Associate Director, AI Clinical Scientist

Job Summary

The Associate Director, AI Clinical Scientist in the Data Science and AI team will play a pivotal role in leading strategic and technical development and use AI solutions across scientific domains in Otsuka R&D. This technical role requires proficiency in both traditional and generative AI and using those methodologies to accelerate drug development and evidence generation. The role will work closely with stakeholders and cross‑functional teams to support Data Science and AI objectives aligned with Otsuka’s goals.

The Associate Director will also assist in overseeing a team of data or AI scientists, manage resources, provide training, and advise cross‑functional teams on the uses, limitations, and impact of AI and ML. Collaboration with internal and external partners is essential to deliver high‑quality data and analytic products.

• Implement Data Science and AI portfolio objectives and contribute to data and analysis strategies across all phases of drug development, from Discovery and Preclinical to Clinical stages while extensively leveraging AI.
• Identify and apply innovative analytical solutions with a strong focus on adopting novel AI tools, methodologies, and technologies, including machine learning, tokenization, and digital health technologies (DHTs).
• Develop and apply advanced analyses for biological data, including digital sensor data, metabolomics, proteomics and genomics to support new drug development and decision making.
• Investigate and conduct Proof of Concept (PoC) initiatives, and develop solutions for new AI applications using advanced technologies like Large Language Models (LLMs) and Generative AI (Gen‑AI) to enhance data analytics capabilities and accelerate candidates across drug development phases.
• Assess the feasibility and potential impact of integrating Gen‑AI, LLMs, and other small AI models into existing workflows, and recommend adoption strategies based on PoC outcomes.
• Work with cross‑functional teams to support deep scientific data analyses, leverage AI and Gen‑AI capabilities effectively for Otsuka’s drug development portfolio, and evidence generation throughout the drug lifecycle.
• Leverage Gen‑AI and AI/ML applications across the organization, emphasizing their transformative potential in drug development processes, and create awareness and integration of such technologies into R&D processes effectively.
• Develop processes to optimize data and analytics systems and their execution, ensuring alignment with cutting‑edge technological advancements.
• Guide the scientific and technical evaluation, selection, and planning of analysis for transitional and digital biomarkers, along with the data generated in clinical trials.
• Lead the planning, development, and implementation of data science solutions that leverage novel AI methodologies.
• Guide team members on AI and other methodologies and foster a culture of innovation and collaborative success.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to identify opportunities for innovation and experimentation with emerging technologies in data science and analytics.
• Serve as a subject matter expert, ensuring effective awareness, communication, and collaboration to achieve portfolio success.
• Remain current with industry trends and advancements in AI/ML, providing insights to influence the organization’s technical roadmap and strategy.
• Build a strong presence both internally and externally through publications in relevant and reputable conferences and journals.

• 5+ years of experience in AI and advanced data sciences within the pharmaceutical or Bio‑Tech R&D industries.
• Expertise in scientific data analyses in drug development and real‑world data assets, using them to explore biomarkers, endpoints, and value evidence.
• Proficiency in AI, Gen‑AI, and machine learning techniques and relevant tools (e.g., PyTorch, Tensor Flow, LLMs and related technologies).
• Expertise in digital health technologies and their applications in pharmaceutical research.
• Strong project management skills with a focus on delivering impactful initiatives.

• Accountability for Results – Stay focused on key…