Principal Scientist I/II – Hematopoietic Stem Cell & RBC Biology

About the Role

We are seeking a highly motivated Principal Scientist I/II with expertise in sickle cell disease biology, red blood cell physiology, and/or hematopoietic stem cell biology to join our collaborative In Vivo Biology & Pharmacology team. In this role, you will contribute to research programs focused on sickle cell disease while gaining broad exposure to target discovery, pharmacology, translational science, and therapeutic development. This position offers significant opportunities for scientific growth, leadership development, and future people-management responsibilities.

• Apply expertise in sickle cell disease, hematopoietic stem cell biology, and RBC pathophysiology to support Global Health research initiatives.
• Design, execute, and interpret high-quality biological experiments that inform target discovery, validation, and early drug discovery.
• Translate biological insights into actionable hypotheses and therapeutic concepts in collaboration with multidisciplinary project teams.
• Take on increasing scientific leadership responsibilities, including mentoring junior scientists and contributing to team development, with opportunities for future people-management growth.
• Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and high-performance culture aligned with Novartis Values & Behaviors.
• Contribute to project discussions, data reviews, and decision making in a matrixed Biomedical Research environment.
• Maintain awareness of external scientific advances and contribute to publications or scientific exchanges as appropriate.
• Ensure all work is conducted to the highest standards of scientific rigor, data integrity, safety, and compliance.

Requirements

• PhD in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Immunology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Virology, Biophysics, Pharmacology, or a related biological science discipline.
• Deep expertise in sickle cell disease, red blood cell physiology, and/or hematopoietic stem cell biology, with a strong understanding of hemoglobinopathies.
• Strong data interpretation, critical thinking, and scientific communication skills.
• Proven ability to independently design experiments, analyze data, and advance scientific questions, as evidenced by high-quality publications, patents, presentations, and/or drug discovery contributions.
• Demonstrated behaviors aligned with Novartis Values & Behaviors: Inspired, Curious, Unbossed, and Integrity.

Preferred Qualifications

• Early-career scientists are encouraged to apply, including recent PhD graduates and postdoctoral fellows seeking to transition into or expand their experience in drug discovery.
• Ability to work effectively within multidisciplinary and matrixed environments.
• Experience contributing to therapeutic programs from target identification and validation through lead generation and/or early development.
• Expertise in assay development utilizing in vitro, ex vivo, and/or in vivo systems.
• Prior experience with high-dimensional flow cytometry, including panel design, execution, and data analysis, is preferred.

Pay

The salary for this position is expected to range between $108,500 to $208,500 USD annually. The final salary offered is determined based on factors like relevant skills and experience. Your compensation will include a performance-based cash incentive and eligibility for annual equity awards.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package including health, life, and disability benefits.
• 401(k) with company contribution and match.
• Generous time off package including vacation, personal days, holidays, and other leaves.