Discovery Postdoctoral Fellow / Discovery Postdoctoral Fellowess

Job ID

REQ-10054856

Posting Date

June 11, 2025

Location

Switzerland

Summary

Join Novartis Biomedical Research as a Discovery Postdoctoral Fellow and become an integral part of our Neuroinflammation team within the Neuroscience Research Department located in Basel, Switzerland.

About the Role

We are looking for an independent, highly motivated, and dedicated researcher with substantial expertise in neuroinflammation and microglia biology, alongside advanced skills in cellular modeling. You will work with the research team to explore mechanisms of microglia modulation and their relationship to neurodegenerative diseases.

In this role, you will have access to cutting-edge cellular models and proprietary tools designed to modulate specific targets, allowing you to investigate signaling mechanisms relevant to neuroinflammation biology. You will receive guidance from mentors possessing diverse educational backgrounds, scientific and technical expertise, and experiences in drug development. Furthermore, this position offers a unique opportunity for collaboration with cross-functional teams and scientists across various departments, providing insights into the facets of drug development.

As part of the Discovery Fellowship track within the Novartis Postdoctoral Fellowship Program, you will join a vibrant community dedicated to professional growth. This includes participating in monthly seminars and scheduled events designed for postdocs. You will be part of a supportive and collaborative network of postdocs and scientists, enhancing your scientific and professional skills. Opportunities to engage in a Postdoc Practicum in another laboratory or business function within Novartis will also be available. This applied research program can last up to three years, with the possibility of applying for a one-year extension.

Discovery Postdoctoral Fellows are encouraged to conduct innovative, interdisciplinary research and are expected to publish their findings in leading journals. We strive to collaborate across scientific and organizational boundaries, focusing on groundbreaking technologies that can lead to therapeutic breakthroughs for patients.

Through the Novartis Postdoctoral Fellowship Program, you will enhance your skills as a drug hunter and a scientific leader. Become part of a professional network that will support your development as a research scientist while making a meaningful impact on healthcare by reimagining medicine together.

Start Date

September 1, 2025

Major Accountabilities

As a Discovery Postdoctoral Fellow, you will:

• Independently design and develop cellular assays to investigate mechanisms and functional consequences of microglia target modulation.
• Examine intra-, extra-, and intercellular signaling pathways using a variety of available tools and analytical methods.
• Collaborate closely with experimental teams within your group and across departments.
• Clearly communicate your research to both experts and non-experts in the field.
• Prepare and present research findings at scientific publications and conferences.

Minimum Requirements

• PhD in Neuroscience.
• PhD students in the final year of their thesis work are eligible to apply. Applicants should have received their PhD within the last two years (i.e., degrees awarded in May 2023 or later).
• Strong knowledge in microglia biology and a specific interest in studying neuro-glia cross-talk.
• In-depth understanding of current knowledge regarding the pathology of neurodegenerative disorders (e.g., Alzheimer's Disease, Parkinson's Disease, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, Multiple Sclerosis).
• Solid experience with complex cell culture models, such as primary mouse neuronal cultures and hiPSC-derived cells, or the generation of stable genetically engineered cell lines.
• Basic computational experience is a plus.
• Some experience with in vivo models and ex vivo analysis techniques is a plus.
• Excellent analytical, communication, presentation, and organizational skills.
• A passion for fundamental exploratory research and boundless curiosity.

How to Apply

Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

Why Novartis

Helping people affected by diseases and their families requires more than innovative science; it requires a community of intelligent, passionate individuals like you. By collaborating, supporting, and inspiring one another, we can achieve breakthroughs that genuinely change patients' lives. Are you ready to create a brighter future together?

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Division

Biomedical Research

Business Unit

Pharma Research

Location

Switzerland

Site

Basel (City)

Company / Legal Entity

C028 (FCRS = CH028) Novartis Pharma AG

Functional Area

Others

Job Type

Full time

Employment Type

Early Career (Fixed Term)

Shift Work

No