Principal Scientist / Principal Scientistess

Job ID

REQ-10084190

August 17, 2026

Location: Basel, Switzerland

Available in: English

Summary

#LI-Onsite

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 to support our xRNA Therapeutics development. This role requires extensive collaboration within a multidisciplinary environment, bridging research and development to enable the discovery and advancement of 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 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 related documentation.
• 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 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 ability to work effectively in a matrixed cross-functional global teams environment.

Benefits & Rewards

At Novartis, we are committed to reimagining medicine together and rewarding the individuals 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. It will be reviewed periodically.

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 extend 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, well-being resources, and global recognition programs. Furthermore, we provide flexible and hybrid working options, where possible, and a minimum of 14 weeks paid parental leave.

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

Read our brochure to learn more about our global total rewards offering: 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, including any relevant collective bargaining agreement details applicable to your role based on your employment location and Novartis employer entity, will be communicated separately during the recruitment process.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

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

Accessibility and Accommodation

Novartis is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to all individuals. If, due to 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 specify 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 takes more than innovative science. It requires a community of smart, passionate individuals like you—collaborating, supporting, and inspiring each other to achieve breakthroughs that change patients' lives. Ready to create a brighter future together? Learn more about Novartis.

Application Process

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

Primary location salary range: CHF 93,800.00 - CHF 174,200.00

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

Principal Scientist - Mid/Large Scale Oligonucleotide Synthesis, xRNA Therapeutics