Job ID: REQ-10050374
Date: May 22, 2025
Location: Basel, Switzerland
Full time, onsite, #LI-onsite
Summary
6000! That's the number of associates in the Novartis BioMedical Research (BR). This division serves as the innovation engine of Novartis, concentrating on powerful new technologies that have the potential to foster therapeutic breakthroughs for patients.
At Novartis, we are reimagining medicine to enhance and extend people's lives. We utilize innovative science and technology to tackle some of society's most pressing healthcare challenges. We discover and develop groundbreaking treatments and seek new ways to deliver them to as many individuals as possible. Our vision is that the answers to advancing our science for patients lie in empowering curious, courageous, and collaborative individuals to ask new questions, make bold decisions, and take informed risks.
About the Role
Global Discovery Chemistry is seeking a passionate and creative PhD-level medicinal chemist to enhance our nucleotide and siRNA chemistry team in Basel. You will work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment at the interface of research and development to discover and develop novel siRNA therapies for high unmet medical needs.
Please note that we have the option to hire someone at a Principal Scientist level if this role level aligns better with the experience and skill set of the applicant.
Your Responsibilities
Your responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:
- Collaboration within a multidisciplinary project team to discover and develop novel oligonucleotide therapies across various disease areas.
- Leading a team of scientists dedicated to designing and synthesizing new nucleotide building blocks, linkers, and backbones from small to medium scale.
- Intellectually contributing to and owning the success of assigned projects, alongside project teams, to conceive, implement, and explore innovative siRNA chemistries.
- Leading siRNA drug discovery projects in partnership with leaders from other functions.
- Reviewing and critically analyzing data from projects using state-of-the-art data analysis and digital tools to identify complex problems and design solutions.
- Driving innovation for the establishment of new projects, collaborating with internal and external partners to advance our initiatives.
- Documenting and communicating results and scientific findings to internal and external audiences, including patent filings or scientific publications as appropriate.
- Supporting and developing team members by sharing your knowledge and hands-on experience.
- Providing mentorship to scientists and leading their development, regardless of reporting lines or group affiliation.
What You Will Bring to the Role
- A PhD degree focusing on the synthesis and design of oligonucleotides.
- Demonstrated expertise in medicinal chemistry, especially with oligonucleotides, and a track record of contributions over 8+ years.
- Experience in solid-phase oligonucleotide synthesis is advantageous.
- A proven record of leadership and talent development skills.
- A mindset of curiosity and openness to diverse thinking, coupled with an enthusiasm for personal and team development.
- Innovative and independent problem-solving abilities.
- Interest in disruptive technologies and science trends, such as data science and automation, and their application to drug discovery.
- Aptitude for working in a fast-paced, team-oriented, matrix environment.
- Excellent communication skills with the ability to present and discuss strategies and challenges effectively.
Why Novartis
Our purpose at Novartis is to reimagine medicine to improve and extend lives, and our vision is to be the most valued and trusted medicine company globally. Our people are at the heart of this mission, driving us daily towards our goals. Join us and be a part of this journey!
Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
Novartis is dedicated to creating an exceptional, inclusive workplace and building diverse teams that reflect the patients and communities we serve.
Apply online using the form below.
Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.