Principal Scientist – Mid/Large Scale Oligonucleotide Synthesis, xRNA Therapeutics

Job Title

Novartis xRNA Therapeutics is seeking a passionate, highly motivated and experienced PhD-level scientist to lead mid/large scale oligonucleotides synthesis activities and manage a team at our Basel site to support our xRNA Therapeutics development.

Job Description

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and execute medium- and large-scale solid-phase synthesis, purification, and analysis of chemically modified oligonucleotides (siRNAs, ASOs, and other emerging synthetic modalities) and conjugates to support our xRNA therapeutics portfolio.
• Mentor and lead a team of scientists specialized in oligonucleotide synthesis, purification, analysis, and conjugation at millimole scale.
• Collaborate with global discovery, development, and project teams to advance novel oligonucleotide chemistries and facilitate their successful transition from research into development.
• Identify and implement innovative technologies, workflows, and manufacturing approaches to enhance operational excellence, production capabilities, and turnaround times of siRNA, ASO and other oligonucleotide modalities supporting in vivo and preclinical studies.
• Communicate scientific findings and project updates effectively to internal and external stakeholders through presentations, technical reports, and patent applications.
• Maintain high-quality scientific documentation, including electronic laboratory notebooks (ELNs), experimental protocols, technical reports, and project summaries.
• Foster a culture of scientific excellence, collaboration, continuous learning, and solution-oriented problem solving.

  Qualifications and Requirements:

  • Ph.D. in Chemistry or related disciplines with a strong focus on oligonucleotide chemistry and synthesis.
  • Minimum 2–3 years of industry experience and proven expertise in mid- large-scale oligonucleotide solid phase synthesis, purification, analysis, conjugation, and other related processes.
  • Extensive experience operating and maintenance of AKTA Oligopilot/Oligosynt systems and AKTA Avant purification platforms, with strong proficiency in Unicorn software.
  • Strong hands-on experience with process development, method optimization and scale-up strategies of oligonucleotides.
  • Demonstrated leadership experience, including mentoring, and team management.
  • Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively in a matrixed cross-functional global teams' environment.

    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: 93,800.00 – 174,200.00 CHF Annual

    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.

    Pay equity is a fundamental principle of our employment policy and reflects our commitment to create a diverse, equitable and inclusive environment that treats all employees with dignity and respect, as outlined in our Code of Ethics.

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

    Skills Desired

    Algorithms, Analytical Chemistry, Chemical Analysis, Chemical Biology, Chemical Laboratory, Chemical Synthesis, Chemistry, Computational Chemistry, Creativity, Data Analysis, Drug Development, Employee Development, Innovation, Medical Research, Medicinal Chemistry, Mentorship, Oligonucleotides, Oligonucleotide Synthesis, Organic Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Industry, Physics, Project Team Management, Results-Oriented, Science