Principal Scientist - Formulation

Novartis•Cambridge, MA

4d•$108,500 - $222,300•Onsite

About The Position

Novartis Biomedical Research’s Biologics Center is seeking an experienced biologics formulation scientist to join its Analytics, Bioanalytic, and Formulation unit in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The unit supports characterization and formulation of therapeutic protein candidates across multiple formats, from discovery through transition to development, in a collaborative global environment. The Principal Scientist will lead and execute formulation development and characterization strategies for complex biologics, including monoclonal antibodies, multispecifics, antibody-drug conjugates, and other modalities. The role shapes early-stage formulation strategies and supports candidate selection by identifying developability risks. It includes experimental and strategic contributions, as well as leadership, mentorship, and functional management of a team of more than 10 associates. The scientist will work with biologics discovery, technical development, CMC, automation teams, and other cross-functional R&D stakeholders. The position involves developing stabilization strategies for liquid, frozen, and lyophilized drug products; supporting clinical candidates and drug product process development; applying analytical and biophysical methods; and communicating findings through technical reports, presentations, and scientific discussions.

Requirements

PhD in biochemistry, biotechnology, chemistry, or a related field.
At least 2 years of relevant industry experience.
Proven experience leading, coaching, and developing scientific teams.
Hands-on expertise in protein formulations and assessment of molecular biophysical properties, such as DLS, viscosity, and thermal and colloidal stability.
Strong background developing formulation strategies for large-molecule therapeutics and understanding early-stage development workflows.
Experience designing and executing preformulation studies and interpreting stability-indicating assays, such as SEC, CE, charge variants, and MS.
Demonstrated problem-solving skills, scientific curiosity, and ability to work independently.
Excellent communication, organizational, and multitasking skills.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of viral vector-based gene therapy formulation and characterization, including AAV and LVV.
Familiarity with design of experiments tools, such as JMP, for high-throughput experimental design.
Experience working with automated liquid handling systems.

Responsibilities

Design and execute formulation screening strategies for large-molecule therapeutics, particularly monoclonal antibodies and related biologic modalities.
Lead studies to identify stable formulations and communicate results to cross-functional R&D teams.
Manage team resources, timelines, and deliverables with a customer-focused mindset.
Provide leadership, mentorship, and direction to team members as the functional manager.
Promote a safe, inclusive, and collaborative environment and engage stakeholders across biologics discovery and technical development.
Partner with CMC teams to advance clinical candidates, finalize clinical formulations, and support drug product process development.
Develop stabilization strategies for liquid, frozen, and lyophilized drug product formats for clinical development.
Apply and interpret biophysical and analytical methods, including DSC, DLS, UV-Vis, turbidity, subvisible particle analysis, viscosity, SEC, and HIC.
Work with automation teams to implement high-throughput formulation screening and physicochemical characterization across discovery, optimization, and early development.
Operate analytical instrumentation, analyze data, maintain ELN documentation, and author technical reports.
Contribute to data interpretation, scientific presentations, and cross-functional discussions within the global BRC community.