Research Scientist, DNA-encoded chemical libraries (DEL) (80-100%*) Full-time

Biomedical Research Scientist

The Biomedical Research (BR) division is the innovation engine of Novartis, focusing on novel approaches to generate therapeutic breakthroughs for patients. The Discovery Sciences department (DSc) at BR drives drug discovery projects and champions innovative novel drug modalities. The DNA-encoded chemical library (DEL) group in DSc Basel/Switzerland, is seeking a highly motivated, curious, and innovative Research Scientist who is eager to make an impact on drug discovery. Our mission is to accelerate the identification and optimization of novel low molecular weight (LMW) drugs, radioligand therapeutics (RLTs), siRNAs and other emerging therapeutic modalities with state-of-the-art technologies. Specifically, we apply and develop DEL technology to discover LMW and peptide binders to disease-relevant targets as a novel path to medicines. Our group is part of the larger Drug Discovery home in DSc, a highly collaborative group working at the interface of biology and chemistry to advance drug discovery.

Position Location: onsite, Basel, CH

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct all experimental aspects related to DEL screening for early drug discovery projects, including the preparation of key reagents
• Execute DEL screening campaigns, interpret results, recognize when procedures are not working, and support troubleshooting
• Experimentally innovate and further develop existing DEL selection methods (e.g. towards emerging modalities)
• Analyze experimental data and communicate results at internal meetings
• Closely work within multidisciplinary, collaborative project teams and contribute to a constructive team environment

Essential Requirements:

• MS equivalent (e.g., university degree, etc.) in scientific discipline such as biology, chemistry or pharmacology; or BS/apprenticeship (or equivalent) with appropriate and relevant experience in drug discovery
• Strong wet-lab experience in molecular biology, biochemistry and/or biophysics with a focus on manipulation and analysis of oligonucleotides and proteins
• Ability to adapt to scientific challenges and to generate innovative solutions
• Enthusiasm for exploring novel technologies and approaches to advance drug discovery
• Collaborative and self-motivated team player, with critical scientific and technical thinking
• Excellent interpersonal and organizational skills
• Good communication skills in oral and written English

Desirable Requirements:

• Interdisciplinary interest at the interface of chemistry, biology, and technology
• Practical and/or theoretical knowledge with encoded library screening: e.g. DEL, mRNA- or phage-display
• Experience with applying and developing computational tools for analyzing large data sets
• Experience in identifying and characterizing LMW and peptide ligands
• Programming experience in the areas of lab automation and NGS data analysis
• Familiarity with working in a highly productive and fast-paced environment

*Please note that restrictions on flexible working may apply and will be discussed at interview stage if applicable

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.

Skills Desired

Algorithms, Analytical Skill, Analytical Thinking, Chemical Biology, Clinical Research, Clinical Trials, Collaboration, Communication Skills, Curious Mindset, Data, Data Analysis, Design Of Experiments, Detail-Oriented, Diversity & Inclusion, Drug Discovery, Ethics, Hypothesis Testing, Immunology, Laboratory, Lifesciences, Mammalian Cell Culture, Medical Research, Molecular Biology, Organization