Principal Scientist - Formulation

As a Principal Scientist you will lead and execute formulation development and characterization strategies for complex biologics—including monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), multispecifics, antibody‑drug conjugates (ADCs), and other modalities. You will work closely with a team of more than 10 associates, driving scientific excellence while fostering a culture of collaboration, integrity, and innovation aligned with Novartis values. The role is based in Cambridge, MA, onsite.

• Design and execute formulation screening strategies for large‑molecule therapeutics with emphasis on mAbs 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 strong customer‑focused mindset.
• Provide leadership, mentorship, and direction to team members as the functional manager.
• Promote a safe, inclusive, and collaborative environment while engaging 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.

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

• Knowledge of viral vector‑based gene therapy (AAV, LVV) formulation and characterization.
• Familiarity with DoE tools (e.g., JMP) for high‑throughput experimental design.
• Experience working with automated liquid handling systems.

The salary for this position ranges from $108,500 to $201,500 per year for Principal Scientist I, and from $119,700 to $222,300 per year for Principal Scientist II. Final salary is determined based on relevant skills and experience and is reviewed periodically. Eligible employees receive a performance‑based cash incentive and, depending on the level, may be considered for annual equity awards. US‑based employees are eligible for a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, life and disability benefits, a 401(k) with company contribution and match, and a generous time‑off package including vacation, personal days, holidays, and other leaves.

We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you require an accommodation during the application process or to perform essential job functions, please email  or call +1 (877) 395‑2339 and include the job requisition number in your message.

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.