Principal Scientist, Biomarker Assay Development Bench Scientist
About The Position
Novartis Biomedical Research is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Principal Scientist (Level 4) to conduct bench research in a laboratory focused on preclinical and clinical biomarker assay development within Disease Area X (DAx). This position is integral to designing, developing, and qualifying biomarker assays that support drug discovery and development programs across DAx’s diverse portfolio, including renal, liver, fibrosis, and exploratory indications. The successful candidate will work collaboratively within a matrixed team and contribute technical expertise to translational strategies that enable patient stratification and clinical impact.
Requirements
- PhD or MD, Postdoctoral Fellowship preferred, with 4+ years’ experience in scientific and technical discipline of relevant field, or BS/MS with 8+ years’ experience in scientific and technical discipline of relevant field.
- Hands-on experience with designing and executing LBA assays
- Demonstrated experience in biomarker assay development, proteomics, genetics, genomics, or related fields within pharma or biotech.
- Demonstrated expertise in assay development, qualification, and implementation for preclinical and/or clinical studies across various animal and human matrices.
- Proven skill in independently developing and executing biochemical and cellular assays for drug discovery.
- Innovative and critical thinking, with a track record of scientific impact and continuous improvement.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills.
- Commitment to scientific rigor, curiosity, and accountability in laboratory research.
Nice To Haves
- Experience with multiomics profiling and patient stratification approaches, especially as applied to renal, liver, fibrosis, or exploratory disease areas.
- Familiarity with animal models and ex vivo assays is a plus.
- Hands-on experience with RNA assays and/or LC-MS based biomarker or assay quantification an added plus.
- Knowledge of statistics and computational data analysis is desirable.
- Experience working with CROs or external vendors to support assay development, biomarker studies or analytical deliverables.
Responsibilities
- Design, develop, and qualify preclinical and clinical biomarker assays (cellular, soluble, proteomic, genetic, and genomic) to support target engagement, pharmacodynamics, and patient stratification for DAx programs.
- Ensuring analytical rigor, robustness, and “fit-for purpose” performance expectations and technical assessment standards.
- Execute laboratory-based research, including hands-on assay development, optimization, and troubleshooting.
- Analyze and interpret experimental data, ensuring scientific rigor and reproducibility.
- Collaborate with Translational Medicine, Biomarker Development, and DAx project teams to align assay strategies with DAx therapeutic area priorities.
- Support the implementation of biomarker assays in preclinical and clinical studies, including documentation and reporting of results.
- Maintain exemplary laboratory practices, including accurate record keeping and adherence to safety and regulatory guidelines.
- Present research findings in lab meetings and contribute to scientific publications and internal reports.
Benefits
- health, life and disability benefits
- a 401(k) with company contribution and match
- a variety of other benefits
- generous time off package including vacation, personal days, holidays and other leaves
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Principal
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
