Job opportunity

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

Novartis Pharma AG BASEL October 4, 2026

Job ID: REQ-10084148

Date: August 04, 2026

Location: Basel, Switzerland

Summary

Internal Title: Senior Principal Scientist or Associate Director

The Modeling & Simulation group within PK Sciences is seeking a highly skilled Principal Scientist to Associate Director level modeler. The successful candidate will focus on developing and applying translational physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling, alongside advanced data analysis techniques, to facilitate drug discovery, development, and translational research across various disease areas.

The ideal candidate should possess experience with regulatory submissions and effective regulatory interactions. The core responsibilities will include integrating in vitro and in vivo data for drug-drug interaction (DDI) assessments, evaluating the impact of biopharmaceutical properties on absorption, and providing pharmacokinetic (PK) predictions in humans, including specific populations (e.g., disease, organ impairment, pediatrics). This role aims to enhance the safe administration of our drug candidates in clinical settings, optimize clinical trial designs, and streamline processes to expedite getting our medicines to 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 and assess the potential for DDI.
  • Understand the clinical impact of disease on drug exposure and apply biopharmaceutical PBPK modeling for formulation changes.
  • Integrate PK/PD data, along with ADME and DDI findings.
  • Effectively interpret and communicate modeling results and their implications to project teams.
  • Prepare summary documents for regulatory submissions and respond to health authority inquiries independently.

Essential Requirements:

  • PhD in pharmaceutical sciences or related discipline with a strong background in ADME/DMPK sciences, biopharmaceutics, and modeling and simulation.
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry, demonstrating knowledge and expertise in PBPK modeling.
  • Hands-on experience with PBPK modeling tools such as PK-Sim, Simcyp, or GastroPlus is essential.
  • Experience with modeling software such as Monolix, R, Phoenix, or Nonmem is desirable.
  • Proficient in authoring regulatory documents and knowledgeable about global regulatory requirements and guidance.
  • A broad understanding of drug discovery and development, including pharmacokinetics, drug delivery, formulation, 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 with proven experience as modelers in the pharmaceutical or biotech industry may be considered for either the Principal Scientist II (5+ years) or Associate Director (8+ years) roles. The final level and title will be determined by the hiring team based on the candidate's skills, experience, and capabilities.

Benefits & Rewards

At Novartis, we are committed to reimagining medicine together and recognizing those who contribute to this vision. The expected annual base salary for this role ranges from CHF 122,500 to CHF 227,500. The offered salary is based on gender-neutral criteria, including relevant skills, competencies, and experience, in accordance with Novartis' compensation policy which is reviewed periodically.

In addition to your base salary, you may be eligible for a performance-based bonus dependent on specific performance metrics. The rewards of being part of our team extend beyond base pay and incentives. We offer competitive benefits to support both personal and professional growth, including:

  • Comprehensive insurance and retirement plans.
  • Wellbeing resources and global recognition programs.
  • Flexible and hybrid working options where applicable.
  • A minimum of 14 weeks paid parental leave.

Long-term equity awards granted at group level may be part of your package, with further details provided during the application process.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

Novartis is dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment that reflects the communities we serve. We believe in treating all employees with dignity and respect in accordance with our Code of Ethics.

Accessibility and Accommodation

We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with medical conditions or disabilities during the recruitment process. For any specific needs, please contact us directly.

Why Novartis?

Joining Novartis means being part of a community of smart, passionate individuals dedicated to achieving breakthroughs that change lives. Ready to be part of our mission to create a brighter future together? Learn more about our culture and commitment to diversity.

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Work locationBASEL, Switzerland

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