Principal Scientist – Analytics Team Lead

Internal Job Title: Principal Scientist I/II
Location: Cambridge, MA, onsite

About the Role

The Biologics Research Center (BRC) at Novartis BioMedical Research is seeking a motivated and highly experienced leader in Physical Chemistry Analytics (PCA) and Mass Spectrometry (MS) to join BRC’s Analytics, Bioanalytics and Formulation unit. This role will help develop a diverse portfolio of biotherapeutic modalities.

As Team Lead for the analytics team, you will demonstrate broad and in-depth knowledge of PCA and MS technologies to evaluate the developability of various biologics modalities—from traditional antibodies to gene therapy viral vectors—ensuring quality of material delivered and enabling candidate selection. You will lead a team of up to 5 associates, fostering a strong culture of team spirit, integrity, and professional development.

Responsibilities

• Drive the analytics (PCA and MS) strategy in Cambridge, working globally in a matrix organization to support a diverse biologics pipeline (e.g., antibodies, fusion proteins, ADCs, bi- and trispecifics, AAVs, Lentiviruses) transitioning into clinical development
• Act as senior analytics expert in project teams, ensuring optimal project support and high-quality deliverables from your group
• Foster streamlined processes, optimal use of capacities, and continued innovation by incorporating the latest technologies and knowledge
• Effectively manage resources, project activities, timelines, and maintain a strong customer focus while setting objectives for your team
• Provide leadership and clear guidance to the team, leveraging individual expertise and experience
• Drive a culture of collaboration, integrity, and team development, ensuring a safe, empowering, and inspiring work environment

Requirements

• PhD degree or equivalent in biochemistry, biotechnology, chemistry, or a related field with 3+ years of related experience in the pharmaceutical industry, including 2+ years as a people manager
• Strong scientific background in analysis of recombinant proteins (mAb, bi/tri-specific mAbs, therapeutic proteins) using techniques such as mass spectrometry, chromatography, capillary electrophoresis, and light scattering technologies
• Implementation and supervision of cutting-edge PCA techniques for analyzing novel biologics modalities (e.g., multispecific Abs, AAV, ADCs, oligonucleotides, CAR-T’s), including evaluation of novel instrumentation and development of new applications for existing technologies (e.g., dynamic light scattering, chromatography (SEC, HIC, IEX, RPC), MALS, capillary electrophoresis (cIEF, CZE, CE-SDS), and other advanced technologies)
• Experience with modern LC-MS techniques (Intact/reduced/subunit RPMS, peptide mapping, released glycans), managing instrumentation (orbitraps, QTOFs), and modern hyphenated MS techniques (SEC-MS, CE-MS). Experience interpreting CDMS results for AAV analysis is beneficial; direct instrument experience is not required
• Experience with data analysis workflows and report generation
• Proven ability to lead, coach, and develop people
• Distinguished team spirit and scientific drive
• High flexibility combined with excellent organizational and communication skills

Pay

The salary for this position is expected to range between $108,500 and $201,500 per year for Principal Scientist I, and between $119,700 and $222,300 per year for Principal Scientist II. The final salary offered is determined based on factors such as relevant skills and experience and will be reviewed periodically. Novartis may adjust the published salary range based on company and market factors.

Benefits

• Performance-based cash incentive and eligibility for annual equity awards (depending on role level)
• Comprehensive benefits package including health, life, and disability insurance
• 401(k) with company contribution and match
• Generous time off package including vacation, personal days, holidays, and other leaves