Director, External Innovation – DPDS, In Silico Discovery

Johnson & Johnson

. Advance technological innovation within DPDS, primarily focusing on AI-based molecular design across drug modalities .

Posted 11/12/2026full-timeUnited StatesLead💰 $168,000 - $290,950 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Expertise in AI/ML-driven drug discovery and the ability to integrate computational and experimental approaches are essential. Strong project management skills and strategic thinking capabilities are crucial for delivering on objectives and driving innovation in drug discovery.

Highest-signal resume keywords

AI/ML-Driven DiscoveryProject ManagementComputational ApproachesExperimental ApproachesMedicinal Chemistry

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

AI-Based Molecular DesignHigh-Dimensional Dataset AnalysisDrug Discovery TechniquesStrategic Technology Landscape ReviewsScientific AssessmentContract NegotiationValue-Creating OpportunitiesBiological Insights GenerationWorkflow ManagementInvestment Recommendations

Soft Skills

Excellent Oral CommunicationExcellent Written CommunicationProactivitySelf-MotivationStrategic Thinking

Certifications & Qualifications

Master’s Degree

Industry Keywords

Drug ModalitiesIn Silico DiscoveryMedicinal ChemistryAntibody DiscoveryAnalytical SciencesBiochemistryCellular BiologyMolecular BiologyPharmacologyDrug Metabolism

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Advance technological innovation within DPDS, primarily focusing on AI-based molecular design across drug modalities
Leverage and generate high-dimensional datasets to discover biological insights and enable model building
Develop strategies for self-driving labs
Explore computational tools that enable drug discovery
Conceptualize, incorporate, and scale the latest technological advances in drug discovery
Identify, evaluate, develop, and execute value-creating opportunities and scientific breakthroughs
Structure, negotiate, and close contracts with preferred partners
Conduct strategic technology landscape reviews using competitive intelligence resources focused on AI/ML-enabled drug discovery
Partner with J&J Global External Innovation, Janssen Business Development, and DPDS to source and validate scientific assessment inputs
Manage and enable workflow for a portfolio of technology assessment projects across DPDS functional disciplines
Develop areas of interest to support investment recommendations
Support the head of DPDS External Innovation In Silico Discovery to ensure objectives and timelines are met
Demonstrate Credo Values in day-to-day interactions

Requirements

What you’ll need

Minimum of a Master’s degree is required
Minimum of 10 years of relevant experience
Bilingual in computational (dry-lab) and experimental (wet-lab) approaches to enable drug discovery
Ability to flex between scientific/technical detail and big-picture strategy
Experience with modern techniques, such as AI/ML-driven discovery, with a track record of delivering exceptional results
Project management skills and demonstrable ability to think strategically and deliver on strategic objectives
Proficiency in planning, proactivity, self-motivation, and ability to work independently
Excellent oral and written communication skills
Understanding of medicinal chemistry, antibody discovery, analytical sciences, biochemistry, cellular/molecular biology, pharmacology, drug delivery, drug metabolism and pharmacokinetics in at least some domains is highly preferred
Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position

Benefits

Comp & perks

Relocation support may be provided for qualified candidates in accordance with company policy
Retirement plan (pension)
Savings plan (401(k))
Long-term incentive program
Vacation – 120 hours per calendar year
Sick time – 40 hours per calendar year; 48 hours for Colorado residents; 56 hours for Washington residents
Holiday pay, including Floating Holidays – 13 days per calendar year
Work, Personal and Family Time – up to 40 hours per calendar year
Parental Leave – 480 hours within one year of the birth/adoption/foster care of a child
Bereavement Leave – 240 hours for an immediate family member; 40 hours for an extended family member per calendar year
Caregiver Leave – 80 hours in a 52-week rolling period
Volunteer Leave – 32 hours per calendar year
Military Spouse Time-Off – 80 hours per calendar year