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Drug Development Jobs in New Jersey (NOW HIRING)

R&D Programmer II

Parsippany, NJ · On-site

$56 - $61/hr

Proficient knowledge of clinical trials and the drug development process, industry standards, and statistical concepts used in analysis and submissions of clinical trial data. * Strong understanding ...

You will join a cutting-edge Drug Development Data Science and Advanced Analytics (DSAA) team to drive and shape the global drug development process. We are looking for a seasoned, scientifically ...

Knowledge and experience with biopharmaceutical drug development * Experience in the design, implementation, and interpretation of GLP-complaint safety studies including experience as a GLP Study ...

Target Animal Safety Scientist

Parsippany, NJ · On-site +1

$128K - $177K/yr

Knowledge and experience with biopharmaceutical drug development * Experience in the design, implementation, and interpretation of GLP-complaint safety studies including experience as a GLP Study ...

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Showing results 1-20

Drug Development information

See New Jersey salary details

$33.5K

$78.6K

$135K

How much do drug development jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for drug development in New Jersey is $78,618.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,400.00 and $91,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Drug Development, and why are they important?

To thrive in Drug Development, you need a strong background in pharmaceutical sciences, biology, or chemistry, often supported by an advanced degree (e.g., PhD, PharmD, or MSc). Familiarity with regulatory compliance, clinical trial management systems, and data analysis software such as SAS or R is typically required. Excellent problem-solving, project management, and cross-functional communication skills help professionals excel in this multidisciplinary field. These competencies ensure that new drugs are developed safely, efficiently, and in accordance with regulatory standards.

What are the typical stages of collaboration between different teams in a drug development role?

In drug development, professionals regularly collaborate across multidisciplinary teams, including research scientists, clinical trial coordinators, regulatory affairs specialists, and manufacturing experts. Early stages involve close work with research and discovery teams to identify promising compounds, followed by coordination with clinical teams during trial phases, and finally with regulatory and production teams as the drug moves toward approval and commercialization. Effective communication and cross-functional teamwork are essential, as each stage relies on timely data sharing and joint problem-solving to navigate complex challenges.

What is drug development?

Drug development is the process of bringing a new pharmaceutical drug to market. It involves several stages, including drug discovery, preclinical research, clinical trials, and regulatory approval. Each stage is designed to ensure the safety, efficacy, and quality of the drug before it can be made available to patients. The entire process can take several years and requires collaboration between scientists, clinicians, regulatory agencies, and pharmaceutical companies.

What is the difference between Drug Development vs Pharmacologist?

AspectDrug DevelopmentPharmacologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemistry, or related fields; often requires experience in clinical trialsDegree in Pharmacology, Pharmacy, or related fields; may require licensing or certification for clinical practice
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, pharmaceutical companies, clinical trial sitesResearch labs, hospitals, academic institutions, regulatory agencies
Industry UsageDeveloping new drugs, overseeing clinical trials, regulatory submissionsStudying drug effects, mechanisms, safety, and efficacy; advising on drug use

While both roles are integral to the pharmaceutical industry, Drug Development focuses on creating and bringing new drugs to market through research, testing, and regulatory processes. Pharmacologists primarily study how drugs interact with biological systems, often working in research or clinical settings to understand drug effects and safety. The two roles often collaborate but differ in their core responsibilities and career focus.

What are popular job titles related to Drug Development jobs in New Jersey? For Drug Development jobs in New Jersey, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in New Jersey are hiring for Drug Development jobs? Cities in New Jersey with the most Drug Development job openings:
Infographic showing various Drug Development job openings in New Jersey as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 62% Full Time, 34% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,618 per year, or $37.8 per hour.
Associate Director, AI Clinical Scientist

Associate Director, AI Clinical Scientist

Otsuka

Princeton, NJ

$61.80K - $62.40K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

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;https://www.otsuka-us.com/careers-join-otsuka.

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. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will be given consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity or gender expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, national origin, veteran status, marital status, or any other legally protected characteristic.

If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you may request a reasonable accommodation, if you are unable or limited in your ability to apply to this job opening as a result of your disability. You can request reasonable accommodations by contacting Accommodation Request.

Statement Regarding Job Recruiting Fraud Scams

At Otsuka we take security and protection of your personal information very seriously. Please be aware individuals may approach you and falsely present themselves as our employees or representatives. They may use this false pretense to try to gain access to your personal information or acquire money from you by offering fictitious employment opportunities purportedly on our behalf.

Please understand, Otsuka will never ask for financial information of any kind or for payment of money during the job application process. We do not require any financial, credit card or bank account information and/or any payment of any kind to be considered for employment. We will also not offer you money to buy equipment, software, or for any other purpose during the job application process. If you are being asked to pay or offered money for equipment fees or some other application processing fee, even if claimed you will be reimbursed, this is not Otsuka. These claims are fraudulent and you are strongly advised to exercise caution when you receive such an offer of employment.

Otsuka will also never ask you to download a third-party application in order to communicate about a legitimate job opportunity. Scammers may also send offers or claims from a fake email address or from Yahoo, Gmail, Hotmail, etc, and not from an official Otsuka email address. Please take extra caution while examining such an email address, as the scammers may misspell an official Otsuka email address and use a slightly modified version duplicating letters.

To ensure that you are communicating about a legitimate job opportunity at Otsuka, please only deal directly with Otsuka through its official Otsuka Career website https://vhr-otsuka.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/External.

Otsuka will not be held liable or responsible for any claims, losses, damages or expenses resulting from job recruiting scams. If you suspect a position is fraudulent, please contact Otsuka's call center at: 800-363-5670. If you believe you are the victim of fraud resulting from a job recruiting scam, please contact the FBI through the Internet Crime Complaint Center at: https://www.ic3.gov, or your local authorities.

Otsuka America Pharmaceutical Inc., Otsuka Pharmaceutical Development & Commercialization, Inc., and Otsuka Precision Health, Inc. ("Otsuka") does not accept unsolicited assistance from search firms for employment opportunities. All CVs/resumes submitted by search firms to any Otsuka employee directly or through Otsuka's application portal without a valid written search agreement in place for the position will be considered Otsuka's sole property. No fee will be paid if a candidate is hired by Otsuka as a result of an agency referral where no pre-existing agreement is in place. Where agency agreements are in place, introductions are position specific. Please, no phone calls or emails.