Principal Scientist, Structural Biologics

Job Description 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 Cryo‑EM.

The role involves working with multidisciplinary teams that support early to late stage biotherapeutic drug discovery programs by providing structural data and protein engineering support. The successful candidate will address challenges of high‑resolution structure determination to support the design of novel biotherapeutics for the next generation of biomedical applications.

• Design, troubleshoot, and execute experiments to determine the structure of multi‑protein complexes by X‑ray crystallography or Cryo‑EM with the aim of supporting the design and development of novel biotherapeutics.
• Work closely across experimental and computational groups to address key scientific questions.
• Communicate results to multidisciplinary teams across the larger Novartis research organization.
• Prioritize, coordinate, and manage experimental deliverables efficiently.
• Mentor junior scientists, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and scientific excellence.
• Contribute to overall strategy in the structural biology group.
• Maintain awareness of the external technology landscape and its application to biotherapeutic drug development.
• Participate as a structural biology representative on drug discovery and technology project teams, contributing to overall project strategy with accountability for the area of expertise.

• PhD degree in biophysics, biochemistry, or related discipline with a proven record in experimental structural biology.
• 3+ years of 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 and creativity in science with attention to detail.
• Proven ability in structural biology methods (X‑ray crystallography and/or Cryo‑EM, both preferred) including protein crystallization, crystal optimization, Cryo‑EM sample and grid preparation, data acquisition, map generation, and structure solution.
• Demonstrated problem‑solving capability for challenging structural biology projects, including developing protocols for novel protein targets.
• High degree of self‑motivation and attention to detail.
• Strong organizational and time‑management skills.
• Desire to learn and operate across numerous functions (expression, purification, analytics, structural biology, and computational modeling).

• Experience with AI‑based techniques to facilitate protein construct design, engineering, and protein structure prediction.
• Familiarity with analytical and biophysical methods (light scattering, ITC, DSC, LCMS, aSEC, etc.) and laboratory automation.

The salary for this position ranges from $108,500 to $201,500 per year. The final salary offered is determined based on factors such as relevant skills and experience and will be reviewed periodically after joining Novartis.

Compensation includes a performance‑based cash incentive and, depending on the level of the role, eligibility 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 are also eligible for a generous time‑off package that includes vacation, personal days, holidays, and other leaves.

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, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status.

The Novartis Group of Companies are committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process or to perform the essential functions of a position, please contact reasonab or call +1(877)395‑2339. Please include the job requisition number in your message.