Novartis Pharma AG - June 6, 2025

Job ID

REQ-10043484

Date: May 13, 2025

Location: Basel, Switzerland

Summary

We are seeking a highly motivated and curious Principal Scientist to join our xRNA Team within Biomedical Research based in Basel. This pivotal role focuses on siRNA discovery and will contribute significantly to the development of next-generation xRNA therapeutics. Our collaborative and innovation-driven environment aims to transform the lives of millions of patients with unmet medical needs. The ideal candidate will possess strong experience in siRNA biology and/or therapeutics, playing a key role in mentoring lab team members and advancing the xRNA platform.

About the Role

Key Responsibilities:

Lead matrix-oriented platform teams for the development of siRNA therapeutics.
Conduct end-to-end NGS experiments, including library preparation, sequencing, and analysis.
Drive innovation through data mining and hypothesis generation, collaborating across Biomedical Research.
Design, plan, and supervise siRNA cell-based screening activities.
Develop and optimize novel assays focused on improving throughput with automation.
Supervise and mentor junior scientists in both laboratory and data analysis tasks.
Represent the xRNA team on cross-functional project teams to advance siRNA programs.
Document experiments in lab notebooks, perform data analysis, and present findings promptly.

Role Requirements:

PhD in biochemistry, biology, or a related scientific discipline.
3 - 5 years of post-PhD research experience in academia as a Postdoc and/or in industry.
Research experience in siRNA biology; knowledge of siRNA therapeutics is advantageous.
Strong genomics background with expertise in RNA-Seq from experimental design to data processing.
Ability to run R scripts independently.
Proficient in mammalian cell culture, covering both immortalized and primary cells.
Experience collaborating with cross-functional teams, serving as a key point of contact.
Exceptional multi-tasking, organizational, attention to detail, and verbal/written communication skills.
Able to collaborate and thrive in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.

Desired Requirements:

Expertise with BioMek or Opentrons liquid handlers.
Proficient in R and/or Python; machine learning experience is a plus.

Restrictions on working flexibility may apply to this position and can be discussed during the interview as required.

Accessibility and Accommodation

Novartis is dedicated to working with and providing reasonable accommodations for all individuals. If you require accommodations due to a medical condition or disability at any stage of the recruitment process, please reach out via email at inclusion.switzerland@novartis.com, including the job requisition number in your message.

Why Novartis

Helping people with diseases and their families requires more than innovative science; it takes a community of smart, passionate individuals like you. Together, we can achieve breakthroughs that change patients' lives. Are you ready to create a brighter future with us?

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Benefits and Rewards

Discover how we support your personal and professional growth by reading our handbook: Novartis Benefits & Rewards.

How to Apply

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

Principal Scientist I - siRNA (80-100%) / Principal Scientist I - siRNA (80-100%)