Senior Specialist in Data Science, AI & Quantum / Senior Specialistess in Data Science, AI & Quantum

Job ID

REQ-10078899

Summary

Job Title: Senior Specialist Data Science, AI & Quantum

Location: Basel, Switzerland

Relocation Support: This role is based in Basel, Switzerland. Novartis is unable to offer relocation support; please only apply if accessible.

At Novartis, you will help shape the future of drug discovery by exploring how quantum computing and advanced data science can unlock new scientific possibilities. This is a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of innovation, biomedical research, and emerging technology, translating cutting-edge methods into meaningful, testable applications that can accelerate how new medicines are discovered and developed. If you are excited by complex scientific challenges, collaborative problem-solving, and the chance to bring breakthrough computational approaches into real-world research, this role offers the platform to make a lasting impact.

AI4R partners with drug discovery teams, raises the level of AI and computational expertise across BR, and ensures that BR science keeps up with the rapidly evolving ecosystem of AI and advanced computing technologies through engagement with leaders in academia, industry, and technology partners.

This role within the Scientific Innovation group of AI4R will focus on pioneering the application of quantum computing and quantum-inspired methods to high-value problems in drug discovery and development. The successful candidate will bring scientific depth, practical judgment, and collaborative leadership to identify where quantum approaches may create step-change advantage, and how to translate emerging methods into rigorous, testable scientific use cases. Additionally, the role would be expected to act as the SME liaison of AI4R to BR Disease Areas (DAs) and Functional Areas (FAs).

About the Role

Key Responsibilities

• Identify high-impact opportunities for quantum computing in drug discovery and development
• Evaluate quantum and hybrid approaches against established computational methods
• Design and execute scientifically rigorous proof-of-concept studies
• Apply quantum methods to molecular simulation, optimization, and generative design challenges
• Assess maturity, limitations, and practical applicability of quantum technologies
• Translate complex quantum concepts into clear scientific hypotheses and use cases
• Contribute to defining quantum computing strategy for Biomedical Research
• Collaborate with engineering and platform teams to develop reusable workflows and assets
• Act as liaison for quantum initiatives across disease and functional areas
• Promote scientific rigor, reproducibility, and transparency in computational research

Essential Requirements

• Doctoral degree or equivalent experience in quantum computing, physics, computer science, or related quantitative discipline
• Strong understanding of quantum computing algorithms, simulation, and hybrid quantum-classical approaches
• Experience applying advanced computational or machine learning methods to scientific or biomedical problems
• Knowledge of drug discovery domains such as molecular simulation, protein modeling, or pharmacokinetics
• Familiarity with quantum computing tools such as Qiskit, Pennylane, Cirq, or similar platforms
• Experience designing and evaluating proof-of-concept studies with scientific rigor and reproducibility
• Ability to translate complex technical concepts into clear scientific insights and decision frameworks
• Strong collaboration and communication skills across multidisciplinary and external stakeholder groups

Desirable Requirements

• Experience collaborating with academic or industry partners within emerging quantum computing ecosystems
• Familiarity with scaling computational solutions using cloud or high-performance computing environments

Rewards

At Novartis, we are committed to reimagining medicine together - and rewarding the people who make it happen.

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 a minimum of 14 weeks paid parental leave.

Expected Annual Base Salary Range for role:

• Basel: 102,200.00 - 189,800.00 CHF Annual

The 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 will be reviewed periodically upon joining Novartis.

In addition to your base salary, you may be eligible for a performance-based bonus depending on certain performance parameters. Further details will be provided during the application process.

Pay equity is a fundamental principle of our employment policy and reflects our commitment to create a diverse, equitable and inclusive environment that treats all employees with dignity and respect, as outlined in our Code of Ethics.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

Novartis is dedicated to building an outstanding, inclusive work environment and creating diverse teams that are representative of the patients and communities we serve.

Accessibility and Accommodation

Novartis is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to all individuals. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the recruitment process, or to receive more detailed information about the essential functions of a position, please email inclusion.switzerland@novartis.com and share the nature of your request along with your contact information. Please include the job requisition number in your message.

Why Novartis

Helping people with disease and their families takes more than innovative science. It takes a community of smart, passionate people like you—collaborating, supporting, and inspiring each other to achieve breakthroughs that change patients’ lives. Ready to create a brighter future together? Learn more.

How to Apply

Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.