New

Research Scientist II

Novartis Group Companies
401(k)
United States, California, San Diego
Jun 07, 2025
Job Description Summary Position is onsite in San Diego Internal Title: Research Scientist II The Biologics Research Center (BRC) is accommodated within the Biomedical Research (BR). BRC, in collaboration with the disease areas (DA) and technical expert groups, builds the future biologics therapy pipeline of Novartis through the discovery and creation of new antibody, protein, nucleic acid and virus-based molecules. We are seeking a highly motivated Research Scientist II to join our team. This role offers an opportunity to contribute to our capsid engineering efforts, and to advance our understanding of mechanism of transduction for engineered capsid variants. This laboratory-based position will contribute to design and execution of both in vitro and in vivo studies to support the discovery of novel engineered AAV capsid variants for transduction of desired tissues/cell types. This position will require hands-on experience with molecular biology techniques and a strong understanding of AAV-based gene therapies. This position will collaborate closely with scientists across multiple functions to support advancing our gene therapy pipeline. Job Description Key Responsibilities: Execution of directed evolution experiments to develop engineered AAV capsid variants, both in vitro and in vivo. Design and produce new therapeutic candidate constructs, perform cloning and DNA preps as needed. Carry out experiments to investigate mechanism of transduction for evolved capsid variants using in vitro models including iPSC-derived and primary cells. Provide hands-on support for biodistribution experiments by performing DNA, RNA, and protein extractions and running associated assays (such as qPCR, ddPCR, western blotting, ELISA). Conduct data analysis, document experiments, and present results in lab and department meetings. Collaborate effectively while working in a matrixed environment. Essential Requirements: Bachelor's degree with 4+ years industry experience, or Master's degree with 2+ years industry experience in molecular biology, genomics, or related fields. Strong molecular biology background Experience with mammalian cell culture, ideally including primary and iPSC-derived cell models. Experience with nucleic acid extractions and quantitative assays (such as qPCR, ddPCR). Experience with protein extraction and quantification methods (capillary or traditional western blotting, ELISA, immunofluorescent staining). Excellent communication (written and oral) and interpersonal skills, and the ability to work flexibly in a matrixed team environment. Experience with independently developing, executing, and troubleshooting cell-based assays for drug discovery. Desirable Requirements: Experience with next-generation sequencing is preferred. The salary for this position is expected to range between $73,500 and $136,500 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. 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 $73,500.00 - $136,500.00 Skills Desired Algorithms, Algorithms, Analytical Skill, Analytical Thinking, Chemical Biology, Clinical Research, Clinical Trials, Collaboration, Communication Skills, Curiosity, 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 {+ 6 more}