Principal Scientist I, Soluble Biomarkers- Molecular & Cellular Sciences (MCS)

Summary

#LI-Onsite
Internal job title: Principal Scientist I
Location: Cambridge, United States

We are seeking a motivated soluble biomarker expert to lead the development, validation, and implementation of fit-for-purpose soluble biomarker assays, with a focus on immunoassay and LC-MS based methods supporting neuromuscular and muscle disease clinical programs within the Biomarker Development (BMD) Molecular & Cellular Sciences group. This role requires strong hands-on assay development and validation expertise, scientific leadership, and the ability to translate disease biology and program needs into robust biomarker assay strategies that inform clinical decision-making. As a key member of the soluble biomarker group, you will collaborate across BMD and external partner labs to ensure high-quality and timely assay delivery, clear data interpretation, rigorous documentation, and compliance with Novartis standards.

About the Role

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop, validate, and implement immunoassay- and LC-MS–based methods to quantify exploratory soluble biomarkers for clinical programs across the Novartis portfolio, with a primary focus on neuromuscular and muscle disease programs.
• Apply hands-on assay development expertise to build robust, fit-for-purpose biomarker methods that support clinical decision-making and advance translational science objectives.
• Serve as the scientific and technical lead for exploratory soluble biomarker assays, including assay strategy, data quality, interpretation, documentation, and alignment to context of use and clinical study endpoints.
• Translate disease biology and program needs into clear biomarker assay plans in partnership with project teams, Translational Medicine, Clinical, Data Science, and external collaborators.
• Evaluate and implement innovative assay technologies and workflows to improve assay sensitivity, specificity, reproducibility, throughput, and biological relevance for neuromuscular indications.
• Analyze, interpret, and communicate biomarker and assay data to key stakeholders, project teams, and cross-functional stakeholders to support timely, evidence-based decisions.
• Partner with internal line functions and external vendors to deliver high-quality fit-for-purpose biomarker assays, and sample analysis activities within agreed timelines.
• Maintain high standards for scientific rigor, documentation, data integrity, compliance, safety, and technical excellence in accordance with applicable Novartis policies and procedures.

Essential Requirements:

• PhD with 2+ years of experience in drug discovery, translational research, or related field; or Master’s degree with 10+ years of experience in the pharmaceutical/ biotech industry.
• Strong hands-on experience developing, optimizing, validating, and troubleshooting immunoassays (ELISA, MSD, Luminex, Simoa) and LC-MS methods of varying complexity for soluble biomarkers.
• Experience with tissue biopsies, particularly muscle tissue, and associated assays or workflows such as IHC/IF, tissue collection, processing, and sample handling best practices.
• Solid experience supporting neuromuscular, muscle, or related disease biology programs, with the ability to connect assay strategy with the biomarker plan.
• Demonstrated ability to design rigorous experiments, solve complex technical problems, assess assay performance, and communicate conclusions clearly to scientific and non-scientific stakeholders.
• Experience working in cross-functional project teams and managing internal or external assay development activities, timelines, deliverables, and scientific documentation.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, including the ability to present scientific strategy, data, risks, and recommendations clearly.
• Commitment to working collaboratively in an inclusive environment and role-modeling Novartis values and behaviors.

Desirable Requirements:

• Experience with genomic, transcriptomic, proteomic, or other multi-omics approaches, including RNA-seq or related platforms.
• Strong understanding of circulating muscle proteins, including structural and functional biomarkers relevant to muscle disease biology.

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 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.

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

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