Principal Scientist - Formulation
About the role
The Biologics Center at Novartis Biomedical Research (BRC) is seeking a highly motivated leader and experienced scientist in biologics formulation to join the Analytics, Bioanalytic, and Formulation (ABF) unit.
Responsibilities
Design and execute formulation screening strategies for large-molecule therapeutics, with emphasis on mAbs and related biologic modalities
Lead studies to identify stable formulations and communicate results to cross-functional R&D teams
Manage team resources, timelines, and deliverables with a strong customer-focused mindset
Provide leadership, mentorship, and direction to team members as the functional manager
Promote a safe, inclusive, and collaborative environment while engaging stakeholders across biologics discovery and technical development
Partner with CMC teams to advance clinical candidates, finalize clinical formulations, and support drug product process development
Develop stabilization strategies for liquid, frozen, and lyophilized drug product formats for clinical development
Apply and interpret biophysical and analytical methods, including DSC, DLS, UV-Vis, turbidity, subvisible particle analysis, viscosity, SEC, and HIC
Work with automation teams to implement high-throughput formulation screening and physicochemical characterization across discovery, optimization, and early development
Operate analytical instrumentation, analyze data, maintain ELN documentation, and author technical reports
Contribute to data interpretation, scientific presentations, and cross-functional discussions within the global BRC community
Requirements
PhD in biochemistry, biotechnology, chemistry, or a related field with 2+ years of relevant industry experience
Proven experience leading, coaching, and developing scientific teams
Hands-on expertise in protein formulations and assessment of biophysical properties of the molecule (e.g., DLS, Viscosity, Thermal and colloidal stability)
Strong background in developing strategies for formulations for large-molecule therapeutics, with understanding of early-stage development workflows
Experience designing and executing preformulation studies and interpreting stability-indicating assays (e.g., SEC, CE, charge variants, MS)
Demonstrated problem-solving skills, scientific curiosity, and ability to work independently
Excellent communication, organizational, and multitasking skills
Desirable Requirements
Knowledge of viral vector-based gene therapy (AAV, LVV) formulation and characterization
Familiarity with DoE tools (e.g., JMP) for high-throughput experimental design
Experience working with automated liquid handling systems
Compensation and Benefits
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 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.