Principal Scientist, Biomarker Assay Development

About the role

Novartis Biomedical Research is looking for a Principal Scientist (Level 4) to run bench research in a laboratory focused on preclinical and clinical biomarker assay development within Disease Area X (DAx). The role designs, develops and qualifies biomarker assays supporting drug discovery and development programs covering renal, liver, fibrosis and exploratory indications, within a matrixed team.

Key responsibilities

• Design, develop and qualify preclinical and clinical biomarker assays (cellular, soluble, proteomic, genetic and genomic) for target engagement, pharmacodynamics and patient stratification.
• Focus on ligand binding assays such as ELISA, MSD and immunoassays, ensuring robust, fit-for-purpose performance.
• Run hands-on laboratory research, including assay development, optimization and troubleshooting.
• Analyze and interpret data, collaborating with Translational Medicine, Biomarker Development and DAx project teams.
• Support implementation of assays in preclinical and clinical studies, including documentation and reporting.
• Maintain good laboratory practice, record keeping and compliance with safety and regulatory guidelines.
• Present findings in lab meetings and contribute to publications and internal reports.

Required profile

• PhD or MD, postdoctoral fellowship preferred, with 4+ years' experience, or BS/MS with 8+ years' experience.
• Hands-on experience designing and running ligand binding assays and biomarker assay development.
• Proven expertise in assay development and qualification for preclinical and/or clinical studies across animal and human matrices.
• Excellent communication skills and commitment to scientific rigor.

Desirable requirements

• Multiomics profiling and patient stratification experience, especially in renal, liver or fibrosis.
• Familiarity with animal models and ex vivo assays.
• Hands-on RNA assays and/or LC-MS quantification.
• Knowledge of statistics and computational data analysis.
• Experience working with CROs or external vendors.

What we offer

• Expected salary of $108,500-$201,500 for Principal Scientist I and $126,000-$234,000 for Principal Scientist II, with periodic review.
• Performance-based cash incentive and possible annual equity awards.
• Health, life and disability benefits, 401(k) with company match, and time off including vacation and holidays.