Research Scientist - xRNA Biology

Band

Level 2

Job Description Summary

Work Arrangement: Onsite #LI-Onsite

Location: Cambridge, United States

Relocation Support: This role is based in Cambridge, United States. Novartis is unable to offer relocation support: please only apply if accessible.

At the Novartis, we are reimagining medicine by transforming breakthrough science into life-changing therapies for patients worldwide. As a Research Scientist in the xRNA Biology group, you will join a highly collaborative team at the forefront of RNA therapeutics, helping advance innovative small interfering RNA programs from discovery through development. This is an exciting opportunity to work with cutting-edge technologies, contribute directly to therapeutic innovation, and accelerate the development of the next generation of nucleic acid medicines.

Job Description

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct biochemical assays including Reverse Transcription Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction, Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay, and immunoprecipitation studies.
• Isolate and quantify small interfering RNA and messenger RNA from cell and tissue samples.
• Perform cell culture maintenance and execute in vitro transfection experiments.
• Generate high-quality bioanalytical data to support small interfering RNA therapeutic development.
• Analyze experimental results and provide clear scientific recommendations to project teams.
• Prepare experimental protocols, technical reports, and scientific presentations for internal stakeholders.
• Support biodistribution, pharmacokinetic, and stability assessments across multiple therapeutic programs.

Essential Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree with relevant industry or academic experience in Biology, Molecular Biology, or a related scientific field.
• Hands-on experience in RT-PCR
• Hands-on experience with cell culture, messenger RNA isolation, and Reverse Transcription Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction techniques.
• Strong scientific problem-solving skills with the ability to independently execute and troubleshoot experiments.
• Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong collaboration and communication skills with the ability to effectively present and discuss scientific findings.

Desirable Requirements

• Experience with small interfering RNA, antisense oligonucleotides, or other oligonucleotide-based therapeutics

Why Novartis?

Our purpose is to reimagine medicine to improve and extend people’s lives and our vision is to become the most valued and trusted medicines company in the world. How can we achieve this? With our people. It is our associates that drive us each day to reach our ambitions. Be a part of this mission and join us.

Rewards

The salary for this position is expected to range between $66,800 & $124,000 per year. The final salary offered is determined based on factors like, but not limited to, relevant skills and experience, and upon joining Novartis will be reviewed periodically. Novartis may change the published salary range based on company and market factors.

Your compensation will include a performance-based cash incentive and, depending on the level of the role, eligibility to be considered for annual equity awards.

US-based eligible employees will receive a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, life and disability benefits, a 401(k) with company contribution and match, and a variety of other benefits. In addition, employees are eligible for a generous time off package including vacation, personal days, holidays and other leaves.

To learn more about the culture, rewards and benefits we offer our people click here .

EEO Statement

The Novartis Group of Companies are Equal Opportunity Employers. We do not discriminate in recruitment, hiring, training, promotion or other employment practices for reasons of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status. We strive to create an inclusive workplace that cultivates bold innovation through collaboration and empowers our people to unleash their full potential.

Accessibility and reasonable accommodations

The Novartis Group of Companies are committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process, or in order to perform the essential functions of a position, please send an e-mail to tas.nacomms@novartis.com call +1 (877)395-2339 and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Please include the job requisition number in your message.

https://www.novartis.com/careers/careers-research/notice-all-applicants-us-job-openings

Salary Range

$66,800.00 - $124,000.00

Skills Desired

Algorithms, Analytical Thinking, Chemical Biology, Clinical Research, Clinical Trials, Collaboration, Curious Mindset, Data Analysis, Detail-Oriented, Ethics, Hypothesis Testing, Immunology, Mammalian Cell Culture, Medical Research, Molecular Biology, Science