Principal Scientist I / II – Translational Immuno‑Oncology Research (OTR)

Job Description Summary

This is an exciting opportunity to join the Oncology Translational Research (OTR) department at Novartis Biomedical Research in Cambridge, MA. OTR is a global, laboratory-based research organization supporting the Oncology Disease Area from early target identification through proof-of-concept clinical trials and late-stage development. OTR plays a critical role in understanding target biology and epidemiology, therapeutic mechanisms of action, response and resistance mechanisms, biomarker strategy, indication selection, and rational combination opportunities across multiple therapeutic modalities.

We are seeking a highly motivated and innovative Principal Scientist (I or II) to provide translational leadership in support of Novartis’ oncology portfolio, including cell and gene therapies (e.g., CAR-T), biologics, antibody-drug conjugates, immune cell engagers, and targeted therapies.

 

Job Description

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the translational research lead for oncology programs. Lead the design and development of translational research strategy on clinical trials utilizing pharmacodynamic and target engagement assays to elucidate drug mechanisms of action, response and resistance.
• Conduct laboratory experiments and analyze data to support translational research, utilizing a range of in vitro oncology and cancer immunology models and assays with emphasis on patient-derived material to derive clinically translatable insights.
• Coordinate with project teams and contract laboratories on the planning, execution, and monitoring of molecular and cellular studies.
• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and external partners (CROs, academic institutions) to deliver high-quality biomarker data for clinical trials.
• Contribute to translational strategies, sample collection protocols, and documentation for early-phase studies.
• Communicate experimental findings and provide scientific insights to project teams and stakeholders.
• Offer proactive guidance on integrating biomarkers into clinical designs to facilitate early assessment of emerging drug profiles, including input regarding tumor types and their potential impact on internal decision-making.
• Oversee the advancement of validated biomarkers towards diagnostic assay development, as required.
• Participate in strategic review processes and contribute to presentations, publications, and internal/external communications in coordination with program leadership and governance forums.
• Develop solutions and recommendations for senior management, including identification and mitigation of risks.
• Share expertise, experience, lessons learned, and knowledge with translational and other scientific colleagues throughout the organization.

Essential Requirements

• This is a dual posting. The final level of the offered role will be determined by the hiring team based on the skills, experience, and capabilities required to perform the role at the offered level.
  • Principal Scientist I: 3+ year of postdoctoral training
  • Principal Scientist II: Completed post-doctoral training plus 3+ years of industry experience
• PhD in oncology, immunology, cell biology, biochemistry, molecular biology or a related discipline
• Strong scientific acumen and in-depth mechanistic understanding of cancer biology and the tumor immune microenvironment. Strong quantitative skills and advanced hands-on experience with multiparameter/spectral flow cytometry, including panel design, sample preparation, acquisition, and analysis of large complex data sets.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate productively with internal stakeholders and/or external partners (including CROs and specialty laboratories).
• Exceptional communication, organizational, and teamwork skills, with a proactive and collaborative approach.
• Committed to continuous learning, professional growth, and accepting increased responsibility in a dynamic environment.

Desirable Qualifications

• Familiarity with designing, executing, and analyzing translational biomarker assays and data using various technologies (e.g., genomics, immunohistochemistry, flow cytometry, immunoassays) and sample types within clinical studies.
• Well-versed in the drug development process and experienced in collaborating with clinical teams.
• Demonstrated experience in T/B cell, myeloid biology, including primary cell culture and immune cell assays with complex co-cultures with patient-derived material.
• Proficiency in IncuCyte-based assays or comparable real-time cytotoxicity platforms.

Novartis Compensation and Benefit Summary: 

The salary for this position is expected to range between $114,100.00 - 211,900.00 USD Annual 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 us.reasonableaccommodations@novartis.com or call +1(877)395-2339 and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Please include the job requisition number in your message.

 

Salary Range

$114,100.00 - $211,900.00

 

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}