Senior Scientist – In vitro Pharmacology - Gene Therapy

Job Description Summary

Onsite
#LI-Onsite

Job Description:
About the role:
We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Senior Scientist I to join our dynamic in vitro pharmacology team in San Diego dedicated to advancing gene therapy and siRNA for neurological and neuromuscular diseases. As a key member of our research programs, you will play a critical role in supporting various aspects of biomarker assay development, tissue sample processing, antibody screening campaigns, and monoclonal antibody isolation. Sounds exciting? Join us and make a difference.

 

Job Description

Your Key Responsibilities:

• Design, develop, and optimize biomarker assays essential for monitoring therapeutic efficacy and disease progression in neurological and neuromuscular gene therapy programs.
• Utilize expertise in ELISA, MSD, and Luminex assays to accurately measure biomarker levels in biological samples.
• Conduct tissue sample processing techniques to extract RNA, DNA, and proteins for downstream analysis.
• Conduct comprehensive analysis of gene expression utilizing techniques such as RT-ddPCR.
• Implement next-generation sequencing methodologies to assess gene expression profiles in relevant tissues.
• Lead antibody screening campaigns, including hybridoma generation, antibody selection, and validation.
• Isolate monoclonal antibodies using state-of-the-art techniques and platforms.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to integrate findings into the overall program strategy.
• Stay abreast of the latest scientific advancements and contribute to the continuous improvement of experimental protocols and techniques.
   

Video Link  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ggbnzRY9z8w 
 

This position will be located at San Diego site and will not have the ability to be located remotely.

Please note that this role would not provide relocation, and only local candidates will be considered.

Role Requirements:
Essential Requirements:

• B.S. in a relevant scientific discipline (e.g., Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Immunology, Neuroscience) with 5+ years, MSc with 4+ years or Ph.D. with 2 years of industry experience.
• Strong background in tissue sample processing techniques, including nucleic acid and protein extraction.
• Experience in gene therapy biodistribution methods including ddPCR, RT-ddPCR.
• Proven expertise in biomarker assay development, including ELISA, MSD, FRET, Luminex, Simoa, Western blot (JESS)
• Experience in cell isolation and characterization using flow cytometry, FACS.
• Knowledge and understanding of next-generation sequencing methodologies and data analysis, including RNAseq, 10x Genomics. Hands on experience a plus.
• Knowledge and understanding of antibody screening campaigns, hybridoma generation, and monoclonal antibody isolation. Hands on experience a plus.
• Proficiency at problem-solving and ability to troubleshoot technical issues independently.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment.
• Demonstrated track record of scientific innovation and productivity, as evidenced by publications and/or patents.

Desired Requirements:

• Prior experience in gene therapy research, particularly in neurological and neuromuscular diseases.
• Familiarity with industry standards and technologies for biomarker assay development.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced and growing team environment and to prioritize work from multiple projects. Must be highly reliable and goals/deadlines oriented.
• Hands-on experience with automation and high-throughput screening platforms, a plus.

Novartis Compensation and Benefit Summary:

The pay range for this position at commencement of employment is expected to be between: $93,800 and $174,200/year; however, while salary ranges are effective from 1/1/25 through 12/31/25, fluctuations in the job market may necessitate adjustments to pay ranges during this period.  Further, final pay determinations will depend on various factors, including, but not limited to geographical location, experience level, knowledge, skills, and abilities. The total compensation package for this position may also include other elements, including a sign-on bonus, restricted stock units, and discretionary awards in addition to a full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits (including 401(k) eligibility and various paid time off benefits, such as vacation, sick time, and parental leave), dependent on the position offered. Details of participation in these benefit