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 is a technical role that requires proficiency in both traditional and generative AI and leveraging those methodologies to advance and accelerate drug development and evidence generation and Otsuka. The role will work closely with stakeholders and cross-functional teams to support Data Science and AI objectives in alignment with Otsuka's goals. The ideal candidate will be an expert in AI and contribute to initiatives that enable novel evidence generation through expertise in biomarkers, including omics and digital health technologies (DHT), as well as clinical and real-world data (RWD). Additionally, the candidate will have strong skills in computational data analysis, artificial intelligence, and mathematical modeling, with an emphasis on applying machine learning and AI methodologies. The Associate Director, AI Clinical Scientist may also assist in overseeing a team of data or AI scientists, managing resources, providing trainings, advising cross-functional teams on the uses, limitations, and impact of AI and ML, and collaborating with internal and external partners to deliver high-quality data and analytic products. Job Description Implement Data Science and AI portfolio objectives and contribute to the development of data and analyses 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). Development and application of novel 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 to advance and effectively 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’ drug development portfolio, evidence generation efforts throughout the drug lifecycle. Leverage Gen AI and AI/ML applications across the organization, emphasizing their transformative potential in drug development processes. 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. Qualifications/ Required Knowledge/ Experience and Skills: 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 and using them to explore biomarkers, endpoints, and scientific or value evidence Proficiency in AI, Gen AI, and machine learning techniques and relevant tools (e.g., pytorch, TensorFlow, LLMs and related technologies to do analyses and analytics). Expertise in digital health technologies and their applications in pharmaceutical research Strong project management skills with a focus on delivering impactful initiatives. Competencies Accountability for Results - Stay focused on key strategic objectives, be accountable for high standards of performance, and take an active role in leading change. Strategic Thinking & Problem Solving - Make decisions considering the long-term impact to customers, patients, employees, and the business. Patient & Customer Centricity - Maintain an ongoing focus on the needs of our customers and/or key stakeholders. Impactful Communication - Communicate with logic, clarity, and respect. Influence at all levels to achieve the best results for Otsuka. Respectful Collaboration - Seek and value others’ perspectives and strive for diverse partnerships to enhance work toward common goals. Empowered Development - Play an active role in professional development as a business imperative. Minimum $169,222.00 - Maximum $253,000.00, plus incentive opportunity: The range shown represents a typical pay range or starting pay for individuals who are hired in the role to perform in the United States. Other elements may be used to determine actual pay such as the candidate’s job experience, specific skills, and comparison to internal incumbents currently in role. Typically, actual pay will be positioned within the established range, rather than at its minimum or maximum. This information is provided to applicants in accordance with states and local laws. Application Deadline: This will be posted for a minimum of 5 business days. Company benefits: Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, prescription drug coverage, company provided basic life, accidental death & dismemberment, short-term and long-term disability insurance, tuition reimbursement, student loan assistance, a generous 401(k) match, flexible time off, paid holidays, and paid leave programs as well as other company provided benefits. Come discover more about Otsuka and our benefit offerings; Disclaimer: This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed by the people assigned to this position. It is not intended to include every job duty and responsibility specific to the position. Otsuka reserves the right to amend and change responsibilities to meet business and organizational needs as necessary. Otsuka is an equal opportunity employer. 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Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. is a global healthcare company with the corporate philosophy: “Otsuka–people creating new products for better health worldwide.” In the U.S., Otsuka is comprised of two companies, Otsuka America Pharmaceutical, Inc., and Otsuka Pharmaceutical Development & Commercialization, Inc., that share a deep commitment to the development and commercialization of innovative products in the spaces of neuroscience, nephrology, and digital medicine. Driven by our purpose to defy limitation, so that others can too, we have an unwavering belief in doing more and transcending expectations. In going above and beyond—under any circumstances—for patients, families, providers, and for each other. It’s this deep-rooted dedication that drives us to uncover answers to complex, underserved medical needs, so that patients can push past the limitations of their disease and achieve more than they thought was possible each and every day. OPDC and OAPI are indirect subsidiaries of Otsuka Pharmaceutical Company, Ltd., which is a subsidiary of Otsuka Holdings Co., Ltd. headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. The Otsuka group of companies employed 34,400 people worldwide and had consolidated sales of approximately USD 14.2 billion in 2023. We invite you to explore our open positions for an opportunity to join our 2,200 colleagues in the U.S. whose passion for our mission and pride in our company have earned us certification as a Great Place to Work by the Great Place to Work Institute.