Research Scientist / Research Scientistess

Job ID

REQ-10076037

Date: May 08, 2026

Location: Switzerland

Summary

The Biomedical Research (BR) division serves as the innovation engine of Novartis, concentrating on groundbreaking approaches to develop therapeutic breakthroughs for patients. The Discovery Sciences department (DSc) at BR spearheads drug discovery projects and champions innovative drug modalities.

The DNA-encoded chemical library (DEL) group in DSc Basel, Switzerland, is seeking a highly motivated, curious, and innovative Research Scientist eager to make a significant impact on drug discovery. Our mission is to accelerate the identification and optimization of novel low molecular weight (LMW) drugs, radioligand therapeutics (RLTs), siRNAs, and other emerging therapeutic modalities using state-of-the-art technologies. Specifically, we apply and develop DEL technology to discover LMW and peptide binders for disease-relevant targets as a novel path to advanced medicines. Our group is part of the larger Drug Discovery team in DSc, a highly collaborative environment working at the intersection of biology and chemistry to advance drug discovery.

About the Role

Position Location: Onsite, Basel, CH #LI-onsite

The DNA-encoded chemical library (DEL) group in DSc Basel, Switzerland, is looking for a highly motivated, curious, and innovative Research Scientist who is eager to impact drug discovery. Our mission is to accelerate the identification and optimization of novel low molecular weight (LMW) drugs, radioligand therapeutics (RLTs), siRNAs, and emerging therapeutic modalities utilizing state-of-the-art technologies. We focus on discovering LMW and peptide binders targeting disease-relevant objectives through DEL technology as a new pathway to therapeutic advancements. Our group is part of the broader Drug Discovery home in DSc, which promotes a collaborative atmosphere at the intersection of biology and chemistry for drug development.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct all experimental aspects related to DEL screening for early drug discovery projects, including the preparation of key reagents.
• Execute DEL screening campaigns, interpret results, recognize when procedures are not working, and support troubleshooting efforts.
• Experimentally innovate and further develop existing DEL selection methods, particularly towards emerging modalities.
• Analyze experimental data and effectively communicate results at internal meetings.
• Collaborate closely within multidisciplinary project teams and contribute to a positive team environment.

Essential Requirements

• MS equivalent in a scientific discipline such as biology, chemistry, or pharmacology; or BS/apprenticeship with relevant experience in drug discovery.
• Strong wet-lab experience in molecular biology, biochemistry, or biophysics, particularly focusing on the manipulation and analysis of oligonucleotides and proteins.
• Ability to adapt to scientific challenges and generate innovative solutions.
• Enthusiasm for exploring novel technologies and approaches to advance drug discovery.
• Collaborative and self-motivated team player, with strong scientific and technical thinking.
• Excellent interpersonal and organizational skills.
• Good communication skills in both oral and written English.

Desirable Requirements

• Interdisciplinary interest at the intersection of chemistry, biology, and technology.
• Practical and/or theoretical knowledge of encoded library screening, including DEL, mRNA, or phage-display.
• Experience with applying and developing computational tools for analyzing large datasets.
• Experience in identifying and characterizing LMW and peptide ligands.
• Programming experience in lab automation and NGS data analysis.
• Familiarity with working in a highly productive and fast-paced environment.

Accessibility and Accommodation

Novartis is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to all individuals. If you require reasonable accommodation due to a medical condition or disability during any part of the recruitment process, please reach out to us via email at inclusion.switzerland@novartis.com, detailing the nature of your request and providing your contact information. Remember to include the job requisition number in your message.

Why Novartis

Helping people affected by disease and their families requires more than innovative science; it necessitates a community of passionate individuals like you. Let’s collaborate, support, and inspire each other to achieve breakthroughs that transform patients' lives. Are you ready to create a brighter future together? Learn more about our culture and values.

Benefits and Rewards

Discover all the ways we’ll support your personal and professional growth. Read our handbook.

Employment Details

• 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

Research Scientist, DNA-encoded Chemical Libraries (DEL) (80-100%*)

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