Principal Scientist / Principal Scientistess

Job ID: REQ-10084190

Location: Basel, Switzerland

Date Posted: July 28, 2026

Available in: English

Summary

Novartis xRNA Therapeutics is seeking a passionate, highly motivated, and experienced PhD-level scientist to lead mid/large-scale oligonucleotide synthesis activities and manage a team at our Basel site. This role is critical in supporting our xRNA Therapeutics development efforts. It requires extensive collaboration within a multidisciplinary environment, bridging research and development to advance innovative RNA therapies that address significant unmet medical needs.

About the Role

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and execute medium- and large-scale solid-phase synthesis, purification, and analysis of chemically modified oligonucleotides (siRNAs, ASOs, and other emerging synthetic modalities) and conjugates to support our xRNA therapeutics portfolio.
• Mentor and lead a team of scientists specializing in oligonucleotide synthesis, purification, analysis, and conjugation at the millimole scale.
• Collaborate with global discovery, development, and project teams to advance novel oligonucleotide chemistries and facilitate their successful transition from research into development.
• Identify and implement innovative technologies, workflows, and manufacturing approaches to enhance operational excellence, production capabilities, and turnaround times of siRNA, ASO, and other oligonucleotide modalities supporting in vivo and preclinical studies.
• Communicate scientific findings and project updates effectively to internal and external stakeholders through presentations, technical reports, and patent submissions.
• Maintain high-quality scientific documentation, including electronic laboratory notebooks (ELNs), experimental protocols, technical reports, and project summaries.
• Foster a culture of scientific excellence, collaboration, continuous learning, and solution-oriented problem-solving.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Ph.D. in Chemistry or related disciplines with a strong focus on oligonucleotide chemistry and synthesis.
• Minimum 2-3 years of industry experience and proven expertise in mid- to large-scale oligonucleotide solid phase synthesis, purification, analysis, conjugation, and other related processes.
• Extensive experience operating and maintaining AKTA Oligopilot/Oligosynt systems and AKTA Avant purification platforms, with strong proficiency in Unicorn software.
• Strong hands-on experience with process development, method optimization, and scale-up strategies of oligonucleotides.
• Demonstrated leadership experience, including mentoring and team management.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively in matrixed, cross-functional global teams.

Benefits & Rewards

At Novartis, we are committed to reimagining medicine together and rewarding the people who make it happen.

Expected Annual Base Salary Range for the Role: 93,800.00 - 174,200.00 CHF Annual

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.

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

Beyond base pay and incentives, we offer a variety of competitive benefits to help you thrive both personally and professionally, such as insurance plans, retirement plans, wellbeing resources, and global recognition programs. We also provide flexible and hybrid working options where possible, along with a minimum of 14 weeks of paid parental leave.

Pay equity is a fundamental principle of our employment policy, reflecting our commitment to creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment where all employees are treated with dignity and respect, as outlined in our Code of Ethics.

To learn more about our global total rewards offering, please read our brochure: Novartis Life Handbook.

Note: Benefits and compensation may vary by country and are subject to local legal requirements, including provisions of collective bargaining agreements where applicable. A full overview of your compensation package will be communicated separately.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

Novartis is dedicated to building an outstanding, inclusive work environment and diverse teams that represent the patients and communities we serve.

Accessibility and Accommodation

If you require reasonable accommodation due to a medical condition or disability during the recruitment process, please reach out to diversity.inclusion_ch@novartis.com and provide details about your request as well as your contact information. Please include the job requisition number in your message.

Why Novartis?

Helping people with diseases and their families takes more than innovative science; it takes a community of smart, passionate individuals like you. Join us in collaborating, supporting, and inspiring one another to achieve breakthroughs that change patients' lives. Ready to create a brighter future together? Learn more.

Application Process

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