Principal Scientist, Structural Biologics

Position:
Principal Scientist I – Structural Biology, San Diego, CA (Onsite). The Biologics Research Center’s Structural Biologics department seeks a highly motivated Principal Scientist to support experimental structural biology across multiple biotherapeutic programs. The ideal candidate will possess hands‑on experience with the gene‑to‑structure pipeline, including acquisition and interpretation of structural biology data from X‑ray crystallography and/or CryoEM.

The role involves designing, troubleshooting, and executing experiments to determine the structure of multi‑protein complexes, working closely with experimental and computational groups, communicating results to multidisciplinary teams, prioritizing and coordinating experimental deliverables, mentoring junior scientists, contributing to overall structural biology group strategy, staying aware of external technology landscape, and participating as a structural biology representative on drug discovery and technology project teams.

• Design, troubleshoot, and execute experiments to determine the structure of multi‑protein complexes by X‑ray crystallography or CryoEM.
• 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 and foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and scientific excellence.
• Contribute to overall strategy within 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 and owning accountability within the project for the area of expertise.

• PhD in biophysics, biochemistry, or a related discipline with a proven record in experimental structural biology.
• 3+ years of post‑doctoral 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 and creativity in science with strong attention to detail.
• Proven ability in structural biology methods (X‑ray crystallography and/or CryoEM) 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, 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 using AI‑based techniques to facilitate protein construct design, engineering, and protein structure prediction.
• Familiarity with analytical and biophysical methods (light scattering, ITC, DSC, LCMS, anSEC, etc.) and laboratory automation.

• Salary range: $108,500 – $201,500 per year, determined by relevant skills and experience; reviewed periodically upon joining.
• Performance‑based cash incentive and eligibility to be considered for annual equity awards for higher‑level roles.
• Comprehensive benefits package for US‑based eligible employees, including health, life, disability, 401(k) with company contribution and match, and a generous time‑off package (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 the position, please contact reasonab or call +1‑877‑395‑2339. Include the job requisition number in your message.