Innovation Postdoctoral Fellow in 3D-Electron Diffraction (3D-ED)

Novartis Pharma Schweiz AG seeks a Postdoctoral Fellow in 3D-Electron Diffraction for its Global Discovery Chemistry team in Basel. The role focuses on advancing structural characterization and drug discovery methodologies.

This fellowship is based within the Global Discovery Chemistry division in Basel, where the incumbent will work alongside leading scientists to expand the application of 3D-Electron Diffraction. The position aims to drive innovation in structural characterisation and support projects across Research, Development, and Commercial departments through a collaborative, multidisciplinary approach.

Responsibilities

• Expand structural characterisation capabilities by advancing the use of 3D-Electron Diffraction.
• Establish best practices and criteria for analysing pharmaceutical compounds using 3D-ED.
• Apply 3D-ED methodologies to stereochemical assignment, polymorphism, and solid-form characterisation.
• Innovate data analysis, structure refinement, and analytical workflows by integrating experimental and computational methods.
• Generate structural insights to support cross-departmental projects within Research, Development, and Commercial teams.
• Integrate 3D-ED techniques into the existing crystallography workflows of the Diffraction Lab.
• Share research outcomes via publications, presentations, and engagement with internal and external scientific communities.

Requirements

• A PhD or equivalent doctoral degree in a relevant scientific field, completed before the fellowship begins.
• A proven track record of scientific contributions, including publications, presentations, or patents.
• A strong dedication to continuous learning, innovation, and professional growth.
• Extensive background in crystallography, with expertise in molecular crystal structure determination via 3D-ED and single-crystal X-ray diffraction.
• Demonstrated capability to independently collect and analyse 3D-ED data.
• Proficiency in crystal structure refinement software, specifically SHELXL and/or Jana.
• Experience managing complex crystal structures, such as modelling disorder and twinning.
• Excellent communication skills in English and a collaborative mindset for working effectively in multidisciplinary teams.

Nice to have

• Experience with 3D-ED dynamical refinement using Jana and familiarity with powder X-ray diffraction.
• Programming skills in Python and/or C/C++.

What the company offers

• Mentorship from accomplished scientific leaders and subject matter experts.
• Access to advanced technologies, platforms, and research capabilities.
• Opportunities for cross-disciplinary and cross-organizational collaboration.
• Membership in a global and diverse community of postdoctoral fellows.
• Dedicated programming to support fellows' career development.
• Personalized experiential learning through a Postdoc Practicum.
• Opportunities to present research, publish in leading journals, and build an international scientific network.
• A full-time training position lasting up to three years.

About the company

The Novartis Biomedical Research Postdoctoral Fellowship Program is dedicated to developing the next generation of scientific leaders through rigorous research and immersive learning experiences. The company is entering a new era of biomedical breakthroughs by converging biology, technology, and artificial intelligence to transform patient care.

• Empowering fellows to ask bold scientific questions and apply cutting-edge technologies.
• Fostering a collaborative environment that drives innovation in drug discovery.
• Supporting fellows through dedicated career development programs and experiential learning.

How to apply

Documents to submit:

• CV
• Cover letter