Principal Scientist, Early Pipeline Development

Novartis•San Diego, CA

6d•Onsite

About The Position

Novartis is seeking a highly motivated Principal Scientist I/II with extensive AAV gene therapy manufacturing experience. The role develops state-of-the-art downstream purification processes for next-generation AAV and executes early-stage process development focused on the developability of AAV gene therapy lead candidates. It also supports new platform process development for existing and novel AAV capsids and cargo vectors. The position leads and manages a 3–5 person downstream process team, provides technical support and training, and contributes to the professional development of direct reports. The scientist coordinates with upstream process and analytical teams, collaborates with Disease Areas and other functions to support early drug discovery, and transfers process knowledge to Technical Research & Development to advance pipeline programs into clinical phases. The role is onsite in San Diego, California.

Requirements

PhD in bioprocessing, biochemical engineering, gene therapy, or a related field.
At least 3 years of relevant process development experience in a biotechnology or pharmaceutical environment.
Experience in people management.
Knowledge of downstream purification processes, including affinity and ion-exchange chromatography.
Hands-on experience with AKTA purification systems.
Technical proficiency, creativity, and independent thinking.
Effective communication skills to convey scientific concepts to research scientists and cross-functional collaborators.
Strong organizational and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
Ability to work in a fast-paced, matrix environment.

Nice To Haves

Experience in AAV gene therapy.
Experience with viral gene therapy.

Responsibilities

Lead and manage a 3–5 person downstream process team, providing technical support, training, and subject-matter expertise to support direct reports’ professional development.
Coordinate activities with associates across upstream process and analytical teams.
Develop strategies with Disease Areas and partner with line functions to support early drug discovery, from target selection and validation through lead compound selection and developability assessment.
Serve as a subject-matter expert and transfer manufacturing process knowledge to the Technical Research & Development team to advance pipeline programs into clinical phases.
Collaborate with Technical Research & Development to develop innovative and cost-effective downstream processes for next-generation AAV.
Manage multiple project workflows to ensure timely delivery.
Prepare written reports in accordance with defined documentation practices, including use of an electronic lab notebook.
Perform other related duties as assigned.