Senior Director, Epidemiologist

Summary

This is a seat at the table where science becomes strategy.

As Senior Director Epidemiologist in the Quantitative Safety & Epidemiology Team, you will define and drive global epidemiology direction across multiple oncology programs, shaping benefit-risk decisions from development through post-approval.

You will lead engagements with senior stakeholders and health authorities, turning complex evidence into bold, defensible positions that advance patient safety and strengthen Novartis’ scientific reputation.

About the Role

Location: Basel, Switzerland

Working Model: Hybrid (12 days per month on-site)

#LI-Hybrid 

Relocation Support: Novartis is unable to offer relocation support - please only apply if this location is accessible to you

Key Responsibilities:

• Define and drive global epidemiology oncology-focused strategies across multiple programs and indications throughout the full product lifecycle
• Lead evidence generation safety strategies to inform benefit-risk decisions, regulatory submissions, and post-approval commitments
• Act as a senior scientific leader in cross-functional teams, influencing global program and safety management decisions
• Represent epidemiology in high-impact interactions with health authorities, including advisory committees and regulatory discussions
• Translate complex epidemiological data into clear, actionable insights for senior leadership and external stakeholders
• Design and oversee innovative study approaches, including non-interventional studies and real-world evidence generation
• Foster strategic collaborations with external researchers, data partners, and academic institutions
• Drive excellence in deliverables by ensuring quality, compliance, and adherence to regulatory and organizational standards
• Lead and mentor junior epidemiologists, to help build high-performing teams and strengthening scientific capabilities
• Champion innovation by advancing cutting-edge epidemiological methods and driving global improvement initiatives

Essential Requirements:

• Advanced degree (Masters or PhD) in epidemiology, statistics, or health services research
• Minimum 10–12 years of relevant experience in epidemiology within the pharmaceutical or healthcare industry
• Fluent English, both written and spoken, with strong scientific communication skills
• Expert knowledge of epidemiological principles and their application to drug development and safety assessment
• Proven experience designing, conducting, and interpreting epidemiological studies and real-world evidence
• Strong understanding of drug development processes and regulatory requirements, including health authority interactions
• Demonstrated leadership experience influencing strategy and decision-making within global, cross-functional environments
• Strong innovation mindset with a track record of advancing methodologies, processes, or scientific approaches

Desirable Skills

• Experience supporting oncology programs within the pharmaceutical or healthcare industry is preferred 
• Proficiency in an additional local language relevant to the hiring location
• Strong track record of scientific publications and external engagement

Closing date for applications: June 7th 2026

We will begin reviewing applications during the week of June 8th, and we’ll be in touch with an update soon after.

Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion: 

Novartis is committed to building an outstanding, inclusive work environment and diverse teams representative of the patients and communities we serve. 

Accessibility and accommodation : 

Novartis is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to all individuals. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the recruitment process, or in order to receive more detailed information about the essential functions of a position, please send an e-mail to E-Mail auf novartis.com ansehen and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Please include the job requisition number in your message.  

Why Novartis: Helping people with disease and their families takes more than innovative science. It takes a community of smart, passionate people like you. Collaborating, supporting and inspiring each other. Combining to achieve breakthroughs that change patients’ lives. Ready to create a brighter future together?

Benefits and Rewards: Learn about all the ways we’ll help you thrive personally and professionally.
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