Statistics & Data Science Innovation Hub Principal Data Scientist
Location: UK – Hertfordshire – Stevenage, GSK HQ
Posted Date: Nov 26 2025
We are looking for a Statistics & Data Science Innovation Hub Principal Data Scientist to join our team. This is an exciting opportunity to channel your passion for innovation in the field of Statistics and Data Science to help shape the future of the Biostatistics function and transform the way in which GSK uses data and quantitative thinking to drive decision‑making in R&D.
Biostatistics is the single‑largest functional group of Statisticians, Programmers and Data Scientists within GSK R&D, numbering approximately 900 permanent people in the US, UK, Europe and India. Our mission is to put statistical thinking at the heart of R&D decision‑making; to ensure that predictive models and well‑designed experiments and trials deliver robust evidence as the input to those decisions – ultimately making the R&D process more efficient.
We are investing in our cutting‑edge innovation capabilities by expanding the Statistics & Data Science Innovation Hub (SDS‑IH) led by Prof Nicky Best. The vision of SDS‑IH is to be the catalyst for innovation and advanced data‑driven decision‑making. To achieve this, we are forming agile teams dedicated to untangling and resolving complex data challenges across R&D, constructing robust data pipelines, comprehensive analytics, and dynamic dashboards to enable stakeholders to take data‑informed decisions in real‑time.
At the heart of SDS‑IH lies a diverse coalition of Statisticians and Data Scientists—a synthesis of unique skills and experiences. Together, we are the architects of novel quantitative methodologies, systems, and tools – a living embodiment of our vision.
About The Role
Our new Data Science Innovation for R&D Operations pillar is transforming how GSK makes decisions across its R&D operations. We have already delivered high‑impact solutions in Clinical Operations, Finance, and Resource Management—and we are just getting started.
As a Principal Data Scientist, you will be at the forefront of this transformation, using cutting‑edge ML, statistical modelling, and GenAI to solve complex operational challenges that directly improve how we deliver medicines to patients. This is a unique opportunity to apply your technical expertise to problems that matter, working in a fast‑paced, collaborative environment with some of the brightest minds in the industry.
We create a place where people can grow, be their best, be safe, and feel welcome, valued and included.
Benefits include a competitive salary, an annual bonus based on company performance, healthcare and wellbeing programmes, pension plan membership, and shares and savings programme.
Our Performance with Choice programme offers a hybrid working model, empowering you to find the optimal balance between remote and in‑office work.
In this role you will:
* Build predictive models and AI solutions that solve impactful business problems focusing on clinical operations.
* Deliver impactful data science solutions from concept to implementation.
* Collaborate in cross‑functional technical and business teams.
* Communicate complex findings clearly through compelling visualisations.
* Set high standards for code quality and technical innovation.
Why you?
Basic Qualifications & Skills
* PhD (or equivalent) in statistics, data science, computer science, mathematics, engineering or a related quantitative field.
* Advanced R/Python programming with expertise in OOP, data structures, data science libraries and production deployment.
* Strong statistical modelling and machine learning skills, backed by a postgraduate degree.
* Pharmaceutical industry experience, particularly in clinical operations.
* Expertise in translating business challenges into actionable insights through data‑driven approaches.
Preferred Qualifications & Skills
* Technical consulting experience: understand business context, frame scientific problems, provide actionable insights and deliver business‑facing solutions.
* Experience of working in matrixed teams, particularly teams of clinicians, researchers and technical contributors.
* A highly analytical problem‑solver with a commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.
Closing Date for Applications: 10th December 2025 EOD
Please take a copy of the Job Description; it will not be available post closure of the advert.
When applying for this role, please use the ‘cover letter’ of the online application or your CV to describe how you meet the competencies for this role, as outlined in the job requirements above. The information that you have provided in your cover letter and CV will be used to assess your application.
GSK is an Equal Opportunity Employer. This ensures that all qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), military service or any basis prohibited under federal, state or local law.
Should you require any adjustments to our process to assist you in demonstrating your strengths and capabilities, contact ukrecruitment.adjustments@gsk.com or 0808 234 4391. The helpline is available from 08:30 am to 12:00 noon Monday to Friday, during bank holidays these times and days may vary. Please note that if your enquiry does not relate to adjustments, we will not be able to support you through these channels.
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