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

Novartis Pharma Schweiz AG seeks a Principal Scientist in Basel to lead mid- to large-scale synthesis of xRNA therapeutics, guiding novel chemistries from research into development.

This position is dedicated to advancing the xRNA therapeutics portfolio by managing the synthesis and analysis of chemically modified oligonucleotides. The role focuses on facilitating the transition of new oligonucleotide chemistries from early research stages into formal development processes.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the planning and execution of medium- and large-scale solid-phase synthesis, purification, and analysis for chemically modified oligonucleotides and their conjugates.
• Provide leadership and mentorship to a specialized team of scientists working on millimole-scale synthesis, purification, analysis, and conjugation.
• Partner with global discovery, development, and project teams to drive the advancement of novel oligonucleotide chemistries.
• Identify and deploy innovative technologies, workflows, and manufacturing methods to improve operational excellence and production capacity.
• Share scientific findings and project progress with internal and external stakeholders via presentations, technical reports, and patent filings.
• Ensure high-quality scientific documentation, including the maintenance of electronic laboratory notebooks (ELNs), experimental protocols, technical reports, and project summaries.

Requirements

• A 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, along with strong proficiency in Unicorn software.
• Strong hands-on experience in process development, method optimization, and scale-up strategies for oligonucleotides.
• Demonstrated leadership experience, including mentoring and team management.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a matrixed, cross-functional global team environment.

What the company offers

• 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 Pharma Schweiz AG is committed to reimagining medicine together. The company fosters a culture of scientific excellence, collaboration, continuous learning, and solution-oriented problem solving. Pay equity is a fundamental principle of the employment policy.

• Commitment to reimagining medicine together.
• Culture of scientific excellence, collaboration, continuous learning, and solution-oriented problem solving.
• Pay equity is a fundamental principle of the employment policy.