Senior Director, Epidemiologist in London

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.

Location: London (The Westworks), United Kingdom

Hybrid (12 days per month on-site if living within 50 miles of our London office)

Remote (if living beyond 50 miles of our London office)

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

Major accountabilities:

• 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 strengthen 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 patient safety in 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: July 17th 2026. We will begin reviewing applications after the posting closes, and we’ll be in touch with an update soon after.

Benefits & Rewards:

At Novartis, we’re committed to reimagining medicine together - and rewarding the people who make it happen. Expected Annual Base Salary Range for role: GB £83,510 - £155,090. The base 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. 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 minimum 14 weeks paid parental leave.

In addition to your base salary, you may be eligible for a performance-based bonus depending on certain performance parameters. Long-term equity awards granted at group level may also be part of your package. Further details will be provided during the application process.

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 & 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.