Principal Scientist II - xRNA Therapeutics (80-100%*)

Principal Scientist II – xRNA Therapeutics (80-100%*)

Job ID REQ-10057716

Jul 22, 2025

Summary

Location: Basel, Switzerland
Full time, onsite, #LI-onsite
We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Principal Scientist II/Senior Principal Scientist to be a leader in our RNAi drug discovery efforts at Novartis\‘ Biomedical Research labs at our Basel site. This is an exciting opportunity to be at the cutting-edge of xRNA therapeutics, and to play a strategic role in driving the development of RNAi-based therapies, leveraging a deep understanding of RNAi biology and chemistry to advance programs from concept to clinical development, in areas such as Liver, Renal and Metabolic diseases.
The ideal candidate will combine exceptional scientific expertise with strong leadership and collaborative skills to contribute to our mission of delivering transformative therapies to patients.

About the Role

Your responsibilities will include:

• Lead and mentor a team of highly skilled molecular biology scientists at the Basel site, focusing on the design, screening, and characterization of RNAi-based therapies.
• Design, plan, and oversee siRNA cell-based screening activities, including assay development and optimization, with a focus on implementation of high throughput automation.
• Perform end-to-end RNA-Seq NGS experiments to assess off-target risks, including library preparation, sequencing, and data analysis.
• Expand research space for off-target assessment to advance safe siRNA therapeutics to clinic
• Define mid- and long-term goals, establish action plans, and implement strategies for the local xRNA team in alignment with the global xRNA and Biologics Research Center strategy.
• Co-lead RNAi drug discovery and development programs in collaboration with Global Discovery Chemistry and Disease Areas (DA) teams.
• Partner with downstream development colleagues to progress RNA lead candidates toward full development.
• Coordinate and align activities with other Global Biologics Research Center teams and functional groups.
• Collaborate with DA partners to identify unmet medical needs and enable the development of novel therapeutic solutions.
• Represent the xRNA team on cross-functional project teams, driving the advancement of siRNA programs through the development pipeline.
• Provide innovative solutions to scientific challenges and lead troubleshooting efforts.
• Provide supervision in the laboratory setting and talent development opportunities

Minimum requirements: What you will bring to the role

• Ph.D. in a relevant scientific discipline,including genomics, molecular biology & biochemistry with a minimum of 5 years of experience in RNAi/oligonucleotide drug discovery, recognized as an expert in the field both internally and externally.
• Proven experience in RNAi drug discovery, including RNAi design, screening, and characterization.
• Comprehensive knowledge of RNAi chemistry and biology, with a focus on lead optimization of therapeutic candidates.
• Strong genomics expertise, including hands-on experience with RNA-Seq experiments, from library preparation to data processing and analysis.
• A demonstrated track record of success, as evidenced by high-quality publications and patents.
• Highly collaborative mindset, combined with strong communication skills, creativity, and the ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Experience with extrahepatic targeting of RNAi is preferred.
• Expertise in lab automation is highly desirable.
• If you are passionate about leading cutting-edge research, thrive in a collaborative and innovative environment, and are eager to make an impact in delivering RNAi-based therapies to patients, we encourage you to apply.

*Restrictions on flexible working and reduced working time may apply and can be discussed at interview stage if required

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 and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Please include the job requisition number in your message.

Why Novartis: Helping people with disease and their families takes more than innovative science. It takes a community of smart, passionate people like you. Collaborating, supporting and inspiring each other. Combining to achieve breakthroughs that change patients’ lives. Ready to create a brighter future together?

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