Principal Scientist, Structural Biologics

# Principal Scientist, Structural BiologicsREQ-Jul 08, 2026

USA Available in:

English### Summary The Biologics Research Center, Structural Biologics department is looking for a highly motivated Principal Scientist to support experimental structural biology across multiple biotherapeutic programs. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in all aspects of the gene to structure pipeline including the acquisition and interpretation of structural biology data from X-ray crystallography and/or CryoEM. The candidate will be part of multidisciplinary teams that support early to late stage biotherapeutic drug discovery programs by providing structural data and protein engineering support.

They will use their experience in the gene-to-structure pipeline to address the challenges of high-resolution structure determination to support the design of novel biotherapeutics capable of addressing the next generation of biomedical applications.### About the Role
** Internal

Job Title:

** Principal Scientist I
*
* Position Location:

** San Diego, CA onsite

The Biologics Research Center, Structural Biologics department is looking for a highly motivated Principal Scientist to support experimental structural biology across multiple biotherapeutic programs. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in all aspects of the gene to structure pipeline including the acquisition and interpretation of structural biology data from X-ray crystallography and/or CryoEM. The candidate will be part of multidisciplinary teams that support early to late stage biotherapeutic drug discovery programs by providing structural data and protein engineering support.

They will use their experience in the gene-to-structure pipeline to address the challenges of high-resolution structure determination to support the design of novel biotherapeutics capable of addressing the next generation of biomedical applications.

Your Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
* Design, troubleshooting and execution of experiments to determine the structure of multi-protein complexes by X-ray crystallography or CryoEM with an aim to support the design and development of novel biotherapeutics.
* Working closely across experimental and computational groups to address key scientific questions.
* Communication of results to multidisciplinary teams across the larger Novartis research organization.
* Prioritization, coordination and efficient time management of experimental deliverables.
* Mentor junior scientists, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and scientific excellence. Contribute to overall strategy in the structural biology group.
* Awareness of the external technology landscape and its application to biotherapeutic drug development.
* Participation as structural biology representative on drug discovery and technology project teams, contributing to overall project strategy with accountability within the project for own area of expertise.
** Essential Requirements:
*** PhD degree in biophysics, biochemistry, or related discipline with a proven record in experimental structural biology.
* 3+ years experience (Postdoc or industry experience) in common protein purification methods (Affinity, IMAC, SEC) and molecular biology techniques (cloning, DNA isolation, transformation, etc.).
* Interest in using AI/ML methods in a structural biology context.
* Demonstrated independent thought/creativity in science with attention to details.
* Proven ability in structural biology methods (either X-ray crystallography and/or CryoEM, both preferred) including protein crystallization, crystal optimization, CryoEM sample and grid preparation, data acquisition, map generation and structure solution.
* Demonstrated problem-solving capability for challenging structural biology projects, with expertise in developing protocols for dealing with novel protein targets.
* High degree of self-motivation and attention to detail.
* Strong organizational and time management skills.
* Desire to learn/operate across numerous functions (expression, purification, analytics, structural biology, and computational modelling).
** Desired Requirements:
*** Experience with using AI-based techniques to facilitate protein construct design, engineering and protein structure prediction is preferred.
* Familiarity with analytical and biophysical methods (light scattering, ITC, DSC, LCMS, anSEC, etc.) and laboratory automation is highly desirable.

The salary for this position is expected to range between $108,500 and $201,500 per year. The final salary offered is determined based on factors like, but not limited to, relevant skills and experience, and upon joining Novartis will be reviewed periodically. Novartis may change the published salary range based on company and market factors.

Your compensation will include 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 will receive a comprehensive benefits…