Senior Scientist I or II, Oligonucleotide Chemistry and Innovation

Summary

Job Title:

Senior Scientist I or II, Oligonucleotide Chemistry and Innovation

Location:

Cambridge, USA

What if your expertise could help shape the next generation of RNA medicines? At Novartis, we're advancing breakthrough xRNA therapeutics that have the potential to transform patients' lives, and we're looking for a talented scientist to help drive that mission forward. As a Senior Scientist in Oligonucleotide Chemistry and Innovation, you'll play a critical hands‑on role in developing and optimizing therapeutic oligonucleotides, applying cutting‑edge chemistry to solve complex scientific challenges.

Working alongside a highly collaborative team of experts, you'll have the opportunity to influence scientific strategy, champion innovation, and contribute directly to pioneering therapies in a fast‑paced and rewarding research environment.

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

• Execute solid-phase synthesis of therapeutic oligonucleotides using automated DNA and RNA synthesizer platforms.
• Purify and characterize oligonucleotides using chromatographic and mass spectrometry-based analytical techniques.
• Develop and optimize synthesis, purification, and analytical methods to improve efficiency and product quality.
• Operate, troubleshoot, and maintain critical laboratory instrumentation to ensure reliable data generation.
• Identify and implement innovative oligonucleotide chemistries to advance RNA therapeutic discovery programs.
• Analyze, interpret, and present experimental results to multidisciplinary scientific teams and stakeholders.
• Maintain accurate electronic laboratory records and support reproducible, high-quality scientific practices.

• Bachelor of Science or Master of Science in Chemistry or a related scientific field.
• Significant hands‑on experience in oligonucleotide synthesis and conjugation within an academic or industry setting.
• Demonstrated expertise using automated DNA and RNA synthesizer platforms.
• Experience purifying and characterizing oligonucleotides using chromatographic and mass spectrometry techniques.
• Strong data analysis, documentation, and scientific presentation skills.
• Proven ability to thrive in a collaborative, fast‑paced research environment while managing multiple priorities.

• Doctor of Philosophy in Chemistry or a closely related scientific discipline.
• Experience developing and optimizing methods incorporating specialty phosphoramidite building blocks.
• Expertise with high-resolution liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry analytical techniques for oligonucleotide characterization.
• Experience supporting the discovery and development of RNA therapeutics, including small interfering RNA and antisense oligonucleotides.
• Exposure to high-throughput oligonucleotide synthesis workflows and process innovation.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently with urgency, accountability, and strong organizational skills.

At Novartis, we’re committed to reimagining medicine together - and rewarding the people who make it happen. The rewards of being part of our team go far beyond base pay and incentives. We also offer a variety of competitive benefits in kind to help you thrive personally and professionally, such as insurance plans, retirement plans, wellbeing resources and global recognition programs.

In addition, we provide flexible and hybrid working options, where possible, and a minimum of 14 weeks paid parental leave.

• US: 93,800. USD Annual

The salary offered is determined based on gender‑neutral objectives, such as relevant skills, competencies and experience in accordance with the Novartis pay setting policy and upon joining Novartis will be reviewed periodically.

In addition to your base salary, you may be eligible for a performance-based bonus depending on certain performance parameters. Further details will be provided during the application process.

Pay equity is a fundamental principle of our employment policy and reflects our commitment to create a diverse,…