Associate Scientist - Upstream Cell Culture

Associate Scientist – Upstream Cell Culture

Location:

Durham, USA. This role is based in Durham, USA. Novartis is unable to offer relocation support for this role. Please apply only if this location is accessible to you.

The Technical Research & Development (TRD) Department drives the advancement of the Adeno‑associated virus (AAV) and Lentiviral vector (LVV) production platform across multiple development sites and manages the development, scale‑up, scale‑down, transfer, optimization, and characterization of processes for the clinical manufacturing of Novartis cell gene therapy products.

Major accountabilities include:

• Designs and executes gene therapy upstream process development studies.
• Supports early development study projects and late‑stage process characterization and scaling up studies.
• Analyses and interprets experimental data from process studies with a strong statistical mindset.
• Conducts laboratory studies to enhance AAV and LVV manufacturing technologies, capabilities, and processes (such as media development, bioreactor fed‑batch and perfusion process development, optimization, and scale‑up).
• Performs experiments at different scales to support pre‑clinical, clinical and commercial programs.
• Assists the evaluation and introduction of new technologies.
• Authors technical reports and presents results of development studies both internally and externally.
• Collaborates with cross‑functional groups to coordinate studies.
• Other related duties as assigned.

• Experience with bioreactor operation including am ® (15 & 250), bench‑top bioreactor, pilot scale bioreactor.
• Proficient in statistical analysis principles and software. Working knowledge and experience with Design of Experiment (DoE).
• Ability to analyze data to make data‑driven decisions and further progress development strategies.
• Knowledge of viral gene therapy and previous experience with AAV process development is preferred.
• Excellent team player with good communication skills.

The salary for this position is expected to range between $73,500.00 – $ USD per year. The final salary offered is determined based on factors such as relevant skills and experience, and will be reviewed upon joining. Novartis may change the published salary range based on company and market factors.

Compensation includes 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 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. Employees also have a generous time‑off package including vacation, personal days, holidays and other leaves.

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