Research Scientist I, Pre-Formulation Chemistry

Internal Position Title: Research Scientist I

Position Location:  San Diego, CA onsite   #LI-Onsite

*This role is based in San Diego, CA. Novartis is unable to offer relocation support for this role: please only apply if this location is accessible for you.

Job Description Summary:

Novartis is seeking a highly motivated individual to join the Global Discovery Chemistry group and contribute to the development of discovery compounds. This successful candidate will join an energizing and collaborative research environment working in conjunction with cross functional drug discovery teams in providing formulation support for new chemical entities. The ideal candidate will be capable of working independently to execute pre-formulation activities for oligonucleotide drug candidates. As such, strong competency in physical pharmacy and preclinical formulation development is required to efficiently function in this role. The candidate must demonstrate and foster strong team spirit and promote knowledge exchange within and between team, with other departments and functions and 3rd parties, as appropriate.

Your responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Design and develop stage appropriate, fit-for-purpose preclinical formulations for oligonucleotides for delivery via parenteral routes
• Basic drug substance characterization by techniques such as XRPD, DSC and TGA, DVS, PLM, DLS, UPLC and MS
• Assessment of chemical and physical properties such as solubility, particle size and stability
• Characterization of prototype formulations using in vitro tests such as viscosity, aggregation and stability
• Preparation of formulations for use in preclinical in vivo studies and authoring protocols describing preparation of formulations for use at internal and external formulation labs
• Routine lab support such as buffer and mobile phase preparation, pH meter calibration, and basic troubleshooting of lab equipment
• Shipping and receiving of samples between other Novartis and external sites

What you’ll bring to the role:

• BS in Chemistry or a related discipline, and 1-2 years of directly related industry experience. This is not a PhD-level position.
• Practical experience in developing and preparing preclinical formulations for oligonucleotides, including RNAs and ASO
• Basic knowledge of physicochemical properties and their relationship to formulation development
• Hands on experience with a range of analytical methods used to assess the properties of oligonucleotide formulations
• The ability to manage multiple parallel activities and deliver results to agreed timelines
• Ability to work independently and with good English communication skills

The salary for this position is expected to range between $66,800 and $124,000 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.