Principal Scientist, Mid/Large Scale Oligonucleotide Synthesis, xRNA Therapeutics
Join to apply for the Principal Scientist, Mid/Large Scale Oligonucleotide Synthesis, xRNA Therapeutics role at Novartis
Role Purpose
We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced PhD-level scientist to lead our mid/large xRNA synthesis team in Basel. This position requires extensive collaboration within a multidisciplinary environment, bridging research and development to discover and advance innovative siRNA therapies addressing significant unmet medical needs.
Summary
Location: Basel, Switzerland #onsite
Key Responsibilities
* Oversee a state-of-the-art oligonucleotide synthesis facility, managing both capital and consumables budgets efficiently.
* Lead and guide a team of scientists specializing in oligonucleotide synthesis and purification of oligonucleotides at millimole scale to deliver on our growing siRNA portfolio
* Ensure the delivery of high-quality siRNA products for both in vitro screening and in vivo evaluation within drug candidate pipelines.
* Collaborate with discovery xRNA existing oligonucleotide synthesis teams in Basel as well as in Cambridge
* Provide technical leadership to the scale‑up team in the synthesis of oligonucleotides, optimize methodologies and processes to improve efficiencies
* Collaborate with synthetic chemists and project teams to scale up new siRNA chemistries that address critical scientific challenges and facilitate their seamless transition into development.
* Document and effectively communicate results and scientific insights to internal and external stakeholders through patent applications and scientific publications.
* Mentor and support team members by sharing technical expertise and hands‑on experience within the work environment.
* Excellent problem solving skills and solution orientated mindset
Qualifications And Requirements
* A PhD in synthetic chemistry focused on oligonucleotides. 2-3 years experience in the industry setting
* Proven practical experience in oligonucleotide solid phase synthesis and downstream processing with an expertise in a mid/large scale oligo synthesis and in process development.
* Demonstrated leadership abilities and experience developing scientific teams.
* Capacity to promote and implement innovative ideas within a global team context.
* Strong independent problem‑solving skills.
* Proven collaborative attitude
* Proficiency in managing multiple priorities effectively while maintaining focus where necessary.
* Excellent verbal and written communication abilities.
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.
Accessibility and accommodation: Novartis is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to all individuals. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the recruitment process, or in order to receive more detailed information about the essential functions of a position, please send an e‑mail to inclusion.switzerland@novartis.com and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Please include the job requisition number in your message.
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. Combining to achieve breakthroughs that change patients’ lives. Ready to create a brighter future together? https://www.novartis.com/about/strategy/people-and-culture
Benefits and Rewards: Read our handbook to learn about all the ways we’ll help you thrive personally and professionally: https://www.novartis.com/careers/benefits-rewards
Seniority level
* Mid-Senior level
Employment type
* Full-time
Job function
* Research, Analyst, and Information Technology
Industries
* Pharmaceutical Manufacturing
Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at Novartis by 2x
#J-18808-Ljbffr