Research Scientist I/II, Biology (Dual Posting)

Novartis • Cambridge, MA

3d • $92,800 - $150,800 • Onsite

About The Position

The Novartis BioMedical Research Oncology Disease Area is seeking an experienced scientist to join the Target Biology and Discovery (TBaD) group. The mission of our group is to uncover novel therapeutic targets and effective modalities to benefit cancer patients. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies, innovative screening approaches, and in-depth mechanistic studies, the team initiates the crucial first steps in bringing new oncology medicines to the clinic.

Requirements

• B.S. or M.S. in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Chemical Biology, or a related field
• Experience in cellular assay development, hit identification, and downstream characterization
• Strong proficiency in mammalian cell culture, molecular biology techniques, and protein analysis workflows (e.g., Western blotting, FACS)
• Experience with CRISPR-based gene editing technologies (e.g., CRISPRi, CRISPRa, base editing, prime editing)
• Demonstrated ability to contribute to drug discovery efforts and collaborate effectively within matrixed teams
• Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver high-quality results
• Scientific curiosity, problem-solving capability, and commitment to improving patient outcomes

Nice To Haves

• Experience with automation systems for high-throughput screening (384- and 1536-well formats)
• Background in chemical biology, targeted protein degradation, induced proximity, or related modalities

Responsibilities

• Apply modern chemical genetics approaches to identify and validate novel targets and elucidate pathway dependencies in oncology programs
• Develop and optimize cellular assays for compound identification and characterization, including degradation assays (HiBIT, Prolabel), protein-protein interaction assays (NanoBIT), viability assays (CTG), and reporter-gene systems
• Support project teams by building assay capabilities to enable chemical tool development and early therapeutic discovery, while contributing to mechanistic studies
• Leverage genome editing technologies (e.g., CRISPR-based tools) to perform genetic screens and investigate mechanism of action
• Explore emerging therapeutic modalities, including targeted protein degradation and proximity-inducing approaches, to address challenging targets
• Collaborate cross-functionally and externally to drive innovation and contribute to team culture and scientific excellence

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
• performance-based cash incentive
• eligibility to be considered for annual equity awards

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree