Principal Scientist – Analytics Team Lead (PCA & MS)

About the role

The Biologics Research Center (BRC) at Novartis BioMedical Research is looking for an experienced leader in Physical Chemistry Analytics (PCA) and Mass Spectrometry (MS) to join its Analytics, Bioanalytics and Formulation unit in Cambridge, MA, an onsite position. As Team Lead, you will guide the analytics strategy for biologics modalities ranging from traditional antibodies to gene therapy viral vectors, ensuring quality of material and supporting candidate selection.

Key responsibilities

• Drive the PCA and MS analytics strategy in Cambridge, working globally in a matrix organization to support a diverse biologics pipeline moving toward clinical development.
• Act as a senior analytics expert in project teams, ensuring high-quality deliverables.
• Foster streamlined processes, optimal use of capacity and continuous innovation, incorporating the latest technologies.
• Manage resources, project activities and timelines, maintain a strong customer focus and set objectives for the team.
• Lead and coach a team of up to 5 associates, driving collaboration, integrity and team development in a safe, empowering environment.

Required profile

• PhD or equivalent in biochemistry, biotechnology, chemistry or a related field, with 3+ years of related experience in the pharmaceutical industry.
• 2+ years of experience as a people manager.
• Scientific background in analyzing recombinant proteins (mAbs, bi/tri-specific mAbs, therapeutic proteins) by mass spectrometry, chromatography, capillary electrophoresis and light scattering.
• Experience implementing and supervising characterization of PCA techniques for novel biologics such as multispecific antibodies, AAV, ADCs and oligonucleotides, including evaluating new instrumentation and developing applications to existing technologies.
• Proven ability to lead, coach and develop people.

Required skills

• Modern LC-MS techniques (intact/reduced/subunit RPMS, peptide mapping, released glycans) and instrumentation management (orbitraps, QTOFs).
• Hyphenated MS techniques (SEC-MS, CE-MS); interpreting CDMS results for AAV analysis is beneficial, direct instrument experience not required.
• Data analysis workflows and report generation.
• Chemical biology, drug development and molecular biology.

What we offer

• Expected salary of $108,500-$201,500 per year for Principal Scientist I and $119,700-$222,300 per year for Principal Scientist II, depending on skills and experience.
• Performance-based cash incentive and possible eligibility for annual equity awards.
• Health, life and disability benefits, 401(k) with company contribution and match, and a time-off package including vacation, personal days and holidays.