Principal Scientist I/II, Oncology Drug Discovery Biology / Principal Scientistess I/II, Oncology Drug Discovery Biology

Job ID

REQ-10081528

Date

Jun 22, 2026

Location

Switzerland, Basel - Onsite
#LI-Onsite
Novartis cannot offer relocation for this role, please apply if this location is accessible to you.

About Us

Novartis Biomedical Research (BR) is the innovation engine of Novartis, where deep disease biology meets bold therapeutic innovation. In Oncology Drug Discovery Biology, we translate a precise understanding of cancer mechanisms into new therapeutic concepts and modalities. We are seeking a Ph.D.-level scientist with a strong track record in cancer biology to join our Oncology Research team in Basel, lead a laboratory, and help discover the next generation of oncology medicines for patients with high unmet medical need.

About the Role

You will bring deep cancer biology expertise to generate, shape, and test bold new ideas for oncology drug discovery. Working with scientific peers and cross-functional partners, you will define and execute cutting-edge experimental strategies, generate high-quality data, validate targets and concepts, establish relevant cellular assays, and support the optimization and characterization of new molecular entities toward clinical proof of concept. Success in this role will require strong hands-on expertise in molecular and cell biology, rigorous experimental thinking to drive the mechanistic dissection of intracellular and cell surface targets, the ability to leverage bioinformatics and genome- and proteome-wide technologies to answer key biological questions, and knowledge in cutting-edge modalities and assays in emerging spaces such as Induced Proximity.

Major Accountabilities include:

• Lead a Drug Discovery Biology laboratory, guiding, supervising, and developing scientific associates to deliver high-quality experimental science.
• Apply rigorous statistical thinking to large-scale datasets or other pertinent sources to identify new biological insights and therapeutic opportunities.
• Design and execute smart and innovative experimental strategies that generate interpretable data, test hypotheses, answer key scientific questions, and move projects forward.
• Implement cutting-edge technologies for target identification, validation, and structure/function studies and eventually drive drug discovery programs from inception through all stages.
• Partner closely across Oncology expertise groups and with teams across the global Novartis organization.
• Communicate scientific concepts and project progress clearly, objectively, and data-driven across different settings and audiences.
• Manage laboratory resources flexibly and effectively as priorities evolve.

Minimum Requirements

• Ph.D. in cancer biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, or a related field, with limited (up to 5 years) postdoctoral experience preferred.
• Evidenced productivity and proven ability to deliver high-quality results in a fast-paced, productive, and competitive scientific environment.
• Experience in drug discovery and project leadership in biotech or pharmaceutical settings is a plus.
• Experience with microscopy and imaging technologies is a plus.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills across a broad range of topics and adapted to a variety of audiences.
• Proven ability to coach, mentor, and develop team members.
• Fluency in English, oral and written.

Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion

We are committed to building an outstanding, inclusive work environment and diverse teams representative of the patients and communities we serve.

Benefits & Rewards

At Novartis, we’re dedicated to reimagining medicine together and rewarding the people who make it happen.

Expected Annual Base Salary Range for Role: 93,800 to 174,200 CHF

The base salary offered is determined based on gender-neutral objectives, such as relevant skills, competencies, and experience in accordance with the Novartis pay-setting policy, and will be reviewed periodically upon joining Novartis.

In addition to your base salary, you may be eligible for a performance-based bonus depending on certain performance parameters.

The rewards of being part of our team go far beyond base pay and incentives. We offer a variety of competitive benefits to help you thrive personally and professionally, such as insurance plans, retirement plans, well-being resources, and global recognition programs. We also provide flexible and hybrid working options where possible, along with a minimum of 14 weeks paid parental leave.

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 drive us each day to reach our ambitions. Be a part of this mission and join us!

Learn more here: Novartis - People and Culture

Join Our Novartis Network

If this role is not suitable for your experience or career goals but you wish to stay connected to learn more about Novartis and our career opportunities, join the Novartis Network here: Novartis Network

Accessibility and Accommodation

Novartis is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to all individuals. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the recruitment process, or to receive more detailed information about the essential functions of a position, please send an e-mail to diversity.inclusion_ch@novartis.com and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Please include the job requisition number in your message.

Apply

Apply online using the form below. Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered.