Summary
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 diversity.inclusion_ch@novartis.com 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? https://www.novartis.com/about/strategy/people-and-culture
Benefits and Rewards: Learn about all the ways we’ll help you thrive personally and professionally.
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