Associate Director in Data Science, Digital Endpoints Pharma R & D (Billerica MA)

Merck Group$131K — $249K *
Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • PhD in quantitative discipline (data science, computer science, biomedical engineering, statistics, physics) with large-scale data analysis focus.
  • Minimum 7 years of experience in pharmaceuticals, digital endpoints, AI/ML, or related industry.
  • Proven track record in designing and validating digital endpoints or biomarkers for clinical applications.
  • Experience in processing and analyzing large-scale data from digital health technologies (wearables, sensors, smartphones).
  • Expertise in digital biomarker/endpoint development with strong knowledge of psychometric and statistical validation.

Responsibilities

  • Lead the development and deployment of digital biomarkers and endpoints in clinical trials.
  • Collaborate on the design and validation of machine learning algorithms for digital health data.
  • Develop advanced machine learning methods to process multimodal time-series data.
  • Embed digital health technologies within evidence generation strategies for clinical trials.
  • Contribute to regulatory filings and advocate for digital endpoint adoption in R&D community.
  • Explore and integrate emerging AI paradigms for supporting data interpretation and automation.
  • Champion transformation efforts to maximize Digital Health Technologies' potential.

Benefits

  • Health insurance coverage.
  • Paid time off (PTO) for a work-life balance.
  • Retirement contributions to support future security.
  • Additional perks related to performance and workplace environment.
Full Job Description
Your Role:

In this pivotal role, you will build and establish scientific excellence in the development of digital biomarkers and endpoints within the Advanced Data Science team in the Data Sciences organization. You will lead the identification, development, and deployment of novel digital endpoints and outcome measures across clinical trials and life cycle management programs. Collaborating closely with the Integrated Health & Medicines organization, you will spearhead the design and validation of machine learning-driven algorithms and data processing pipelines that extract clinically relevant insights from high-volume digital health data sources, such as wearables, sensors and apps, mobile devices, and patient-facing applications.

You will develop and implement advanced machine learning and data science methods to process multimodal time-series data generated by digital devices, ensuring scientific rigor, clinical validity, and regulatory readiness. As a subject matter expert, you will embed digital health technologies within evidence generation strategies, driving their acceptance in clinical trials and practice.

You will also contribute to key regulatory filings and publications, advocating for the adoption of digital endpoints within the global R&D community. Staying at the forefront of emerging trends, you will explore and integrate emerging AI paradigms, including large language models (LLMs) and agentic AI systems, to support data interpretation, workflow automation, and digital health analytics. Your leadership will champion transformation efforts that unlock the full potential of Digital Health Technologies.

Who you are:

Minimum Qualifications:
  • You hold a PhD in a quantitative discipline (e.g., data science, computer science, biomedical engineering, statistics, physics, or related field) with a focus on large-scale data analysis.
  • You have a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in the pharmaceutical, digital endpoints, AI/ML or related industry.
  • You possess a proven track record in designing and validating digital endpoints or biomarkers for clinical applications.
  • You have hands-on experience processing and analyzing large-scale data streams from digital health technologies, including wearables, sensors, smartphones, or connected medical devices. You have experience in building machine learning pipelines for time-series and multimodal sensor data, including feature extraction, signal processing, and model development.
  • You have strong expertise in digital biomarker/endpoint development, including psychometric and statistical validation and regulatory aspects.
  • You have solid understanding of modern machine learning and AI methods (e.g., deep learning, representation learning, time-series modeling) as applied to digital health and behavioral data.
  • You have experience with scalable data processing and ML frameworks (e.g., Python data ecosystem, distributed data processing, or cloud/HPC environments).


  • You have familiarity with generative AI and large language models, and an interest in emerging paradigms such as agentic LLM systems or AI-assisted scientific workflows.


Preferred Qualifications:
  • You possess excellent stakeholder management skills and can navigate matrixed organizations effectively.
  • You have strong communication and scientific writing skills, enabling you to translate complex technical content for diverse audiences.

Location: On-site Billerica MA

Pay Range for this position: $131,300 - $249,100

The offer range represents the anticipated low and high end of the base pay compensation for this position. The actual compensation offered will be determined by factors such as location, level of experience, education, skills, and other job-related factors. Position may be eligible for sales or performance-based bonuses. Benefits offered by the Company include health insurance, paid time off (PTO), retirement contributions, and other perquisites. For more information click here.

About Merck Group

Merck Group Careers

There has never been a more opportune time to join Merck Group, a leading science and technology company in healthcare, life science, and performance materials. Merck Group offers a plethora of job opportunities that cater to a variety of skills and professional aspirations, making it an ideal environment for both seasoned experts and those at the start of their career journey.

Work You’ll Do

At Merck Group, every team member contributes to breakthrough innovations in healthcare, life sciences, and electronics. The company's commitment to diversity and innovation fuels its leadership in various sectors, driving growth and transformation globally. Merck Group’s career paths are diverse, offering positions that challenge individuals to use their skills in new ways every day, supported by robust training programs and development opportunities.

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Merck Group is not just about jobs; it's about building a career. With a vast array of positions, from research and development to marketing and sales, the company is keen on hiring and nurturing talent to lead industry transformation. Merck Group’s dedication to professional growth is evident in its comprehensive benefits package and performance management processes that aim to maximize individual potential.

Internship Programs

Starting with an internship at Merck Group can be a pivotal step in securing a prosperous career. Interns gain invaluable industry experience, working alongside seasoned professionals and engaging in projects that offer real-world applications of their studies. Internships often lead to full-time employment opportunities, providing a seamless transition from education to professional employment.

Inclusive Culture and Leadership

Merck Group is proud of its inclusive culture that embraces diversity and fosters an environment where all employees can thrive. The company’s leadership is committed to creating a workplace where diverse ideas lead to innovative outcomes. Merck Group also offers diversity training to ensure all team members are equipped to contribute to the company’s inclusive goals.

Networking and Professional Development

Employees at Merck Group are encouraged to engage in networking and professional development activities that enhance their career trajectories. The company hosts various networking events, workshops, and seminars that are designed to hone skills and foster connections within the industry. Leadership development programs are also a cornerstone, preparing employees for future roles of increased responsibility.

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Interested candidates can explore open positions that match their skills and interests through the Merck Group careers page. The company values curious, creative, and solution-driven team players who are eager to make an impact.

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