Job ID
REQ-10066548
Posted On
November 18, 2025
Location
Basel, Switzerland (#onsite)
Role Purpose
We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced PhD-level scientist to lead our mid/large xRNA synthesis team in Basel. This position requires extensive collaboration within a multidisciplinary environment, bridging research and development to discover and advance innovative siRNA therapies addressing 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 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, optimizing 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 the industry.
- 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 representative of the patients and communities we serve.
Accessibility and Accommodation
Novartis is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to all individuals. If, due to a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the recruitment process, or in order to receive more detailed information about the essential functions of a position, please send an e-mail to inclusion.switzerland@novartis.com and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Please include the job requisition number in your message.
Why Novartis
Helping people with disease and their families takes more than innovative science. It takes a community of smart, passionate people like you. Collaborating, supporting, and inspiring each other to achieve breakthroughs that change patients' lives. Ready to create a brighter future together? Visit: Novartis People and Culture
Benefits and Rewards
To learn about all the ways we support your personal and professional growth, please read our handbook: Novartis Benefits and Rewards
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
Application Information
Apply online using the form below. Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered.