Principal Scientist I/II, Oncology Drug Discovery Biology Full-time

Ph.D.-Level Scientist In Cancer Biology

Location: Basel – Onsite

Salary Range: CHF93,800.00 – CHF174,200.00

About Us

Novartis Biomedical Research (BR) is the innovation engine of Novartis—where deep disease biology meets bold therapeutic innovation. In Oncology Drug Discovery Biology, we translate a precise understanding of cancer mechanisms into new therapeutic concepts and modalities.

About This Job

We are seeking a Ph.D.-level scientist with a strong track record in cancer biology to join our Oncology Research team in Basel, lead a laboratory, and help discover the next generation of oncology medicines for patients with high unmet medical need. You will bring deep cancer biology expertise to generate, shape, and test bold new ideas for oncology drug discovery. Working with scientific peers and cross-functional partners, you will define and execute cutting-edge experimental strategies, generate high-quality data, validate targets and concepts, establish relevant cellular assays, and support the optimization and characterization of new molecular entities toward clinical proof of concept.

Why Join Us

At Novartis, you will grow as a scientist and leader while contributing to high-impact oncology projects. This role offers the opportunity to expand your expertise, build new skills, take on increasing responsibility, and help project teams advance breakthrough science with the potential to improve patients' lives.

Job Description

Major accountabilities include:

• Lead a Drug Discovery Biology laboratory, guiding, supervising, and developing scientific associates to deliver high-quality experimental science.
• Apply rigorous statistical thinking to large-scale datasets or other pertinent sources to identify new biological insights and therapeutic opportunities.
• Design and execute smart and innovative experimental strategies that generate interpretable data, test hypotheses, answer key scientific questions, and move projects forward.
• Implement cutting-edge technologies for target identification, validation, and structure/function studies and eventually drive drug discovery programs from inception through all stages
• Partner closely across Oncology expertise groups and with teams across the global Novartis organization.
• Communicate scientific concepts and project progress clearly, objectively, and data-driven across different settings and audiences.
• Manage laboratory resources flexibly and effectively as priorities evolve.

Minimum Requirements

· Ph.D. in cancer biology, molecular biology biochemistry or a related field, with limited (up to 5 years) postdoctoral experience preferred.

· Evidenced productivity and proven ability to deliver high-quality results in a fast-paced, productive, and competitive scientific environment.

· Experience in drug discovery and project leadership in biotech or pharmaceutical settings is a plus.

· Experience with microscopy and imaging technologies is a plus.

· Excellent communication and presentation skills across a broad range of topics and adapted to variety of audiences.

· Proven ability to coach, mentor, and develop team members.

· Fluency in English, oral and written.

Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion:

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

Benefits & Rewards

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

Expected Annual Base Salary Range for role: 93,800 to 174,200 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 and upon joining Novartis will be reviewed periodically.

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, wellbeing resources and global recognition programs. In addition, we provide flexible and hybrid working options, where possible, and minimum 14 weeks paid parental leave.

In addition to your base salary, you may be eligible for a performance-based bonus depending on certain performance parameters. Long-term equity awards granted at group level may also be part of your package. Further details will be provided during the application process.

Skills Desired

• Analytical Thinking
• Chemical Biology
• Chemistry
• Clinical Trials
• Collaboration
• Data Analysis
• Design of Experiments (DOE)
• Detail-Oriented
• Drug Development
• Drug Discovery Process
• Ethics
• Gene Therapy
• Immunology
• Inventory Management
• Leading Project Teams
• Machine Learning (ML)
• Medical Research