Principal Data Scientist

The Opportunity

This position will focus on delivering world‑leading real‑world data (RWD) analytical capabilities  will play a senior scientific role within the Real World Data Insights team in Computational Medicine. Together with other real‑world data experts and collaboration partners, you will lead the design and execution of complex, high‑impact RWD studies, improving our understanding of disease biology, informing biomarker strategies and generating actionable insights into patient populations and treatment outcome prediction.

You will drive the integration of diverse real‑world data sources (e.g., EHR, claims, registries, and linked datasets) and apply advanced analytical approaches to inform clinical development decisions. You will influence and optimize study designs, patient eligibility criteria, and endpoint strategies, ensuring that RWD is effectively leveraged across the drug development lifecycle. You will operate as a trusted strategic partner to senior stakeholders, translating complex analytical findings into impactful decisions.

As part of the Computational Biology and Medicine department, you will contribute to the broader scientific and technical strategy, drawing on global expertise and driving best practices in RWD analysis. You will also play a key role in mentoring and developing talent, and establishing methodological standards and scalable analytical solutions.

The Real World Data Insights team is collectively accountable for delivering critical insights for the portfolio. Your success is measured not only by your individual contributions but by your ability to lead, influence, and drive impact across teams and the broader organization, delivering high‑value insights for the portfolio and ultimately for patients.

• Lead the design and execution of complex data analyses to guide investment and clinical decisions across early‑phase programs.
• Ensure all RWD outputs are reproducible, statistically rigorous, and built using scalable, reusable analytical frameworks.
• Utilize RWD to optimize Phase I/II settings through cohort definition, endpoint exploration, and the development of external control arms.
• Combine RWD with biomarker and omics data to map patient trajectories and enable targeted, personalized treatment approaches.
• Act as a technical and scientific lead to develop junior talent and foster a high‑performing, collaborative research culture.
• Serve as a trusted scientific liaison between data functions and clinical stakeholders to align evidence generation with portfolio priorities.

A PhD in Epidemiology, Biostatistics, Data Science, Bioinformatics, or a related field with 3+ years of experience applying real‑world data analysis in pharmaceutical R&D or healthcare is required.

• Deep, hands‑on expertise in real‑world data analysis, with a strong focus on delivering impactful insights in early development applications, and a strong understanding of disease biology and clinical development.
• Proven ability to connect data insights to decision‑making.
• Solid programming skills in R and/or Python, advanced AI/ML literacy, applied biostatistics, and strong expertise in data integration and visualisation.
• Deep familiarity with real‑world data sources (e.g., EHR, claims, registries) and their strengths, limitations, and appropriate use in different research contexts.
• Demonstrable evidence of contributing to high‑performing and multidisciplinary teams, and experience mentoring and developing others.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to translate complex analyses into clear, actionable insights for diverse audiences.
• Demonstrated ability to build collaborative, trust‑based relationships across functions and within the broader corporate ecosystem.

Unwavering focus, collaborative teamwork, and exceptional delivery are key behaviors that drive our mission of doing now what patients need next.

Roche is an Equal Opportunity Employer.