Director / Executive Director, Modeling & Simulation

About the role

Novartis, a leader in mechanistic modelling and simulation, is looking for an experienced modelling and simulation leader to build and lead a team focused on multiscale disease modelling that supports portfolio decision making across its pipeline. The role partners with PKS M&S, Therapeutic Areas and multidisciplinary teams to develop quantitative disease models that inform strategy, prioritisation and development decisions. It reports to the Global Head of Modeling & Simulation within Translational Medicine in Biomedical Research. This is a hybrid role with an average of 12 days a month on site in Cambridge, MA.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and develop a high-performing disease modelling team, including recruitment, coaching, performance management and talent development.
• Define and execute disease modelling strategies aligned with portfolio priorities, so models address key decision questions across discovery and development.
• Develop and apply mechanistic disease models (e.g. QSP, systems biology, integrative PK/PD-disease frameworks) to understand disease progression, variability and response to intervention.
• Support portfolio-level impact such as target selection, indication prioritisation, competitive differentiation and probability of technical success.
• Collaborate with PKS and TM leadership to shape scientific priorities and align with M&S and organisational strategy.
• Establish and evolve modelling platforms, workflows and best practices across disease areas and programs.
• Integrate preclinical, clinical, omics and external data to build robust, predictive models.
• Contribute to cross-functional initiatives, including AI-enabled methods and digital twins where relevant.
• Influence internal and external stakeholders, including scientific publications, consortia and collaborations.

Required profile

• Ph.D. in biology, bioengineering, pharmaceutical sciences, biophysics or a related field.
• 10+ years (Director) or 15+ years (Executive Director) of relevant postdoctoral, academic, industry or government experience as a leader and individual contributor in disease modeling, pathway modeling, quantitative pharmacology, systems pharmacology or mechanistic modeling.
• Demonstrated leadership experience building teams and delivering in direct reports and matrix environments; extensive leadership experience required for Executive Director (8+ years).
• Experience applying mechanistic or systems-level disease models to inform portfolio or program decisions.
• Strong understanding of drug discovery and development, and of how modelling informs transitions from discovery to clinical development.
• Track record of scientific innovation, including new methodologies, platforms or modelling approaches.
• Established credibility in the M&S or quantitative pharmacology community (publications, collaborations or scientific leadership).
• Fluency in English (oral and written).

Required skills

• Ability to translate complex modelling outputs into clear, actionable insights for decision-makers.
• Strong collaboration and stakeholder engagement across scientific and clinical disciplines.
• Excellent communication with technical and non-technical audiences.

What we offer

• Expected salary range of $176,400-$327,600 per year for Director and $225,400-$418,600 per year for Executive Director, depending on skills and experience.
• Performance-based cash incentive and possible eligibility for annual equity awards.
• Benefits including health, life and disability coverage, a 401(k) with company contribution and match, and a time-off package.