Principal Scientist / Principal Scientistess

Job ID: REQ-10084190

Date: Aug 17, 2026

Location: Basel, Switzerland

Role Purpose

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 will support the advancement of xRNA Therapeutics development and requires extensive collaboration within a multidisciplinary environment, bridging research and development to enable the discovery and advancement of innovative RNA therapies addressing significant unmet medical needs.

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.
• Mentor and lead a team of scientists specialized in oligonucleotide synthesis, purification, analysis, and conjugation at millimole scale.
• Collaborate with global discovery, development, and project teams to advance novel oligonucleotide chemistries.
• Identify and implement innovative technologies and workflows to enhance production capabilities and turnaround times for siRNA, ASO, and other oligonucleotide modalities.
• Effectively communicate scientific findings and project updates to internal and external stakeholders through presentations, technical reports, and patent applications.
• Maintain high-quality scientific documentation, including electronic laboratory notebooks (ELNs) and experimental protocols.
• 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 with proven expertise in mid- and large-scale oligonucleotide solid-phase synthesis and related processes.
• Extensive experience operating and maintaining AKTA Oligopilot/Oligosynt systems and AKTA Avant purification platforms, with strong proficiency in Unicorn software.
• 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 people who make it happen.

Expected Annual Base Salary Range for this role: 93,800.00 - 174,200.00 CHF. This base salary 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 upon joining Novartis.

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 personally and professionally, including insurance plans, retirement plans, well-being resources, and global recognition programs. Flexible and hybrid working options are also available, along with 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. Our Code of Ethics outlines our dedication to treating all employees with dignity and respect.

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

Note: Benefits and compensation may vary by country and are subject to local legal requirements, including provisions of collective bargaining agreements where applicable.

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 dedicated to providing reasonable accommodation for individuals with medical conditions or disabilities. If you require assistance during the recruitment process or would like more information about a position, please contact us at diversity.inclusion_ch@novartis.com. Please include the job requisition number in your message.

Why Novartis?

Helping people with disease and their families requires more than innovative science. It takes a community of smart, passionate individuals. Together, we achieve breakthroughs that change patients' lives. Ready to create a brighter future together?

Apply online using the form below.

Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.