About Gilead Sciences

Gilead Sciences is a leading biopharmaceutical company dedicated to creating a healthier world for all people. For over 35 years, Gilead has pioneered breakthroughs in treating HIV, viral hepatitis, COVID-19, oncology, and inflammatory diseases. Headquartered in Foster City, California, the company relentlessly develops innovative therapies that improve lives and ensure global access to cutting-edge treatments. Gilead's mission drives collaboration, determination, and a passion for scientific innovation, making it a powerhouse in the life sciences industry.

Role Overview

The Senior Director, AI Acceleration (AIx) is a pivotal leadership position within Gilead's Team ARC (AI Research Center), part of the Clinical Data Science organization in the Drug Development division. Based in Foster City, California, this role reports to leadership under the Chief Medical Officer. You will spearhead the AIx team to deliver scalable, production-ready AI solutions that accelerate drug development, enhance operational workflows, and generate measurable business value across therapeutic areas like HIV, oncology, and inflammatory diseases.

This position demands deep technical expertise in AI/ML, exceptional leadership, and strategic alignment with Gilead's enterprise objectives. Collaborate with teams such as Product Management & Experiences (PMx), Business Delivery Excellence (BDx), and Enterprise AI & Governance Excellence (EAGx), while engaging stakeholders in clinical studies, regulatory processes, and real-world evidence generation.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

Develop and communicate a cohesive AIx strategy aligned with Gilead's priorities and industry trends. Provide thought leadership on emerging AI/ML technologies, including Generative AI (GenAI) and Large Language Models (LLMs), and their impact on drug development. Define success metrics to monitor AI initiatives' contributions to organizational goals in HIV treatments, oncology advancements, and inflammatory disease therapies.

Capability Building and Innovation

Oversee the design, development, and deployment of AI models for clinical trials, safety monitoring, regulatory workflows, real-world evidence, and biomarkers. Drive adoption of advanced analytics and ensure scalability through MLOps, CI/CD pipelines, and model monitoring best practices.

Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement

Partner with IT, Privacy, and Drug Development Systems to integrate AI into enterprise workflows. Work with therapeutic area leaders in HIV, oncology, and inflammation to tailor solutions for their needs. Collaborate with PMx to create user-centric AI products that boost decision-making and efficiency.

Team Leadership and Development

Lead a multidisciplinary team of data scientists, engineers, and experts. Mentor talent to build technical and leadership skills, allocate resources for high-impact projects, and foster a collaborative, innovative culture.

Qualifications & Requirements

Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree with 14+ years of experience, a Master’s with 13+ years, or a Ph.D. with 12+ years in Data Science, Computer Science, AI/ML, or related fields. A proven track record leading AI/ML strategies, teams, and large-scale projects in complex environments is essential. Deep technical expertise in AI technologies, MLOps, and applications to biopharma—such as clinical data analysis for HIV, oncology biomarkers, and inflammatory disease modeling—is required. Exceptional leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills are non-negotiable.

Benefits & Perks

Gilead Sciences offers a premium compensation package for the Senior Director, AI Acceleration role, including a competitive base salary estimated at $350,000–$450,000 annually, performance bonuses, and equity opportunities. Full-time employees enjoy comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage, a robust 401(k) with company match, generous paid time off, and family leave benefits. Additional perks include onsite fitness centers, wellness programs, and commuter assistance in Foster City, California.

Career Growth

At Gilead, people leaders are central to employee experience and culture evolution. This role positions you for executive advancement within the Drug Development division and beyond. Access world-class training, mentorship from top biopharma leaders, and opportunities to influence global health innovations in HIV, oncology, and inflammatory diseases. Gilead invests in your growth, building a strong talent pipeline for future C-suite roles.

Why Join Gilead

Joining Gilead means contributing to life-changing therapies that combat HIV, advance oncology treatments, and address inflammatory diseases affecting millions worldwide. Work in a collaborative environment at the forefront of AI in biopharma, based in the innovative hub of Foster City, California. With a commitment to inclusion, development, and empowerment, Gilead empowers you to make a direct impact on bold ambitions. Be part of a team relentless in pursuit of a healthier future.

Role FAQs

What is the location and work arrangement?

This full-time role is based in Foster City, California, with potential for hybrid flexibility aligned with Gilead's policies.

What salary can I expect?

Estimated total compensation ranges from $350,000 to $450,000 USD yearly, including base, bonus, and equity, based on biopharma sector rates for senior director levels.

Does this role require specific AI experience?

Yes, expertise in GenAI, LLMs, MLOps, and AI applications to drug development (e.g., clinical trials, biomarkers) is critical.

How does this role impact Gilead's mission?

You'll accelerate therapies for HIV, oncology, and inflammatory diseases by deploying AI to streamline development and operations.

What are the education requirements?

Bachelor’s (14+ years exp.), Master’s (13+ years), or Ph.D. (12+ years) in relevant fields.