Principal Scientist, Early Pipeline Development

Novartis

8d • $108,500 - $222,300 • Onsite

About The Position

The Principal Scientist I/II will develop state-of-the-art downstream purification processes for next-generation AAV gene therapy and execute early-stage process development, with a focus on assessing the developability of AAV gene therapy lead candidates. The role also develops platform processes for existing and novel AAV capsids and cargo vectors. This is an onsite position in San Diego, California.

The position leads and manages a 3–5-person downstream process team, providing technical support, training, and subject matter expertise to support team members’ professional development. It coordinates work with upstream process and analytical associates and collaborates with Disease Areas and other functions to support early drug discovery, from target selection and validation through lead compound selection and developability assessment.

The Principal Scientist transfers manufacturing process knowledge to Technical Research & Development and works with that team to develop innovative, cost-effective downstream processes and advance pipeline programs into clinical phases. The role manages multiple project workflows and prepares written reports in accordance with documentation practices, including use of an electronic lab notebook. Other related duties may be assigned.

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 thought.
• 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.
• Transfer manufacturing process knowledge to the Technical Research & Development team as a subject matter expert and help 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 according to defined documentation practices, including maintaining an electronic lab notebook.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package for eligible US-based employees, including health, life, and disability benefits.
• 401(k) with company contribution and match.
• Vacation, personal days, holidays, and other leaves.
• Performance-based cash incentive.
• Depending on role level, eligibility to be considered for annual equity awards.

What This Job Offers

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