Associate Director and Senior Principal, AI Methods, AI for Research (AI4R)

Job Title: Associate Director and Senior Principal, AI Methods, AI for Research (AI4R)#LI-HybridLocation: Basel, SwitzerlandRelocation Support: This role is based in Basel, Switzerland. Novartis is unable to offer relocation support: please only apply if accessible.Shape the future of drug discovery through cutting-edge artificial intelligence. As a leader in the AI Methods group within AI for Research (AI4R), you will drive the development of advanced machine learning approaches that unlock new insights across the biomedical research pipeline. From identifying novel therapeutic targets to accelerating clinical translation, your work will directly contribute to delivering innovative medicines faster. This is a unique opportunity to combine deep technical expertise with scientific curiosity, collaborate with world-class researchers, and redefine how AI transforms healthcare.Key ResponsibilitiesLead matrixed teams to design and deliver robust, scalable machine learning solutions for drug discoveryDrive development of core machine learning capabilities across priority AI use cases in biomedical researchIdentify opportunities for methodological innovation across the end-to-end drug discovery pipelineBuild advanced algorithms, models, and workflows to accelerate therapeutic discovery and developmentEstablish and manage strategic collaborations with leading academic and external research partnersAct as subject matter expert on state-of-the-art machine learning approaches across research domainsTranslate complex model outputs into actionable scientific hypotheses and guide experimental designDefine and implement meaningful success metrics for AI models to ensure measurable research impactCollaborate across multidisciplinary teams to align AI solutions with scientific and business objectivesPromote awareness and adoption of advanced AI methods within the broader research organizationEssential Requirements6+ years of experience in developing and deploying machine learning solutions across drug discovery domainsHands-on expertise applying machine learning to target identification, protein modelling, or translational researchStrong experience with large-scale model training, high performance computing, and cloud-based infrastructureAdvanced knowledge of modern machine learning methods such as representation learning or neural network architecturesProficiency in Python and deep learning frameworks, with strong software development and version control practicesDemonstrated ability to drive innovation and deliver impactful machine learning solutions in complex, matrixed environmentsDesirable RequirementsDemonstrated contributions through publications, patents, or open-source projects in advanced machine learning researchExperience with multimodal or foundation models applied to biomedical data such as imaging, genomics, or molecular structuresRewardsAt Novartis, we’re committed to reimagining medicine together - and rewarding the people who make it happen.The rewards of being part of our team go far beyond base pay and incentives. We also offer a variety of competitive benefits in kind to help you thrive personally and professionally, such as insurance plans, retirement plans, wellbeing resources and global recognition programs. In addition, we provide flexible and hybrid working options, where possible, and a minimum of 14 weeks paid parental leave.Expected Annual Base Salary Range for role:Basel: 129,500.00 - 240,500.00 CHF AnnualThe salary offered is determined based on gender-neutral objectives, such as relevant skills, competencies and experience in accordance with the Novartis pay setting policy and upon joining Novartis will be reviewed periodically.In addition to your base salary, you may be eligible for a performance-based bonus depending on certain performance parameters. Further details will be provided during the application process.Pay equity is a fundamental principle of our employment policy and reflects our commitment to create a diverse, equitable and inclusive environment that treats all employees with dignity and respect, as outlined in our Code of Ethics.Read our brochure to learn more about our global total rewards offering: https://www.novartis.com/sites/novartis_com/files/novartis-life-handbook.pdf Note: Benefits and compensation may vary by country and are subject to local legal requirements, including provisions of collective bargaining agreements where applicable. A full overview of your compensation package, including any relevant collective bargaining agreement details applicable to your role based on your employment location and Novartis employer entity, will be communicated separately to you during the application process.    Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion / EEO paragraph:Novartis is committed to building an outstanding, inclusive work environment and diverse teams’ representative of the patients and communities we serve.Accessibility and AccommodationNovartis 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 to receive more detailed information about the essential functions of a position, please email inclusion.switzerland@novartis.com and share the nature of your request along with your contact information. Please include the job requisition number in your message.