Senior Scientist I​/II – Translational Immuno‑Oncology Research

Are you passionate about cancer immunology and keen to bridge exploratory research to early clinical development? This is an exciting opportunity to join the Oncology Translational Research (OTR) department at Novartis Biomedical Research in Cambridge, MA. OTR is a global, laboratory-based research organization supporting the Oncology Disease Area from early target identification through proof-of-concept clinical trials and late-stage development. OTR plays a critical role in understanding target biology, therapeutic mechanisms of action, response and resistance mechanisms, biomarker strategy, indication selection and rational combination opportunities.

We are seeking a highly motivated and innovative Senior Scientist I/II with demonstrated knowledge of cancer immunology and expertise in developing and executing assays that enable biomarker discovery and validation. This is a predominantly on-site, hands-on laboratory role supporting targeted-therapy programs in hematologic malignancies. The successful candidate will partner closely with project scientists to translate biological hypotheses into robust, decision-enabling experiments.

Location:

Cambridge, US #LI-Onsite

This role is based in Cambridge, US. Novartis is unable to offer relocation support for this role: please only apply if this location is accessible for you.

• Design, develop, troubleshoot and optimize multiparameter/spectral flow-cytometry and complementary cell-based assays to characterize immune, stromal and tumor cell populations across hematologic malignancies and solid tumors and evaluate pharmacodynamic responses.
• Execute ex vivo studies using human primary cells, tumor cell lines and patient-derived blood and tissue samples, including complex co-cultures, with rigorous sterile technique.
• Develop fit-for-purpose readouts for proliferation and viability, apoptosis, differentiation, cytokine signaling, target engagement and mechanism of action.
• Analyze and integrate experimental data using appropriate statistical and visualization tools; communicate clear interpretations, limitations and recommended next experiments to multidisciplinary project teams.
• Independently plan and execute experiments aligned with project strategy, manage competing priorities and deliver reproducible data within agreed timelines.
• Maintain accurate, complete and contemporaneous experimental records in the electronic laboratory notebook and ensure traceability of methods, samples, analyses and conclusions.
• Introduce and qualify new laboratory methods when they materially improve project decisions, throughput or data quality.
• Contribute to publications and technical reports, train colleagues in established methods and collaborate effectively across functional teams.

• This is a dual posting. The final level of the offered role will be determined by the hiring team based on the skills, experience, and capabilities required to perform the role at the offered level.
• Senior Scientist I:
  Bachelor’s degree in cell biology, molecular biology, immunology or a related discipline with 5+ years of relevant work experience; or Master’s degree in a related discipline with 3+ years of relevant work experience.
• Senior Scientist II:
  Bachelor’s degree in a relevant biological discipline with 7+ years of relevant work experience; or Master’s degree in a relevant biological discipline with 5+ years of relevant work experience.
• Advanced hands‑on experience with multiparameter or spectral flow cytometry, including panel design, sample preparation, instrument operation, acquisition, quality control and data analysis.
• Demonstrated experience with primary human cell culture and immune‑cell or tumor‑biology…