Principal R Developer – Data Visualization & Application Development

About This Role:
 

As a Principal Developer within the Data Visualization and Application Development (DVAD) team, you will play a key role in designing and delivering high-quality data visualization tools and applications that support clinical trial processes.
 

Working in a collaborative and innovative environment, you will transform complex clinical and operational data into intuitive, impactful solutions using technologies such as R, Shiny, Quarto, and Markdown. You will contribute to the development of scalable applications, apply SDLC best practices, and help drive continuous improvement across our data-driven capabilities.
 

This role combines strong technical delivery with user engagement — partnering closely with stakeholders to understand needs, communicate complex concepts clearly, and ensure solutions deliver real value in advancing clinical and drug development.

This is hybrid role requiring 50% of each week to be spent on site in the offices in Maidenhead.

What You’ll Do:

• Design, develop, and enhance applications and data visualizations for regulated clinical environments

• Build robust R-based solutions, including Shiny applications and R packages

• Apply best practices in data visualization (e.g., ggplot2, Plotly)

• Contribute to technical decision-making and solve complex development challenges

• Collaborate using Git/GitHub to support efficient, team-based development

• Analyze clinical and operational data to generate meaningful insights

• Partner with users and stakeholders to gather requirements and improve tools

• Follow and contribute to Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) best practices

• Drive continuous improvement through user feedback and innovation

• Stay current with emerging technologies, including responsible use of AI in development

Who You Are:

You are a solutions-focused developer with a passion for turning complex data into practical, high-impact tools. You thrive in collaborative environments, while also being confident working independently.

You are naturally curious, user-focused, and comfortable communicating technical concepts to diverse audiences. You enjoy solving problems, building strong stakeholder relationships, and contributing to meaningful advancements in data-driven and clinical environments.

Required Skills:

• University degree or equivalent experience

• Strong experience in data visualization, application development, or related digital/data roles

• Strong expertise in R (including Shiny, Quarto, and Markdown)

• Proven experience with data visualization tools (e.g., ggplot2, plotly)

• Proficiency in R package development and testing frameworks (e.g., shinytest2, testthat)

• Experience with Git/GitHub for version control

• Strong data analysis and problem-solving skills

• Good communication skills (written and verbal)

• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively

Preferred Skills:

• Experience working with clinical trial data and standards such as CDISC. 

• Understanding of clinical trial roles and processes (including knowledge of GxP/GCP)

• Good knowledge of pharma-specific open-source solutions (i.e. Pharmaverse)

• Web development using React.js/Node.js, or PHP

• Familiarity with databases (e.g., MySQL) and modern data platforms (e.g., Snowflake, Databricks)

• Background in statistical or data science

• Experience with user-centered design approaches

• Interest or experience in AI-supported development practices

We are a global team with a commitment to excellence, and a pioneering spirit. As a mid-sized biotechnology company, we provide the stability and resources of a well-established business while fostering an environment where individual contributions make a significant impact. Our team encompasses some of the most talented and passionate achievers who have unparalleled opportunities for learning, growth, and expanding their skills. Above all, we work together to deliver life-changing medicines, with every role playing a vital part in our mission. Caring Deeply. Achieving Excellence. Changing Lives.

At Biogen, we are committed to building on our culture of inclusion and belonging that reflects the communities where we operate and the patients we serve. We know that diverse backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives make us a stronger and more innovative company, and we are focused on building teams where every employee feels empowered and inspired. Read on to learn more about Biogen.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, race, color, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, religion, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information or any other basis protected by federal, state or local law. Biogen is an E-Verify Employer in the United States.