Research Scientist – Bioanalytics/SPR

Internal Job Title: Research Scientist II
Location: Cambridge, MA, onsite

About the Role

The Biologics Research Center (BRC) discovers and develops biologic therapeutics to treat unmet medical needs in all of Novartis’s disease areas—ranging from oncology, to autoimmune disease, to respiratory diseases and cardiovascular disease. The Bioanalytics group in BRC works with other Novartis scientists to characterize and identify lead molecules as biotherapeutic drug candidates. We use a range of technologies and approaches to evaluate recombinant protein and cell binding, epitope binning, and functional activity to extensively characterize and identify lead molecules.

We are looking for a collaborative, inquisitive scientist with an interest and some experience in biologics discovery to join our team. For this position, direct experience in antibody characterization by surface plasmon resonance (e.g., Biacore) is required. Additional background in binding characterization using other approaches (e.g., Fortebio, Kinexa, flow cytometry, LigandTracer) and functional assay development (e.g., ELISA) are also relevant and preferred.

As a member of the Bioanalytics team, you will become proficient in developing Biacore methods to address project objectives. You will independently analyze and interpret Biacore data, draw conclusions aligned with project initiatives, and generate hypotheses to test, troubleshoot, and execute the next set of experiments with input from senior lab members. You will also train and become proficient in mammalian cell culture and cellular binding technologies to characterize antibody molecules binding to cells (e.g., Kinexa, LigandTracer). You will serve on research teams where your data must be clearly compiled in slide decks and effectively presented to the team.

Responsibilities

• Provide basic data analysis to interpret your own experiments across various learned assays—assess whether the experimental hypothesis was appropriately tested and answered.
• Demonstrate awareness of other departmental activities related to assigned projects.
• Operate in an interdisciplinary setting requiring a high degree of collaboration within and across teams, including training junior associates as needed.
• Present research and participate constructively in working project teams and lab meetings.

Requirements

• MS or equivalent (e.g., university degree) in a scientific discipline such as biology, chemistry, or pharmacology, with <2 years of relevant experience; or BS/apprenticeship (or equivalent) with >2 years of relevant experience in drug discovery or related laboratory research. This is not a PhD-level position.
• Direct experience in antibody characterization by surface plasmon resonance (e.g., Biacore).
• Strong interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated alignment with Novartis Values & Behaviors.
• Distinguished team spirit and scientific drive.
• High flexibility, combined with excellent organizational and communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Background in binding characterization using other approaches (e.g., Fortebio, Kinexa, flow cytometry, LigandTracer) and functional assay development (e.g., ELISA).
• Experience with mammalian cell culture.

Pay

The salary for this position is expected to range between $81,200 and $150,800 per year. The final salary offered is determined based on factors such as relevant skills and experience. Upon joining Novartis, your salary will be reviewed periodically. Novartis may change the published salary range based on company and market factors.

Benefits

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