Director​/Executive Director, Modeling & Simulation; Dual Level

Job Description Summary #LI-Hybrid Internal

Title:

Executive Director / Director

Location:

Cambridge, MA Novartis is a leader in mechanistic modelling and simulation. We are seeking an experienced modelling and simulation leader to build and lead a high-impact team focused on multiscale disease modelling to support portfolio decision making across the Novartis  this role, you will partner with PKS M&S, Therapeutic Areas, and multidisciplinary teams to develop and apply quantitative disease models that inform portfolio strategy, prioritisation, and key development decisions.

You will contribute to departmental strategy, drive innovation in disease modelling approaches, and ensure the proactive use of modelling insights to shape programs from discovery through clinical development.

This role reports to the Global Head of Modeling & Simulation (M&S) within Translational Medicine in Biomedical Research.

Job Description

Key responsibilities:

Lead and develop a high-performing team focused on disease modelling, including recruitment, coaching, performance management, and talent development.

Define and execute disease modelling strategies aligned with portfolio priorities, ensuring 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.

Drive portfolio-level impact, including modelling to support target selection, indication prioritisation, competitive differentiation, and probability of technical success.

Collaborate with PKS and TM leadership to shape scientific priorities and ensure alignment with broader M&S and organisational strategy.

Establish and evolve modelling platforms, workflows, and best practices that can be leveraged across disease areas and programs.

Integrate diverse data sources (preclinical, clinical, omics, and external data) to enable robust, predictive disease models.

Lead or contribute to cross-functional initiatives that advance modelling capabilities, including adoption of innovative approaches (e.g., AI-enabled methods, digital twins where relevant).Drive scientific excellence and continuous improvement, ensuring use of state-of-the-art methodologies and strengthening disease modelling capabilities across the organisation.

Influence internal and external stakeholders, including contributions to scientific publications, consortia, and collaborations that enhance Novartis leadership in disease modelling.

Essential requirements Ph.D. in biology, bioengineering, pharmaceutical sciences, biophysics, or a related field.
10+ (Director) - 15+ (Executive Director) years of relevant postdoctoral, academic, industry, or government experience with a track record as a leader and individual contributor in one or more of the following fields:
Disease Modeling, Pathway Modeling, Quantitative Pharmacology, Systems Pharmacology, Mechanistic Modeling.

Demonstrated leadership experience, including building and developing teams and delivering through both direct reports and matrix environments. Extensive leadership experience required for Executive Director level (8+ years).Proven experience applying mechanistic or systems-level disease models to inform portfolio or program decisions.

Strong understanding of drug discovery and development, and how modelling informs key transitions from discovery to clinical development.

Experience influencing strategy through contributions to governance discussions, cross-functional teams, or scientific leadership initiatives.

Ability to translate complex modelling outputs into clear, actionable insights for decision-makers.

Track record of driving scientific…