Senior Principal Scientist / Senior Principal Scientistess / Associate Director Clinical PBPK

Job ID: REQ-10084148

Date Posted: August 04, 2026

Location: Basel, Switzerland

Summary

The Modeling & Simulation group within PK Sciences is seeking a Senior Principal Scientist or Associate Director level modeler to develop and apply translational physiologically-based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling combined with data analysis techniques. This role aims to facilitate drug discovery, development, and translational research across various disease areas. The ideal candidate will possess experience with regulatory submissions and successful regulatory interactions.

The core responsibilities of this position include:

• Conducting PBPK modeling to integrate in vitro and in vivo data for drug-drug interaction (DDI) assessments.
• Assessing the impact of biopharmaceutical properties on absorption and pharmacokinetic (PK) predictions in humans and specific populations (e.g., disease, organ impairment, pediatrics).
• Utilizing PBPK models to ensure the safe administration of drug candidates in clinical settings, optimize clinical trial designs, and potentially waive certain trials to expedite access to medicines for patients.

About the Role

Key Responsibilities:

• Act as an expert PBPK modeler, providing translational modeling support for global drug discovery and development projects.
• Perform translational PBPK analyses to predict clinical drug exposure in specific populations, assess potential DDI, and understand the clinical impact of disease on drug exposure.
• Apply biopharmaceutical PBPK modeling to support formulation changes and achieve clinical biowaivers.
• Integrate PK/PD data, ADME findings, and DDI insights.
• Communicate modeling results and their potential implications to project teams effectively.
• Prepare summary documents for regulatory submissions and respond independently to health authority inquiries.

Essential Requirements:

• PhD in pharmaceutical sciences or a related discipline with experience in ADME/DMPK sciences, biopharmaceutics, and modeling and simulation.
• At least 5 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry, demonstrating expertise in PBPK modeling.
• Hands-on experience with PBPK modeling tools such as PK-Sim, Simcyp, or GastroPlus is required.
• Experience with additional modeling software (e.g., Monolix, R, Phoenix, or Nonmem) is preferred.
• Proficiency in authoring regulatory documents and understanding global regulatory requirements.
• Comprehensive knowledge of drug discovery and development processes, including pharmacokinetics, drug delivery, formulation, ADME, and DDI.

This is a hybrid role requiring a balance of in-person and virtual work, with an average of 12 days per month on-site in Basel, Switzerland. Candidates demonstrating significant impact in modeling, preferably within the pharmaceutical/biotech sector, may be considered for either the Principal Scientist II (5+ years) or Associate Director (8+ years) role. The final title and level will be determined by the hiring team based on the candidate's qualifications and capabilities.

Benefits & Rewards

At Novartis, we are dedicated to reimagining medicine together and appreciate the efforts of those who contribute to our mission.

Expected Annual Base Salary Range: CHF 122,500.00 - CHF 227,500.00

The offered base salary is defined using gender-neutral criteria, including relevant skills, competencies, and experience. Your salary will be reviewed periodically upon joining Novartis.

In addition to your base salary, you may be eligible for a performance-based bonus linked to specific performance parameters. The benefits of joining our team extend beyond salary and bonuses, encompassing a competitive range of employee benefits designed to support your personal and professional well-being, including insurance plans, retirement options, wellness resources, and global recognition programs. We also offer flexible and hybrid working arrangements when possible, as well as a minimum of 14 weeks of paid parental leave.

Pay equity is a cornerstone of our employment approach, reflecting our commitment to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment wherein all employees are treated with dignity and respect.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

Novartis is dedicated to cultivating an outstanding and inclusive workplace with diverse teams representative of the patients and communities we serve. We are committed to collaborating with individuals who need reasonable accommodations throughout the recruitment process. If, due to a medical condition or disability, you require accommodations or further details about the essential functions of a position, please contact us at diversity.inclusion_ch@novartis.com and include the job requisition number in your email.

Why Novartis

Helping individuals with diseases and their families requires more than innovative science; it necessitates a community of smart, passionate individuals like you. Collaborating, supporting, and inspiring one another, we work together to achieve breakthroughs that transform patients' lives. Are you ready to create a brighter future together?

Application Instructions

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