Job ID
REQ-10066548
Date Posted: Nov 18, 2025
Location: Basel, Switzerland (Onsite)
Summary
We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced PhD-level scientist to lead our mid/large xRNA synthesis team in Basel. This role requires extensive collaboration within a multidisciplinary environment, bridging research and development to discover and advance innovative siRNA therapies that address significant unmet medical needs.
About the Role
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee a state-of-the-art oligonucleotide synthesis facility, managing both capital and consumables budgets efficiently.
- Lead and guide a team of scientists specializing in oligonucleotide synthesis and purification of oligonucleotides at the millimole scale to deliver on our growing siRNA portfolio.
- Ensure the delivery of high-quality siRNA products for both in vitro screening and in vivo evaluation within drug candidate pipelines.
- Collaborate with discovery xRNA existing oligonucleotide synthesis teams in Basel as well as in Cambridge.
- Provide technical leadership to the scale-up team in the synthesis of oligonucleotides, and optimize methodologies and processes to improve efficiencies.
- Collaborate with synthetic chemists and project teams to scale up new siRNA chemistries that address critical scientific challenges and facilitate their seamless transition into development.
- Document and effectively communicate results and scientific insights to internal and external stakeholders through patent applications and scientific publications.
- Mentor and support team members by sharing technical expertise and hands-on experience within the work environment.
- Demonstrate excellent problem solving skills and a solution-oriented mindset.
Qualifications and Requirements
- A PhD in synthetic chemistry focused on oligonucleotides with 2-3 years of experience in an industry setting.
- Proven practical experience in oligonucleotide solid phase synthesis and downstream processing, with expertise in mid/large scale oligo synthesis and process development.
- Demonstrated leadership abilities and experience in developing scientific teams.
- Capacity to promote and implement innovative ideas within a global team context.
- Strong independent problem-solving skills.
- Proven collaborative attitude.
- Proficiency in managing multiple priorities effectively while maintaining focus where necessary.
- Excellent verbal and written communication abilities.
Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
Novartis is committed to building an outstanding, inclusive work environment and diverse teams that represent the patients and communities we serve.
Accessibility and Accommodation
Novartis is dedicated to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to all individuals. If you require assistance due to a medical condition or disability during the recruitment process, please contact inclusion.switzerland@novartis.com and specify the nature of your request along with your contact information. Please include the job requisition number in your message.
Why Novartis
Helping people with disease and their families involves more than just innovative science; it requires a community of smart, passionate individuals like you. We collaborate, support, and inspire one another, combining our efforts to achieve breakthroughs that change patients' lives. Are you ready to create a brighter future together? Learn more about our mission here.
Benefits and Rewards
Explore our handbook to discover all the ways we support your personal and professional growth: here.
Application Information
Apply online using the form below. Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered.
Division: Biomedical Research
Business Unit: Research
Location: Switzerland
Site: Basel (City)
Company / Legal Entity: C028 (FCRS = CH028) Novartis Pharma AG
Functional Area: Research & Development
Job Type: Full time
Employment Type: Regular
Shift Work: No
Work locationBASEL, Switzerland