Principal Scientist I/II for Multi-specific biologics in Oncology Drug Discovery

Novartis • Cambridge, MA

2d • $108,500 - $222,300 • Hybrid

About The Position

We are seeking a highly motivated Principal Scientist to join our discovery organization to identify and validate molecular targets that play key roles in disease biology. This role will contribute to advancing innovative therapeutic concepts by integrating molecular biology, biochemistry, pharmacology, and translational science approaches. The successful candidate will apply deep scientific expertise to study cellular processes, disease mechanisms, and drug-target interactions, and to design and execute experiments that enable progression of drug discovery and early development programs. This individual will work within multidisciplinary teams and collaborate across functions to deliver high-impact scientific insights that support the development of novel therapies.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in molecular biology, biochemistry, pharmacology, microbiology, immunology, cell biology, biophysics, virology, or related field
• Demonstrated experience in drug discovery, molecular target identification, or early development research
• Strong scientific expertise across one or more core disciplines including molecular biology, cellular biology, immunology, or biochemistry
• Proven ability to design experiments, analyze complex datasets, and draw clear, data-driven conclusions
• Experience working in multidisciplinary teams and collaborating across functions
• Strong communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills
• Knowledge of experimental systems including in vitro, in vivo, and/or ex vivo models

Nice To Haves

• Experience leading scientific projects or teams (direct or matrix leadership)
• Familiarity with assay development, translational models, or biomarker strategies
• Experience in drug target validation and mechanism-of-action studies
• Exposure to emerging technologies such as gene therapy, machine learning, or advanced analytics in R&D
• Experience working with external partners, academic collaborations, or cross-industry initiatives

Responsibilities

• Formulate and lead or co-lead novel drug discovery or technology projects, driving impactful scientific outcomes aligned with strategic objectives
• Influence matrix teams and cross-functional collaborators to deliver innovative solutions and advance project milestones
• Generate and implement innovative approaches to address key scientific and technical questions across projects
• Establish priorities, timelines, and data-driven decision points for own team and cross-functional project teams
• Lead or oversee discovery, technology, or early development programs, or own broad processes across multiple projects
• Identify and leverage opportunities for innovation across programs and functional areas
• Build and develop scientific capabilities within the team while contributing to broader community expertise
• Inspire teams and collaborators to progress scientific understanding and reach key decision points
• Serve as a key contributor or project lead for discovery or early development initiatives
• Execute and interpret complex experiments to generate high-quality, actionable data
• Apply scientific expertise to drive understanding of disease biology and therapeutic mechanisms
• Identify relevant scientific and technical trends and integrate them into project strategies
• Lead or contribute to projects through collaboration with internal and external partners
• Enable innovative contributions within project teams and scientific networks
• Develop or apply novel experimental methods to advance research objectives
• Influence outcomes through scientific rigor and strong technical expertise

Benefits

• health
• life and disability benefits
• a 401(k) with company contribution and match
• a variety of other benefits
• a generous time off package including vacation, personal days, holidays and other leaves

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree