David Apfel is the Head of External Innovation, Janssen R&D Data Science. In this role, David and his team focus on identifying and building Data Science partnerships across Discovery & Development and all of Janssen’s therapeutic areas, enabling the application of the world’s best innovation, data, and technology to Janssen R&D’s mission of developing innovative medicines. These partnerships deploy AI/ML, Digital Health, and regulatory-grade Real World Evidence to high-impact areas across the Janssen pipeline with applications ranging from discovering new targets, accelerating the development of new molecules, enhanced clinical trial design, patient stratification, external control arms, and clinical operations.

Prior to his current role, David built and led the Janssen R&D Data Science Immunology Portfolio Management team, working to identify and deliver high impact use-cases to advance Janssen’s Immunology portfolio. Under David’s leadership, the team developed regulatory-grade real-world evidence, accelerated trials utilizing novel datasets and AI/ML patient finding approaches, and developed algorithms based on real-world data and medical image data. David joined Janssen in February 2019 as a member of the Janssen R&D Strategy and Operations team, leading strategic initiatives across R&D and beyond.

Prior to joining Janssen, David worked at The Boston Consulting Group, a management consulting firm, in the healthcare practice. At BCG, David advised healthcare organizations on topics including corporate transformation, portfolio strategy, social impact strategy, and regulatory operations. David also worked for the Clinton Health Access Initiative, partnering with the Eswatini Ministry of Health to improve their public health laboratory infrastructure and strengthen access to life-saving diagnostics. He began his career at Charles River Associates, a life sciences commercial strategy consultancy.

David received his BA in mathematical-economics from Pomona College and an MBA from NYU Stern.