Job opportunity

USP Research Scientist II / USP Research Scientistess II

Novartis Pharma AG BASEL September 6, 2026

Job Summary

Job ID: REQ-10085492

Work Arrangement: Onsite, #LI-Onsite

Location: Basel, Switzerland

Relocation Support: This role is based in Basel, Switzerland. Novartis is unable to offer relocation support; please only apply if accessible.

About the Role

Imagine helping bring the next generation of life-changing biologic medicines to patients around the world. As an Upstream Process (USP) Research Scientist II within the Biologics Research Center at Novartis, you will play a hands-on role in advancing our innovative biologics pipeline through cutting-edge mammalian protein expression technologies. Working alongside a collaborative team of scientists, you will contribute to the development and production of recombinant proteins and antibodies that support groundbreaking research programs. This is an exciting opportunity for a curious, driven scientist who enjoys solving complex scientific challenges, embracing new technologies, and making a meaningful impact on the future of medicine in a world-class research environment.

Key Responsibilities

  • Execute mammalian cell culture processes to produce recombinant antibodies, antibody fragments, and therapeutic proteins.
  • Expand and maintain suspension cell cultures from laboratory to pilot scale manufacturing volumes.
  • Operate single-use bioreactor systems to support high-quality protein expression programs.
  • Design, perform, and analyze experiments to resolve technical challenges and optimize processes.
  • Evaluate scientific literature and apply innovative technologies to improve research outcomes.
  • Maintain laboratory readiness through equipment management and preparation of sterile production materials.
  • Document findings, communicate results, and actively contribute to multidisciplinary project discussions.

Essential Requirements

  • Master’s Degree in Life Sciences plus relevant industry experience of sterile mammalian cell culture or bioprocessing.
  • Strong hands-on experience with mammalian cell technologies, stable cell lines, and sterile laboratory techniques.
  • Hands-on experience with Wave Systems.
  • Knowledge of suspension cell culture systems and large-scale cell expansion workflows.
  • The ability to follow platform-based approaches with a curiosity and exploratory mindset to think about how improvements can be made.
  • Ability to rapidly learn and apply new scientific technologies, methodologies, and laboratory equipment.
  • Proven ability to prioritize workloads, manage timelines, and deliver high-quality results.
  • Excellent communication and collaboration skills with a proactive, quality-focused approach to teamwork. Proficiency in English, both written and spoken, is essential. German is advantageous.

Desirable Requirements

  • Experience in Molecular Biology.
  • Experience in Downstream Processing.

Benefits & Rewards

At Novartis, we are committed to reimagining medicine together and rewarding the people who make it happen.

Expected Annual Base Salary Range for this role: 65,870.00 - 122,330.00 CHF. The base salary offered is determined based on gender-neutral objectives, such as relevant skills, competencies, and experience in accordance with the Novartis pay setting policy.

In addition to your base salary, you may be eligible for a performance-based bonus depending on certain performance parameters. The rewards of being part of our team go far beyond base pay and incentives. We also offer a variety of competitive benefits in kind to help you thrive personally and professionally, such as insurance plans, retirement plans, well-being resources, and global recognition programs. In addition, we provide flexible and hybrid working options where possible and a minimum of 14 weeks of paid parental leave.

Read our brochure to learn more about our global total rewards offering: Novartis Life Handbook.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

Novartis is committed to building an outstanding, inclusive work environment and diverse teams representative of the patients and communities we serve.

Why Novartis

Helping people with disease and their families takes more than innovative science. It takes a community of smart, passionate people like you. Collaborating, supporting, and inspiring each other to achieve breakthroughs that change patients' lives. Ready to create a brighter future together? Learn more here.

Apply

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Work locationBASEL, Switzerland

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