Principal Scientist - Mid/Large Scale Oligonucleotide Synthesis, xRNA Therapeutics

Novartis seeks a Principal Scientist to lead mid- and large-scale oligonucleotide synthesis for xRNA Therapeutics in Basel, managing a team and driving process innovation.

This position is responsible for directing synthesis activities at the millimole scale and leading a specialized team at the Basel facility. The role bridges research and development to support the discovery and advancement of innovative RNA therapies through close collaboration within a multidisciplinary environment.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the planning and execution of solid-phase synthesis, purification, and analysis for chemically modified oligonucleotides and conjugates at medium and large scales.
• Provide mentorship and leadership to a team of scientists focused on oligonucleotide synthesis, purification, analysis, and conjugation.
• Partner with global discovery and development groups to advance novel chemistries and facilitate the transition from research to development stages.
• Identify and deploy innovative technologies, workflows, and manufacturing methods to improve operational excellence and production capacity.
• Communicate scientific results and project progress to internal and external stakeholders via presentations, technical reports, and patent filings.
• Ensure high-quality scientific documentation, including electronic laboratory notebooks, experimental protocols, and project summaries.
• Cultivate a work environment that emphasizes scientific excellence, collaboration, continuous learning, and solution-oriented problem solving.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Chemistry or a related field with a strong emphasis on oligonucleotide chemistry and synthesis.
• At least 2–3 years of industry experience with proven expertise in mid- to large-scale oligonucleotide solid-phase synthesis, purification, analysis, conjugation, and related processes.
• Extensive experience operating and maintaining AKTA Oligopilot/Oligosynt systems and AKTA Avant purification platforms, with strong proficiency in Unicorn software.
• Strong hands-on experience with process development, method optimization, and scale-up strategies for oligonucleotides.
• Demonstrated leadership experience, including mentoring and team management.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively in a matrixed cross-functional global teams’ environment.

What the company offers

• Performance-based bonus depending on certain performance parameters.
• Competitive benefits in kind including insurance plans, retirement plans, wellbeing resources and global recognition programs.
• Flexible and hybrid working options, where possible.
• Minimum 14 weeks paid parental leave.

About the company

Novartis is committed to reimagining medicine together. The company is dedicated to building an outstanding, inclusive work environment and diverse teams’ representative of the patients and communities we serve. Pay equity is a fundamental principle of our employment policy.

• Novartis is committed to reimagining medicine together.
• Pay equity is a fundamental principle of our employment policy.