Principal Scientist, Structural Biologics

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. They will work as part of multidisciplinary teams that support early to late stage drug discovery programs, providing structural data and protein engineering support.

The role requires experience in the gene‑to‑structure pipeline to address challenges of high‑resolution structure determination and support the design of novel biotherapeutics for next‑generation biomedical applications.

Internal

Job Title:

Principal Scientist I

Position Location: San Diego, CA onsite

• Design, troubleshoot, and execute experiments to determine the structure of multi‑protein complexes by X‑ray crystallography or CryoEM with the aim to support the design and development of novel biotherapeutics.
• Collaborate closely with 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 the overall strategy of the structural biology group.
• Stay aware of the external technology landscape and its application to biotherapeutic drug development.
• Represent structural biology on drug discovery and technology project teams, contributing to overall project strategy and owning the area of expertise.

• PhD degree in biophysics, biochemistry, or related discipline with a proven record in experimental structural biology.
• 3+ years experience (Postdoc or industry) in 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 detail.
• Proven ability in structural biology methods (X‑ray crystallography and/or CryoEM, both preferred) including crystallization, optimization, CryoEM sample/grid preparation, data acquisition, map generation, and structure solution.
• Demonstrated problem‑solving capability for challenging structural biology projects, with expertise in developing protocols for 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).

• 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.

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 such as relevant skills, experience, and projected performance; it will be reviewed upon joining Novartis and can be adjusted by the company. Novartis may change the published salary range to align with market and company factors.

Your compensation will include a performance‑based cash incentive and, depending on the level of the role, eligibility for annual equity awards.

US‑based eligible employees will 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 receive a generous time‑off package including vacation, personal days, holidays, and other leaves.

To learn more about the culture, rewards, and benefits we offer our people, .

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