As Principal Scientist in xRNA Therapeutics, you will have an opportunity to join the Biologics Research Center (BRC) as a leader at the cutting edge of innovative medicine development to improve patient lives. BRC builds the biologics pipeline in collaboration with Biomedical Research Disease Areas via a breadth of technologies for discovery of antibody, protein, gene therapy and RNA-based therapeutics. The successful candidate will have a strong research track record in drug discovery and will provide key expertise in the development of next generation RNA based medicines and their acceleration to patients. They will lead boldly and collaborate effectively across therapeutic and functional areas to advance our growing RNA portfolio across various diseases states.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead a team of highly talented scientists on the Basel site responsible to drive RNAi based therapies to patients via design, screening and characterization.
• Establishes mid- and long-term goals, plan of action and implementation for the local xRNA team in line with global strategy for xRNA and Biologics Research Center
• Develops and implements strategy for next generation extrahepatic RNAi for various disease areas including renal, cardiometabolic, and cardiovascular.
• Co-leads RNAi drug discovery and development in partnership in Global Discovery Chemistry and Disease Areas.
• Collaborate with downstream development colleagues to bring lead candidates towards full development.
• Collaborates and coordinates activities with other global BRC and functional groups
• Offers innovative approaches to scientific questions and troubleshooting efforts.
• Identifies Disease Area’s unmet needs and collaborate for a novel therapeutic solution.

Role Requirements:

• PhD level scientist with 5 years of relevant experience, recognized both internally and externally as an expert in RNAi
• Prior experience with drug discovery focused on RNAi design, screening, and characterization
• Deep knowledge of RNAi chemistry and biology applied to lead optimization of therapeutic candidate
• A proven track record of success as judged by publications and patents
• Knowledge in the application of RNAi to biology in the areas of renal metabolic diseases is desirable
• 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/kidney targeting of RNAi is a preferred

*Restrictions on flexible working arrangements may apply and will be discussed at interview if applicable

Accessibility and accommodation

Novartis is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to all individuals. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the recruitment process, or in order to receive more detailed information about the essential functions of a position, please send an e-mail to inclusion.switzerland@novartis.com and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Please include the job requisition number in your message.