Expert Science & Technology

Novartis Pharma Schweiz AG seeks a Senior Expert in Science & Technology in Basel to characterize biopharmaceutical products using advanced LC-MS instrumentation and optimize analytical methods.

This position is responsible for the detailed characterization of biopharmaceuticals, including monoclonal antibodies and ADCs, by leveraging state-of-the-art analytical instruments. The role centers on refining sample preparation protocols and analytical methods to ensure rigorous monitoring of product quality attributes.

Responsibilities

• Analyze biopharmaceutical products such as monoclonal antibodies, ADCs, and AOCs using advanced instrumentation.
• Refine sample preparation workflows and acquisition methods for LC, IMS, and MS to monitor product quality.
• Draft reports on method development and robustness studies.
• Compose or review mass spectrometry sections within characterization reports for structure elucidation and impurity analysis.
• Present findings at internal reviews and international scientific conferences.
• Integrate environmental sustainability practices and GreenLab initiatives into daily laboratory operations.
• Perform maintenance and qualification procedures for laboratory equipment.
• Resolve technical issues with LC-MS instruments and act as the primary contact for vendor support.
• Record experimental data and structured information in electronic laboratory systems.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Analytical Chemistry, or a closely related discipline.
• Fluent communication skills in English.
• Extensive practical experience with liquid chromatography systems, specifically HPLC and UHPLC platforms like Thermo Vanquish and Waters Acquity.
• Proven hands-on capability in conducting mass spectrometry analyses of biopharmaceuticals at intact, subunit, and peptide levels.
• Practical expertise in protein sample preparation and prior usage of automated liquid handlers.
• Solid theoretical foundation in protein biochemistry and post-translational modifications.
• Theoretical understanding and prior experience operating mass spectrometers (e.g., Orbitrap, Q-ToF) and utilizing Data Dependent Acquisition (DDA).
• Ability to critically interpret and objectively present scientific data.
• Proactive attitude towards new technologies, methodologies, and environmental sustainability, supported by strong organizational abilities.

Nice to have

• Proficiency in German or French.
• Experience with ion mobility separation (IMS) on Waters cyclic IMS mass spectrometers.
• Familiarity with fragmentation techniques such as CID, HCD, ECD, and/or ETD.
• Experience with software for intact mass deconvolution, protein identification, and semi-quantification of quality attributes (e.g., Genedata Expressionist Refiner MS).
• Background in mass spectrometry analysis of oligonucleotides.

What the company offers

• Annual base salary ranging from 76,300.00 to 141,700.00 CHF.
• Eligibility for a performance-based bonus contingent on specific performance metrics.
• Competitive benefits including insurance plans, retirement savings options, wellbeing resources, and global recognition programs.
• Flexible hybrid working arrangements where feasible.
• Minimum of 14 weeks of paid parental leave.

About the company

Novartis Pharma Schweiz AG is dedicated to reimagining medicine through collaborative innovation. The company actively promotes environmental sustainability and supports GreenLab initiatives within its operations.

• Commitment to reimagining medicine together.
• Promotion of environmental sustainability and GreenLab initiatives.