Principal Scientist, Mid​/Scale Oligonucleotide Synthesis, xRNA Therapeutics

Principal Scientist, Mid/Large Scale Oligonucleotide Synthesis, xRNA Therapeutics

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We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced PhD-level scientist to lead our mid/large xRNA synthesis team in Basel. This position requires extensive collaboration within a multidisciplinary environment, bridging research and development to discover and advance innovative siRNA therapies addressing significant unmet medical needs.

Location:

Basel, Switzerland #onsite

• Oversee a state-of-the-art oligonucleotide synthesis facility, managing both capital and consumables budgets efficiently.
• Lead and guide a team of scientists specializing in oligonucleotide synthesis and purification of oligonucleotides at millimole scale to deliver on our growing siRNA portfolio
• Ensure the delivery of high-quality siRNA products for both in vitro screening and in vivo evaluation within drug candidate pipelines.
• Collaborate with discovery xRNA existing oligonucleotide synthesis teams in Basel as well as in Cambridge
• Provide technical leadership to the scale‑up team in the synthesis of oligonucleotides, optimize methodologies and processes to improve efficiencies
• Collaborate with synthetic chemists and project teams to scale up new siRNA chemistries that address critical scientific challenges and facilitate their seamless transition into development.
• Document and effectively communicate results and scientific insights to internal and external stakeholders through patent applications and scientific publications.
• Mentor and support team members by sharing technical expertise and hands‑on experience within the work environment.
• Excellent problem solving skills and solution orientated mindset

• A PhD in synthetic chemistry focused on oligonucleotides. 2-3 years experience in the industry setting
• Proven practical experience in oligonucleotide solid phase synthesis and downstream processing with an expertise in a mid/large scale oligo synthesis and in process development.
• Demonstrated leadership abilities and experience developing scientific teams.
• Capacity to promote and implement innovative ideas within a global team context.
• Strong independent problem‑solving skills.
• Proven collaborative attitude
• Proficiency in managing multiple priorities effectively while maintaining focus where necessary.
• Excellent verbal and written communication abilities.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion:
Novartis is committed to building an outstanding, inclusive work environment and diverse teams' representative of the patients and communities we serve.

Accessibility and accommodation:
Novartis is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to all individuals. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the recruitment process, or in order to receive more detailed information about the essential functions of a position, please send an e‑mail to inclu and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information.

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Why Novartis:
Helping people with disease and their families takes more than innovative science. It takes a community of smart, passionate people like you. Collaborating, supporting and inspiring each other. Combining to achieve breakthroughs that change patients’ lives. Ready to create a brighter future together?

Benefits and Rewards:
Read our handbook to learn about all the ways we’ll help you thrive personally and professionally:

• Mid-Senior level

• Full-time

• Research, Analyst, and Information Technology

• Pharmaceutical Manufacturing

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