Location: Basel, Switzerland
Novartis xRNA Therapeutics is currently searching for a passionate and experienced PhD-level scientist to lead mid to large-scale oligonucleotide synthesis and manage a dedicated team in Basel, contributing to the advancement of our xRNA Therapeutics development. This role requires extensive collaboration within a multidisciplinary environment, aiming to bridge research and development and facilitate the discovery of innovative siRNA therapies that address significant unmet medical needs.
Key Responsibilities
- Plan and execute medium- and large-scale solid-phase synthesis, purification, and analysis of chemically modified oligonucleotides and conjugates.
- Oversee a state-of-the-art oligonucleotide synthesis facility, including efficient management of capital and consumables budgets.
- Lead and mentor a team of scientists specializing in oligonucleotide synthesis, purification, analysis, and downstream processing at the millimole scale to support our expanding siRNA portfolio.
- Ensure timely delivery of high-quality siRNA materials for in vitro screening and in vivo studies within drug candidate pipelines.
- Collaborate with discovery xRNA oligonucleotide synthesis teams based in Basel and Cambridge.
- Provide technical leadership to the scale-up team, optimizing methodologies and processes for enhanced oligonucleotide synthesis efficiency.
- Partner with synthetic chemists and project teams to scale up new siRNA chemistries that address key scientific challenges and enable seamless progression into development.
- Document and communicate scientific findings to internal and external stakeholders through scientific publications.
- Mentor, train, and support team members by sharing technical expertise and hands-on experience.
- Demonstrate strong problem-solving skills and maintain a solution-oriented mindset.
What You Will Bring to the Role
- Ph.D. in Chemistry with a focus on oligonucleotide synthesis, plus 2–3 years of industry experience.
- Proven track record in mid/large scale oligonucleotide solid-phase synthesis using automated synthesizers, and downstream processing including expertise in process development.
- Demonstrated leadership capabilities and experience in developing scientific teams.
- Ability to promote and implement innovative ideas within a global team environment.
- Strong independent problem-solving skills.
- Highly collaborative mindset.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities effectively while maintaining focus on key objectives.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Application Process
Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.
Accessibility and Accommodation
Novartis is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to all individuals. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the recruitment process due to a medical condition or disability, please reach out to inclusion.switzerland@novartis.com with details of your request and your contact information. Please include the job requisition number in your message.