Senior Scientist, Drug Discovery

#LI-OnsiteLocation: San Diego, CA This position is located on site in San Diego, CA and cannot be conducted remotely. Please only apply if this area is accessible. Be part of a multidisciplinary team accelerating the discovery of transformative medicines. The Oncology Drug Discovery department at Novartis in San Diego is seeking a highly motivated lab‐based research scientist to support drug discovery programs and interrogate cancer targets using induced proximity approaches. In this role, you will contribute to a multi‑disciplinary team with expertise in cancer biology and chemical biology. You will conduct cell‑based and biochemical experiments to interrogate mechanism of action and define pathways of activity and resistance, supporting preclinical discovery efforts across oncology programs. Key Responsibilities Design, optimize, and execute experiments to characterize protein–protein interactions and interrogate therapeutic response Apply chemical and genetic perturbation approaches in cells and in vitro to evaluate small molecule on‑target and off‑target engagement and activities Troubleshoot experiments, implement new assays, and generate and analyze high‑quality data to provide insights that inform project decisions Collaborate cross‑functionally across Novartis research teams and global sites Maintain accurate and timely documentation of experimental data, analysis, and conclusions Present findings in team and departmental meetings Foster a collaborative and friendly research environment Essential Requirements Bachelor’s degree with 4+ years of relevant experience, or Master’s degree with 2+ years of relevant experience in oncology or related research field Strong expertise in molecular biology technique (e.g. vector design, mutagenesis, RT‑qPCR) and with mammalian cell culture and cell line engineering (e.g. transfections, viral transductions, CRISPR‑based approaches) Experience interrogating protein–protein interactions (e.g. pull‑down assays, co‑immunoprecipitation, western blotting) Prior drug development expertise and cross‑functional technology collaboration is NOT essential, and the role provides an excellent environment to build these and other skills Enjoys working in the lab and possesses excellent organizational and record‑keeping skills Demonstrated curiosity, strong work ethic, and eagerness to learn Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills are essential for success in this role Preferred Requirements Previous industry experience Experience with proteomics sample preparation and validation is a plus Experience with chromatin profiling techniques is a plus Novartis Compensation and Benefit Summary The salary for this position is expected to range between $93,800-174,200 USD 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr Novartis Farmacéutica