Senior Scientist I

Job Description Summary

The Biotherapeutics group within Oncology Drug Discovery at Novartis Biomedical Research is seeking a highly motivated and collaborative Research Scientist II to advance drug-conjugate discovery programs for the treatment of cancer patients. In this lab-based role, the successful candidate will apply cell and molecular biology techniques to deliver impactful data for target validation and drug optimization efforts. This role requires a strong understanding of and experience with in vitro cell-based assays for drug discovery. This individual will interact collaboratively with colleagues across Biomedical Research and will be a member of multidisciplinary project teams. This a great opportunity to join a group dedicated to the discovery of biotherapeutics and to support advancement of drug discovery projects into the Novartis portfolio.

 

Job Description

Your Key Responsibilities:

• Generates hypotheses to test, troubleshoots issues and designs and executes the next set of experiments with some input from senior lab members/manager.
• Works independently and as a part of a team to design, execute, and analyze in vitro experiments to profile small molecules and biologics and elucidate mechanisms of action
• Executes cell and molecular biology assays (e.g. cell titer glo, flow cytometry, JESS, western blot, MSD, HTRF)
• Cultures cells using sterile technique including genetic engineering and validation of cell lines
• Uses laboratory automation equipment (liquid handlers, plate readers, dispensers) to perform screens
• Maintains an organized and detailed record of all experiments
• Works collaboratively across teams and trains other members of team in areas of technical expertise as needed.
• Clearly communicates findings and presents research to multidisciplinary project teams
• Supports lab operations including management of materials, maintenance of instruments, and general lab duties

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

This position will be located at the Cambridge, MA site and will not have the ability to be located remotely.

• Essential Requirements: Aim for 5 bullet points, but no more than 8.
• Desirable Requirements:  2 bullet points, maximum (optional).

Role Requirements:
Essential Requirements:

• BS/MS Degree in biology or related field
• Minimum 2+ years of bench work experience in a cancer biology lab
• Demonstrated ability to analyze, interpret and present data in a clear manner and use data to generate new hypotheses
• Hands-on experience with cellular assay development & execution
• Level will commensurate with experience
• Highly self-motivated, collaborative team worker with exceptional organizational skills and curiosity to expand and diversify skillsets

Desired Requirements:

• Understanding of drug discovery optimization processes
• Experience with discovery of antibody-drug-conjugates
• Previous industry experience preferred

Novartis Compensation and Benefit Summary:

The pay range for this position at commencement of employment is expected to be between: $85,400 and $158,600/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 plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment. If hired, employee will be in an “at-will position” and the Company reserves the right to modify base salary (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.

Why Novartis:
Our purpose is to reimagine medicine to improve and extend people’s lives and our vision is to become the most valued and trusted medicines company in the world. How can we achieve this? With our people. It is our associates that