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Clinical Data Science Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Clinical Data Scientist

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

Fluency in Python and its essential data science tools (numpy, pandas). * Demonstrated experience in collaborative software development. * Experience with clinical datasets in applied machine ...

Clinical Data Scientist

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$132K - $226K/yr

This role sits at the intersection of data science and clinical research, requiring expertise in data cleaning, transformation, and statistical programming (R, Python, SQL) to generate reports and ...

Fluency in Python and its essential data science tools (numpy, pandas). * Demonstrated experience in collaborative software development. * Experience with clinical datasets in applied machine ...

This position exists to advance the organization's AI/ML and data science capabilities across clinical development - collaborating with Statistical Programming, Clinical Data Management, and Clinical ...

This position exists to advance the organization's AI/ML and data science capabilities across clinical development - collaborating with Statistical Programming, Clinical Data Management, and Clinical ...

This position exists to advance the organization's AI/ML and data science capabilities across clinical development - collaborating with Statistical Programming, Clinical Data Management, and Clinical ...

About Karius Karius is a life science, venture-backed clinical metagenomics company, focused on ... Position Summary The Sr. Clinical Data Scientist will serve as the primary data architect for ...

About Karius Karius is a life science, venture-backed clinical metagenomics company, focused on ... Position Summary The Sr. Clinical Data Scientist will serve as the primary data architect for ...

About Karius Karius is a life science, venture-backed clinical metagenomics company, focused on ... Position Summary The Sr. Clinical Data Scientist will serve as the primary data architect for ...

Lead Data Scientist

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$200K - $225K/yr

This is a highly strategic and hands-on role at the intersection of data science, product, and clinical operations. As Onos' lead data scientist, you'll own the development of our core analytics and ...

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Clinical Data Science information

See California salary details

$19

$56

$80

How much do clinical data science jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for clinical data science in California is $56.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44.62 and $67.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can data scientists make $300k?

Clinical data scientists can potentially earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills in machine learning and statistical analysis, and work in high-paying industries like pharmaceuticals or biotech. Salaries vary based on location, education, and the complexity of projects handled.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Clinical Data Scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Clinical Data Scientist, you need a solid background in statistics, data analysis, and life sciences, often supported by a degree in biostatistics, computer science, or a related field. Familiarity with programming languages like Python or R, clinical trial data management systems, and knowledge of regulatory requirements such as GCP and CDISC standards are essential. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help you interpret complex data and collaborate with clinical and research teams. These competencies are crucial for ensuring data integrity, regulatory compliance, and valuable insights that drive evidence-based healthcare decisions.

What are the typical collaborative interactions between Clinical Data Scientists and other departments in a healthcare or pharmaceutical organization?

Clinical Data Scientists regularly collaborate with clinical research associates, statisticians, data managers, and regulatory affairs teams. These interactions are essential for ensuring high-quality data collection, analysis, and interpretation throughout clinical trials. You may participate in cross-functional meetings, contribute to protocol development, and help design data management strategies that comply with regulatory standards. Effective communication and teamwork are important skills, as much of the role involves translating technical findings into actionable insights for non-technical stakeholders.

What is clinical data science?

Clinical data science is a field that focuses on collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data from clinical trials and healthcare settings to improve patient outcomes and advance medical research. Professionals in this area use statistical methods, programming, and domain knowledge to ensure the quality and integrity of clinical data. Their work supports evidence-based decision-making in medicine and helps bring new therapies to market safely and efficiently.

Is 40 too late for data science?

Clinical Data Science is a field that values skills and experience over age; many professionals transition into data science later in their careers. Gaining proficiency in programming languages like Python or R, along with understanding healthcare data, can enable a successful career change regardless of age. Continuous learning and relevant certifications can also enhance job prospects at any age.

What is the highest paying job in data science?

In data science, senior roles such as Lead Data Scientist, Machine Learning Engineer, or Data Science Director tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding $150,000 annually. These positions typically require advanced skills in programming, statistical analysis, and experience with big data tools, along with leadership responsibilities.

What is the difference between Clinical Data Science vs Data Analyst?

AspectClinical Data ScienceData Analyst
Required CredentialsDegree in Data Science, Biostatistics, or related field; knowledge of healthcare dataDegree in Statistics, Mathematics, or related field; proficiency in data tools
Work EnvironmentHealthcare settings, research institutions, pharmaceutical companiesBusiness, finance, marketing, or healthcare organizations
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in clinical trials, healthcare research, drug developmentUsed across various industries for business insights and reporting

Clinical Data Science focuses on analyzing healthcare and clinical trial data to support medical research and drug development, often requiring specialized healthcare knowledge. Data Analysts handle a broader range of data analysis tasks across industries, emphasizing business insights. While both roles involve data manipulation and statistical skills, Clinical Data Scientists typically work within healthcare settings on complex clinical data, whereas Data Analysts serve diverse sectors with general data reporting needs.

How much do clinical data scientists make?

Clinical data scientists in the US typically earn between $80,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in machine learning and programming may earn higher salaries, often exceeding $150,000. Compensation also varies based on the industry sector and the size of the organization.
What job categories do people searching Clinical Data Science jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Clinical Data Science jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Clinical Data Science jobs? Cities in California with the most Clinical Data Science job openings:
Infographic showing various Clinical Data Science job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $117,352 per year, or $56.4 per hour.

Clinical Data Scientist

Unlearn

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

Our Mission and Vision
Unlearn exists to transform clinical development by making every trial smarter. We harness data, AI, and digital twins to enable faster, more robust studies that bring life-saving treatments to patients faster. This mission drives everything we do as we partner with biopharmaceutical companies to redesign how clinical trials are planned, run, and analyzed.
We are defining the future of clinical development with unmatched scientific credibility, replacing uncertainty with AI-powered precision so decisions are clearer and trials are stronger. We don't just disrupt the pharmaceutical industry, we create lasting change.
We believe AI will define the future of medicine, and we are committed to building that future responsibly, rigorously, and in close collaboration with our partners in clinical development.
About Our Team
We come from a variety of backgrounds ranging from machine learning to marketing-but regardless of where we come from, Unlearners share some common traits:
  • Unlearners are ambitious; we aren't intimidated by big, challenging goals.
  • Unlearners are disciplined experimenters; we break down our big goals into smaller chunks and meet as often as necessary to track our velocity and iterate quickly.
  • Unlearners are gritty; we never give up, setbacks just make us try harder.
  • Unlearners are receptive to new ideas; in fact, we hate being stuck with the status quo
  • Unlearners are storytellers; sharing information with each other and with the world is super important, too important to be boring. And, last but not least,
  • Unlearners are team-oriented; we put the mission first, the company second, the team third, and individuals last.

Headquartered in San Francisco, Unlearn was founded in 2017 by a team of world-class machine learning scientists. We have raised venture capital from top tier investors such as Altimeter, Insight Partners, Radical Ventures, 8VC, DCVC, and DCVC Bio, and completed our $50 million Series C in January 2024.
If our purpose and culture resonate with you, we invite you to apply.
The Role
Clinical Data Scientists at Unlearn build world-class data products that underpin advances in machine learning for clinical research. Working in close collaboration with machine learning scientists, engineers, clinical scientists, and product partners, they transform complex clinical data into high-quality, well-understood datasets tailored for modeling and other downstream applications. The role spans multiple disease areas and data sources, requiring strong software practices, careful data curation, and the ability to quickly develop clinical domain expertise. In addition to internal development, Clinical Data Scientists often work in forward-deployed settings, partnering directly with clients to ensure Unlearn's solutions are appropriately tailored to real-world study designs.
Responsibilities
  • Transform clinical trial, observational, and electronic health record data into high-quality, well-structured datasets.
  • Analyze longitudinal clinical datasets, developing a strong understanding of outcome measures, biomarkers, and other variables commonly used in clinical research across multiple disease areas.
  • Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams of data scientists, machine learning scientists, engineers, and clinicians to design, build, and maintain robust data products grounded in sound data organization, domain knowledge, and careful analysis.
  • Communicate technical findings, data characteristics, and limitations clearly and effectively to both internal partners and external collaborators, including in forward-deployed, client-facing settings.

Requirements
  • BS or advanced degree in Bioinformatics, Computer Science, Psychology, Public Health, or related discipline.
  • 2+ years of experience wrangling data from disparate sources, data cleaning, and harmonizing datasets for analysis.
  • Experience working with complex or nuanced datasets.
  • Fluency in Python and its essential data science tools (numpy, pandas).
  • Demonstrated experience in collaborative software development.
  • Experience with clinical datasets in applied machine learning applications.
  • Experience working in multidisciplinary teams that include scientists, engineers, and product management.

Nice to Haves
  • Prior experience in forward-deployed, client-facing settings.
  • Experience in clinical/healthcare data.

Benefits & Perks
The following benefits and perks are for full time roles only.
  • Generous equity participation
  • 100% company-covered medical, dental, & vision insurance plans
  • 401k plan with matching
  • Flexible PTO plus company holidays
  • Annual company-wide break December 24 through January 1
  • Commuter benefits
  • Paid Parental Leave

Unlearn is an equal opportunity employer.
At Unlearn, we are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace, because inclusion and diversity are essential to achieving our mission. If you're excited about this role, and your past experience doesn't align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply nevertheless.