Senior Scientist II, Early Pipeline Development

Internal Job Title: Senior Scientist II

Position Location: San Diego, CA, onsite

** This position is based in San Diego, USA.  Novartis is unable to offer relocation support for this role: please only apply if this location is accessible for you.

The Biologics Research Center (BRC) at Novartis Biomedical Research is seeking a highly motivated scientist with expertise in recombinant adeno-associated virus (AAV) manufacturing to join the Cell & Gene Therapy unit in San Diego, California. In collaboration with Biomedical Research Disease Areas, the role will support the early-stage AAV gene therapy pipeline by assessing the downstream manufacturability and developability of lead candidates, exploring purification methods, and developing improved platform processes for existing and novel capsids and cargo vectors.

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform different scales of purification process including depth filtration, ultracentrifugation, AKTA column chromatography, and TFF unit operations across multiple early-stage programs.

• Design and execute experiments to drive innovative technology and platform evaluation for next generation capsids.

• Perform experiment-related activities including buffer preparation, equipment maintenance, sample labelling and analytical sample submissions.

• Work collaboratively with upstream process development and analytical development teams.

• Engage collaboratively in operational and strategic discussions within a project core team.

• Assist knowledge transfer and work collaboratively with Technical Research & Development team to advance pipeline programs into clinical phases. Facilitate scientific and technical discussions during project translation, ensuring clarity and alignment of objectives across teams.

• Prepare protocols, reports, and provide high-quality data and electronic notebook documentation.

• Other related duties as assigned.

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Essential Requirements:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in biochemistry, chemical engineering, bioengineering, or related technical field with 5+ years relevant experience.  We will also consider recent PhD graduates (within last 2 years).

• Knowledge of downstream purification processes including affinity and ion-exchange chromatography with hands on experience with AKTA purification systems.

• Technical proficiency, creativity, and independent thoughts
• Effective communication skills to convey scientific concepts to research scientists and cross-functional collaborators.
• Strong organization and problem-solving skills with attention to details.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced and matrix environment.

Desired Requirements:

• Experiences in AAV gene therapy

• Experience with viral gene therapy

 Compensation and Benefits:

The salary for this position is expected to range between $98,700 and $183,300 USD annually. The final salary offered is determined based on factors like, but not limited to, relevant skills and experience, and upon joining Novartis will be reviewed periodically. Novartis may change the published salary range based on company and market factors.

Your compensation will include a performance-based cash incentive and, depending on the level of the role, eligibility to be considered for annual equity awards.

US-based eligible employees will receive a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, life and disability benefits, a 401(k) with company contribution and match, and a variety of other benefits. In addition, employees are eligible for a generous time off package including vacation, personal days, holidays and other leaves.

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