression, open dialogue, and genuine connections, where employees are valued, accepted, and respected.
• The culture is defined by curiosity, responsibility, and humility.
• The company empowers employees to explore new possibilities, foster creativity, and keep ambitions high.