Discovery Postdoctoral Fellow / Discovery Postdoctoral Fellowess

Job ID

REQ-10054856

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 in search of an independent, highly motivated, and dedicated researcher with a strong background in neuroinflammation, microglia biology, and advanced technical expertise in cellular modeling. You will assist the research team in elucidating the mechanisms of microglia modulation and their role in neurodegenerative diseases.

You will have access to state-of-the-art cellular models and proprietary tools designed to modulate targets of interest, aiming to clarify the signaling mechanisms involved in neuroinflammation biology. In this role, you will be supported by mentors with diverse educational backgrounds, scientific expertise, and drug development experience. Additionally, there exists a unique opportunity to collaborate with cross-functional teams and scientists from different departments, offering insights into various aspects of drug development.

As part of the Discovery Fellowship track within the Novartis Postdoctoral Fellowship Program, you will engage with a vibrant community of postdoctoral fellows, participating in events such as monthly seminars and various scheduled activities. You will be surrounded by a supportive, collaborative community committed to accelerating your scientific growth and enhancing your professional skillset. This program comprises up to three years, with the opportunity to request an extension of up to one additional year.

Discovery Postdoctoral Fellows have a unique chance to conduct innovative, interdisciplinary research and are expected to publish their findings in leading journals. Our work transcends scientific and organizational boundaries, focusing on powerful new technologies that have the potential to foster therapeutic breakthroughs for patients.

Through the Novartis Postdoctoral Fellowship Program, you will cultivate your skills as a drug hunter and a scientific leader in the field. You will become part of a professional network that supports your growth as a research scientist, allowing you to tackle significant health challenges and make a meaningful impact by reimagining medicine together.

Start Date: September 1, 2025

Location: Campus Basel, Switzerland

Major Accountabilities

As a Discovery Postdoctoral Fellow, you will:

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

Minimum Requirements

• PhD in Neuroscience.
• PhD students in the final year of their thesis work are eligible to apply. Applicants must be within two years of receiving their PhD (PhD degrees must be awarded May 2023 or later).
• Strong knowledge of microglia biology and a specific interest in studying neuro-glia cross talk.
• In-depth understanding of the current knowledge regarding the pathology of neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's Disease, Parkinson's Disease, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, and Multiple Sclerosis.
• Experience with complex cell culture models, including primary mouse neuronal cultures and hiPSC-derived cells, or the ability to generate stable genetically engineered cell lines.
• Basic computational experience is advantageous.
• 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 a boundless curiosity.

How to Apply

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

Accessibility and Accommodation

Novartis is dedicated to collaborating with and providing reasonable accommodations to all individuals. If you require reasonable accommodations due to a medical condition or disability, or if you need more information about the essential functions of a position, please email diversity.inclusion_ch@novartis.com, indicating the nature of your request and your contact information. Include the job requisition number in your message.

Why Novartis

Helping individuals affected by disease and their families requires more than innovative science. It demands a community of smart, passionate individuals like you. Together, we can collaborate, support, and inspire each other to achieve breakthroughs that can change patients’ lives. Ready to create a brighter future together? Learn more about us.

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Benefits and Rewards

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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