Principal Scientist I/II, Molecular Pathology

Job Description Summary

Cambridge, MA (Onsite)

About the Role
The Molecular Pathology team within Oncology Translational Research at Biomedical Research (BR) is seeking a highly motivated Principal Scientist to develop, validate, and scale novel approaches to characterize protein features of drug targets. This onsite role in Cambridge, MA offers the opportunity to work in a highly collaborative laboratory environment alongside cross-functional teams.
In this role, you will lead efforts to understand how protein features-including proteoforms, localization, conformation, and interactions-impact response and resistance in cancer. You will partner closely with target validation, drug discovery, and translational teams to generate insights from patient samples and translate findings to preclinical models.
Your work will directly contribute to translational strategies across the drug development continuum, from target characterization through biomarker development.

Job Description

Key Responsibilities

• Contribute to and help shape proteomics strategy and technology platforms in a translational research environment
• Identify and develop novel scientific and methodological opportunities based on literature and internal insights
• Design, develop, and scale methods to characterize:
  • Proteoforms
  • Protein localization
  • Conformation
  • Protein-protein interactions
• Apply approaches to patient-derived samples and define translational relevance in preclinical models
• Collaborate across matrixed teams spanning Oncology Research, Discovery, and Translational Science
• Lead or contribute to cross-functional initiatives supporting target understanding and biomarker development

Essential Requirements

• PhD in Oncology, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology , or a related discipline

• Leveling criteria (dual posting):

  • Principal Scientist I : 3+ years of postdoctoral training
  • Principal Scientist II : Postdoctoral training + 3+ years of industry experience

• Proven ability to generate data that influences scientific and technical decision-making

• Experience with:

  • In vitro and in vivo models
  • Clinical or post-mortem patient samples

• Strong expertise in protein characterization techniques, including:

  • Western blotting
  • ELISA
  • FACS
  • High-content imaging
  • Microscopy-based approaches

• Experience with methods to probe, label, and enrich proteoforms or related protein features

• Strong critical thinking, communication, and collaboration skills

• Curiosity and adaptability to explore emerging technologies and scientific innovations

Desirable Qualifications

• Experience with mass spectrometry and proteomics workflows (data generation and interpretation)
• Data analysis and visualization skills (e.g., Spotfire, R )

Novartis Compensation and Benefit Summary:

The salary for this position is expected to range between $108,500.00 - 201,500.00 USD Annual per year.

The final salary offered is determined based on factors like, but not limited to, relevant skills and

experience, and upon joining Novartis will be reviewed periodically. Novartis may change the published

salary range based on company and market factors.

Your compensation will include a performance-based cash incentive and, depending on the level of the

role, eligibility to be considered 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. In

addition, employees are eligible for a generous time off package including vacation, personal days,

holidays and other leaves.

EEO Statement:

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.

Accessibility and reasonable accommodations

The Novartis Group of Companies are committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process, or to perform the essential functions of a position, please send an e-mail to View email address on click.appcast.io or call View phone number on click.appcast.io and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Please include the job requisition number in your message.

Salary Range

$108,500.00 - $201,500.00

Skills Desired

Analytical Skill, Analytical Skill, Analytical Thinking, Chemical Biology, Chemistry, Clinical Trials, Collaboration, Communication Skills, Curious Mindset, Data, Data Analysis, Design Of Experiments, Detail-Oriented, Drug Development, Drug Discovery, Ethics, Gene Therapy, Immunology, Inventory Management, Laboratory, Lifesciences, Machine Learning (ML), Management, Medical Research, Molecular Biology {+ 10 more}