Director, Innovative Research Methods

Join the Centre for Oncology Data Excellence (CODE) as a Director in our Innovative Research Methods (IRM) team. The CODE team is the centre of excellence focused on delivering best in class scientifically rigorous research to support the Evidence Generation organization.  The team does this by focusing on excellence in data analysis, data strategy, biostatistics and medical writing in addition to Innovative Research Methods (IRM). The IRM team is at the forefront of leading thinking on how we generate and communicate evidence using innovative methods to answer important questions using real world data, simplify clinical trials including patient recruitment and follow up. We're looking for a talented individual who can propose and implement innovative research methods to support our NextGen Evidence Generation vision by improving the quality and efficiency of our studies. This role is a phenomenal opportunity to deliver impactful Medical Affairs and real-world evidence research for the AZ oncology portfolio.

Accountabilities/Responsibilities:

As a IRM Director, you will drive key aspects including innovative study design, data access and engagement model, and AI (GenAI) capability with a goal to optimize efficiencies in evidence generation. In addition, piloting innovative capabilities across data, technology, AI, and statistical methods to support efficient evidence generation within the global medical affairs function. You will also be a core member of a team assisting in the creation of a data lake that collates data from all AZ-sponsored research and the development of internal data assets. You will further champion Oncology Medical Affairs NextGen Evidence Generation through enabling capabilities to enhance decentralized study design, early diagnosis and testing, and guideline-concordant care. You will be responsible for developing and implementing research plans to improve the way we conduct, analyse and communicate our diverse research portfolio, leveraging AI and other technologies as applicable.   

Essential Skills/Experience:

• Minimum 5 years’ experience in the pharmaceutical industry with MS degree or doctoral degree (PharmD, MPh, PhD, MD) in health outcomes, epidemiology, statistics and/or related studies.
• Ability to be creative and collaborate on innovative research methods for conducting research.
• Strong expertise in observational and clinical trial research methodology, and ability to leverage technology when appropriate.   
• Significant understanding of study design and research methodologies especially related to interventional and/or non-interventional / observational research.
• Recognized as a subject matter authority with deep technical expertise in methods for real-world research, epidemiology, and HEOR projects.
• Scientific and business expertise in oncology with a strong understanding of key global and regional issues and concerns.
• Proven expertise in analytical, judgment, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong sense of curiosity, agility and innovative thinking.

Desirable Skills/Experience:

• MS or PhD in a scientific discipline
• Strong stakeholder management and communication skills
• Extensive knowledge of the latest technical and new capability landscape for evidence generation

Role Location(s):

• US Gaithersburg
• Canada Mississauga
• Spain Barcelona

The annual base pay for this position ranges from $188,732.80 to $283,099.20 USD. Hourly and salaried non-exempt employees will also be paid overtime pay when working qualifying overtime hours. Base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.  In addition, our positions offer a short-term incentive bonus opportunity; eligibility to participate in our equity-based long-term incentive program (salaried roles), to receive a retirement contribution (hourly roles), and commission payment eligibility (sales roles). Benefits offered included a qualified retirement program [401(k) plan]; paid vacation and holidays; paid leaves; and, health benefits including medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision coverage in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans. Additional details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment. If hired, employee will be in an “at-will position” and the Company reserves the right to modify base pay (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors. 

When we put unexpected teams in the same room, we unleash bold thinking with the power to inspire life-changing medicines. In-person working gives us the platform we need to connect, work at pace and challenge perceptions. That’s why we work, on average, a minimum of three days per week from the office. But that doesn't mean we’re not flexible. We balance the expectation of being in the office while respecting individual flexibility. Join us in our unique and ambitious world.

Why AstraZeneca?

At AstraZeneca's Oncology Business Unit, we change the practice of medicine and improve the patient experience by generating and presenting compelling medical evidence. We translate our wealth of medical and scientific expertise to ensure the data we produce helps physicians to better treat patients at every point in their journey. We are an impactful team within a global, growing organization. Our culture is one of openness and transparency, fused with ambition and drive. We work hard to cultivate a positive environment and support one another. We choose to work together, demonstrating the diversity of our skills and expertise, working seamlessly and inclusively to go further whilst building long-term relationships.

Ready to make a difference? Apply today and join us in our mission to eliminate cancer as a cause of death. Together, we can redefine cancer treatment.

AstraZeneca embraces diversity and equality of opportunity. We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse team representing all backgrounds, with as wide a range of perspectives as possible, and harnessing industry-leading skills. We believe that the more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. We welcome and consider applications to join our team from all qualified candidates, regardless of their characteristics. We comply with all applicable laws and regulations on non-discrimination in employment (and recruitment), as well as work authorisation and employment eligibility verification requirements.