Principal Scientist II, Oligonucleotide Chemistry

Novartis Group Companies
parental leave, paid time off, sick time, 401(k)
United States, Massachusetts, Cambridge
Apr 19, 2025
Job Description Summary Internal Title: Principal Scientist II This position will be located at Cambridge, MA site and will not have the ability to be located remotely. We are seeking highly skilled and motivated Principal Scientist to join our fast-paced xRNA team in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The xRNA team strives for excellence and drives a diverse portfolio of siRNA assets and platform innovation to attenuate gene expression via RNAi. Our xRNA team works collaboratively with diverse Therapeutics Area groups, the Global Discovery Chemistry and the Discovery Sciences to broaden the use of RNAi into extrahepatic tissues. The successful candidate will have strong research track in discovery and optimization of oligonucleotide therapeutics and will provide key expertise in oligonucleotide synthesis, purification and platform innovation. Job Description Key responsibilities Design and synthesis of therapeutic oligonucleotides at different synthetic scales using automated solid-phase synthesizers. Drive innovation in oligonucleotide chemistry including design, synthesis and characterization of novel oligonucleotide structures to improve potency and durability Technical fluency in operating instruments and equipment including MerMade and Sierra BioSystems oligonucleotide synthesizers, AKTA, HPLC, LC-MS, and UV/Vis Drive Structure-Activity-Relationship studies to explore oligonucleotide and conjugation chemistries. Form data driven hypothesis and strategies to optimize designs for enhanced potency, safety, and pharmacokinetics Collaborate with scientists across the Therapeutics Areas and project teams to advance discovery of oligonucleotide therapeutics to clinical candidates Independently problem-solve in the laboratory setting to overcome synthetic challenges and improve upon existing workflows Data analysis and decision making to make recommendations and presentations to project teams and senior leadership. Ability to work efficiently within a dynamic and matrix team Partner with cross-functional teams within research, translational biology, and CMC to advance xRNA portfolio and drive high-speed innovation Mentor junior scientific staff and lead associates fostering a collaborative and innovative work environment Essential Requirements: PhD in chemistry, biochemistry or related sciences At least 4 years of relevant industry experience focusing on the oligonucleotide modification and conjugation Prior experience with drug discovery focused on RNAi design, screening, and characterization Knowledge of RNAi chemistry and biology applied to lead optimization of therapeutic candidate Desirable Requirements: A proven track record of success as judged by publications and patents Highly collaborative spirit to accelerate programs to clinic Good communication skills, creativity, and multi-tasking in a fast-paced environment Excellent, oral and written communication skills Experience with extrahepatic targeting of RNAi Novartis Compensation and Benefit Summary: The pay range for this position at commencement of employment is expected to be between: $114,100 and $211,900/year; however, while salary ranges are effective from 1/1/24 through 12/31/24, fluctuations in the job market may necessitate adjustments to pay ranges during this period. Further, final pay determinations will depend on various factors, including, but not limited to geographical location, experience level, knowledge, skills, and abilities. The total compensation package for this position may also include other elements, including a sign-on bonus, restricted stock units, and discretionary awards in addition to a full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits (including 401(k) eligibility and various paid time off benefits, such as vacation, sick time, and parental leave), dependent on the position offered. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment. If hired, employee will be in an "at-will position" and the Company reserves the right to modify base salary (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors. EEO Statement: The Novartis Group of Companies are Equal Opportunity Employers. We do not discriminate in recruitment, hiring, training, promotion or other employment practices for reasons of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status. Accessibility and reasonable accommodations The Novartis Group of Companies are committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process, or to perform the essential functions of a position, please send an e-mail to us.reasonableaccommodations@novartis.com or call +1(877)395-2339 and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Please include the job requisition number in your message. Salary Range $114,100.00 - $211,900.00 Skills Desired Algorithms, Algorithms, Analysis, Analytical Chemistry, Analytical Skill, Chemical Analysis, Chemical Biology, Chemical Laboratory, Chemical Synthesis, Chemistry, Computational Chemistry, Creativity, Data Analysis, Drug Development, Drug Discovery, Emotional Intelligence (EQ), Employee Development, Innovation, Innovative Medicines, Lifesciences, Medical Research, Medicinal Chemistry, Mentorship, Organic Chemistry, Performance Management {+ 7 more}