Novartis seeks a Research Scientist II or Senior Scientist I in Toxicology to support genotoxicity assessment of gene and cell therapies in Basel. The role involves in vitro studies, data analysis, and regulatory reporting.
This position is based in Basel and focuses on evaluating the genome safety of gene and cell therapy products, including AAV and CAR-T platforms. The scientist will conduct in vitro studies and mechanistic evaluations to support nonclinical safety assessments for regulatory purposes.
Responsibilities
- Perform in vitro experiments to assess the genotoxicity of gene therapies such as AAVs and lentiviruses for regulatory submissions.
- Evaluate mechanisms affecting genome integrity after gene therapy treatments.
- Process, analyze, and interpret experimental results to aid nonclinical safety evaluations.
- Help develop and interpret integration site analysis strategies.
- Create and run cell-based assays to study DNA damage and viral integration mechanisms.
- Introduce and apply advanced technologies for genetic toxicity testing across various therapeutic areas.
- Work with internal teams and external partners to finalize study designs and interpret findings.
- Prepare reports, presentations, and regulatory summaries to document and share results.
Requirements
- Master's degree in cellular biology, molecular biology, toxicology, or a related field (PhD not required).
- Hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture, including primary cells and established lines.
- Proficiency in molecular biology techniques such as DNA/RNA extraction, PCR-based methods, and sequencing library preparation.
- Basic programming skills for data analysis using R, Python, or similar tools.
- Strong ability to interpret data with high attention to detail.
- Capacity to work both independently and as part of a cross-functional team.
- Effective communication skills for presentations, manuscript writing, and collaboration.
- Proactive and flexible attitude with enthusiasm for solving complex scientific problems.
- Ability to adhere to Good Laboratory Practice, Safety, Health, and Environment standards.
Nice to have
- Experience with gene therapy systems like AAV, lentiviral vectors, or CRISPR/Cas9.
- Knowledge of CRISPR/Cas9 editing techniques.
- Familiarity with DNA damage/repair readouts such as γH2AX, western blot, immunofluorescence, or flow cytometry.
- Skills in karyotyping, molecular karyotyping, or advanced cytogenetics (FISH, SKY).
- Understanding of genome safety concepts including integration, clonal expansion, and tumorigenicity.
- Exposure to primary human cells (e.g., hepatocytes) or advanced in vitro models.
- Awareness of the regulatory context for nonclinical safety.
What the company offers
- Performance-based bonus tied to specific performance parameters.
- Long-term equity awards granted at the group level.
- 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 dedicated to reimagining medicine together. The company upholds pay equity as a core principle of its employment policy and strives to create a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment that treats all employees with dignity and respect.
- Commitment to reimagining medicine together.
- Pay equity as a fundamental employment principle.
- Dedication to a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment with dignity and respect for all employees.
Quelle: öffentlich zugängliche Karriereseite des Arbeitgebers. Batchly ist nicht der Arbeitgeber und steht nicht notwendigerweise in einem Vertragsverhältnis mit dem Unternehmen.