Principal Scientist, Early Pipeline Development

Job Summary

Band Level 4

Job Description

Summary:

We are seeking a highly motivated Principal Scientist I with extensive AAV gene therapy manufacturing experience to develop state‑of‑the‑art downstream purification processes for next‑generation AAV gene therapy. This role is responsible for executing early‑stage process development with focus on develop ability of lead candidates as well as new platform process development for existing and novel AAV capsids and cargo vectors.

• Lead and manage a 3‑5 person downstream process team and provide technical support, training, and SME knowledge to assist with the professional development of direct reports.
• Coordinate activities with associates across upstream process and analytical teams.
• Develop strategies in collaboration with Disease Areas and partner with various line functions to support early drug discovery from target selection and validation through lead compound selection and develop ability assessment.
• Serve as a subject matter expert to transfer manufacturing process knowledge to Technical Research & Development team and advance pipeline programs into clinical phases.
• Lead effort and work collaboratively with Technical Research & Development to develop innovative and cost‑effective downstream processes for next‑generation AAV.
• Manage multiple project workflow to ensure timely delivery.
• Prepare written reports conforming to defined documentation practices including electronic lab notebook.
• Other related duties as assigned.

• PhD in bioprocessing, biochemical engineering, gene therapy or related field with 3+ years of relevant process development experience in biotechnology/pharmaceutical environment.
• Experience in people management.
• Knowledge of downstream purification processes including affinity and ion‑exchange chromatography with hands‑on experience with AKTA purification systems.
• Technical proficiency, creativity, and independent thoughts.
• Effective communication skills to convey scientific concepts to research scientists and cross‑functional collaborators.
• Strong organization and problem‑solving skills with attention to details.
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced and matrix environment.

• Experience in AAV gene therapy.
• Experience with viral gene therapy.

Principal Scientist I: $108,500–$201,500 per year. Principal Scientist II: $119,700–$222,300 per year. Final salary offered is determined based on relevant skills and experience and is reviewed periodically upon joining. Includes performance‑based cash incentive and, depending on role level, 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 including vacation, personal days, holidays, and other leaves.

The Novartis Group of Companies is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate in recruitment, hiring, training, promotion or other employment practices for reasons of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status. We strive to create an inclusive workplace that cultivates bold innovation through collaboration and empowers our people to unleash their full potential.