Senior Scientist - Small Scale Oligonucleotide Synthesis / Senior Scientistess - Small Scale Oligonucleotide Synthesis

Job ID

REQ-10071301

Feb 11, 2026

Switzerland

Summary

Location: Basel, Switzerland
Full time, onsite, #LI-Onsite

At Novartis, we are reimagining medicine to improve and extend people's lives. We leverage innovative science and technology to tackle some of society's most challenging healthcare issues. Our mission is to discover and develop breakthrough treatments and find new ways to deliver them to as many patients as possible. We believe that the answers to advancing our science lie in empowering curious, courageous, and collaborative individuals to ask innovative questions, make bolder decisions, and take calculated risks.

Situated at the heart of Novartis’ purpose in Basel, Switzerland, our Biomedical Research team is dedicated to designing and creating new molecules for patient treatment. We are in search of a highly motivated and passionate researcher with a strong scientific background in chemistry or related life sciences, a curious mindset, and cultural agility to invent innovative medicines and push the boundaries of drug discovery. Join us and help reimagine medicine!

About the Role

The Biomedical Research RNAi Initiative is seeking an enthusiastic and creative scientist to join our RNA synthesis team. You will collaborate in a multidisciplinary environment at the intersection of research and development to discover and develop novel siRNA therapies for high unmet medical needs.

Your Responsibilities

• Plan and execute small-scale oligonucleotide syntheses using array-based, automated synthesis technologies.
• Conduct experiments in a top-tier laboratory environment and provide novel siRNAs to support therapeutic siRNA projects.
• Work closely with the project team to integrate experimental data, develop scientific hypotheses, and prioritize new oligonucleotide chemistries to address key project questions.
• Support and coach team members by sharing your expertise and experience in the work environment.
• Communicate scientific results effectively during internal meetings and research discussions.
• Maintain high levels of laboratory safety and infrastructure.

What You Will Bring to the Role

• A Master's degree and a minimum of 3 years of industry experience in a pharmaceutical lab with a focus on synthetic organic chemistry. Consideration may be given to PhD graduates within 6 months of their defense.
• Practical knowledge in small-scale oligonucleotide synthesis is essential.
• Experience in conjugating to linkers, modifiers, and payloads is advantageous.
• A passion for automated oligonucleotide chemistry experimentation in the laboratory.
• The ability to critically interpret results, develop new experimental hypotheses, and make smart decisions.
• An interest in disruptive technologies and science trends, such as novel drug modalities and automation, and their application in drug discovery and development.
• A curious, creative, collaborative mindset with a commitment to personal and team development.
• An organized working style with attention to detail, flexibility, and a commitment to high quality.
• Aptitude for thriving in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment, contributing to siRNA discovery and development.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.

Accessibility and Accommodation

Novartis is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to all individuals. If you require accommodations due to a medical condition or disability during the recruitment process, or if you need further information regarding the essential functions of a position, please reach out via email to inclusion.switzerland@novartis.com. Be sure to include the job requisition number in your message.

Why Novartis?

Helping people affected by disease and their families takes more than innovative science. It requires a community of bright, passionate individuals like you—collaborating, supporting, and inspiring one another to achieve breakthroughs that transform patients’ lives. Are you ready to shape a brighter future together? Learn more about our people and culture.

Benefits and Rewards

Discover all the ways we will help you thrive personally and professionally.
Apply online using the form below.

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

Senior Scientist - Small Scale Oligonucleotide Synthesis (80-100%*)

Apply online using the form below.