Senior Director, Epidemiologist

Job Description 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.

 

Job Description

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. 

 

Skills Desired

Clinical Research, Clinical Trials, Regulatory Compliance, Safety Science, Team Management