Research Scientist - Bioanalytics/SPR

Job Description Summary

The Biologics Research Center (BRC) discovers and develops biologic therapeutics to treat unmet medical needs in all of Novartis’s disease areas – ranging from oncology, to autoimmune disease, to respiratory diseases and cardiovascular disease. The Bioanalytics group in BRC works with other Novartis scientists to characterize and identify lead molecules as biotherapeutic drugs candidates. We use a range of technologies and approaches to evaluate recombinant protein and cell binding, epitope binning, functional activity to extensively characterize and identify lead molecules.

We are looking for a collaborative, inquisitive scientist with an interest and some experience in biologics discovery to join our team.

For this position, some direct experience in antibody characterization by surface plasmon resonance (e.g., Biacore) is required. Additional background in binding characterization using other approaches (e.g., Fortebio, Kinexa, flow cytometry, LigandTracer) and functional assay development (e.g., ELISA) are also relevant and preferred.

Job Description

Internal Job Title: Research Scientist II

Position Location: Cambridge, MA, onsite

The Biologics Research Center (BRC) discovers and develops biologic therapeutics to treat unmet medical needs in all of Novartis’s disease areas – ranging from oncology, to autoimmune disease, to respiratory diseases and cardiovascular disease. The Bioanalytics group in BRC works with other Novartis scientists to characterize and identify lead molecules as biotherapeutic drugs candidates. We use a range of technologies and approaches to evaluate recombinant protein and cell binding, epitope binning, functional activity to extensively characterize and identify lead molecules.

We are looking for a collaborative, inquisitive scientist with an interest and some experience in biologics discovery to join our team.

For this position, some direct experience in antibody characterization by surface plasmon resonance (e.g., Biacore) is required.  Additional background in binding characterization using other approaches (e.g., Fortebio, Kinexa, flow cytometry, LigandTracer) and functional assay development (e.g., ELISA) are also relevant and preferred.

As a member of the Bioanalytics team, you must become proficient in developing Biacore methods to address project objectives. Eventually you will independently analyze and interpret Biacore data with the ability to draw own conclusions in alignment with project initiatives and generate own hypotheses to test, troubleshoot and execute the next set of experiments will some input from senior lab members.  In addition, you will train and become proficient in mammalian cell culture and cellular binding technologies to characterize antibody molecules binding to cells (e.g. Kinexa, LigandTracer).  You will serve on research teams where your data needs to be clearly compiled in a slide deck and effectively presented to the team.

Key responsibilities:

• Provides basic data analysis to interpret own experiments across various learned assays - assesses whether experimental hypothesis was appropriately tested and answered  

• Demonstrate awareness of other departmental activities related to assigned projects

• Operate in an interdisciplinary setting requiring a high degree of collaboration within and across teams with training of junior associates as needed

• Present research and participate constructively in working project teams and at lab meetings

Essential Requirements:

• MS or equivalent (e.g., university degree, etc.) in scientific discipline such as biology, chemistry or pharmacology or related, and relevant years of <2  years experience; or BS/apprenticeship (or equivalent) with appropriate and >2 years relevant years of experience in drug discovery, or other related laboratory research. This is not a PhD-level position.

• Direct experience in antibody characterization by surface plasmon resonance (e.g., Biacore).

• Strong interpersonal skills

• Demonstrated Novartis Values & Behaviors

• Distinguished team spirit and scientific drive

• High flexibility, combined with excellent organizational and communication skills

Desirable Requirements: 

• Background in binding characterization using other approaches (e.g., Fortebio, Kinexa, flow cytometry, LigandTracer) and functional assay development (e.g., ELISA)

• Experience with mammalian cell culture  

Compensation and Benefits:

The salary for this position is expected to range between $81,200 and $150,800 per year. 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.

To learn more about the culture, rewards and benefits we offer our people click here.

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 [email protected] 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

$81,200.00 - $150,800.00

Skills Desired

Algorithms, Analytical Thinking, Chemical Biology, Clinical Research, Clinical Trials, Collaboration, Curious Mindset, Data Analysis, Detail-Oriented, Ethics, Hypothesis Testing, Immunology, Mammalian Cell Culture, Medical Research, Molecular Biology, Science