Senior Principal Scientist / Associate Director Translational Oncology

Novartis seeks a Senior Principal Scientist / Associate Director for Translational Oncology in Basel. The role involves leading oncology research strategies and bridging discovery with clinical development within a global team.

Novartis Biomedical Research is looking for a seasoned scientific leader to head the Oncology Translational Research group. This position focuses on guiding complex, cross-functional efforts to connect early discovery with clinical strategy, ensuring that deep biological knowledge translates into effective therapeutic and biomarker approaches for cancer programs across the organization.

Responsibilities

• Establish and steer translational research strategies using strong knowledge of cancer biology, molecular signaling, and biomarker science.
• Convert intricate biological findings into practical therapeutic hypotheses and clinical development plans.
• Guide oncology initiatives from initial discovery phases through clinical translation, maintaining high scientific standards and strategic focus.
• Manage studies on mechanisms of action, combination therapies, and biomarker identification.
• Serve as a central connector between drug discovery, translational science, bioinformatics, and clinical groups.
• Shape decisions and unite stakeholders across a worldwide, matrixed research structure.
• Collaborate with data science and computational experts to merge genomic and molecular data into program planning.
• Interpret data accurately to provide clear scientific and clinical insights.
• Mentor and lead diverse teams, promoting a workplace built on scientific excellence, responsibility, and teamwork.
• Present scientific strategies and outcomes to executive leadership, governance committees, and external collaborators.
• Enhance the organization's external scientific presence through publications, conference participation, and partnerships.

Requirements

• PhD in Molecular Biology, Cancer Biology, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics, or a closely related field.
• Postdoctoral training followed by a minimum of four years in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, or academic translational research.
• Proven experience leading oncology research and translational therapeutic projects.
• Demonstrated success in managing multidisciplinary scientific programs within matrixed environments.
• Excellent abilities in scientific communication, leadership, collaboration, and mentoring.
• Strong history of scientific innovation, publications, and translational impact.
• High scientific curiosity, agility, and a positive, solution-oriented mindset.

What the company offers

• Expected Annual Base Salary Range for role: CHF 122,500 to CHF 227,500
• Performance-based bonus eligibility depending on performance parameters.
• Competitive benefits including insurance plans, retirement plans, wellbeing resources, and global recognition programs.
• Flexible and hybrid working options where possible, and minimum 14 weeks paid parental leave.

About the company

Novartis is dedicated to reimagining medicine together and rewarding the individuals who contribute to this mission. The company upholds pay equity as a core principle, striving to foster a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace where every employee is treated with dignity and respect, in line with its Code of Ethics.

• Commitment to reimagining medicine and recognizing employee contributions.
• Pay equity as a fundamental employment principle.
• Focus on creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment.
• Treatment of all employees with dignity and respect per the Code of Ethics.