Senior Scientist - Oncology Translation Research (OTR)
Novartis
Summary
As a Senior Scientist I/II in Oncology Pathology Biomarkers, you will independently design and deliver tissue-based biomarker studies that support oncology programs from target discovery through clinical development. Working across pathology, molecular biology, translational research, and data science, you will apply advanced tissue assays, digital pathology, and spatial technologies to translate complex data into clear, decision-enabling insights. This laboratory-based role sits within the Oncology Pathology Biomarkers team in Oncology Translational Research.
Job description
Key Responsibilities
- Independently design, execute, troubleshoot, and interpret biomarker studies addressing critical oncology project questions.
- Develop, optimise, validate, and apply immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, and in situ hybridisation assays.
- Perform quantitative whole-slide image analysis using digital pathology and artificial intelligence-enabled platforms.
- Collaborate with subject-matter experts to characterise preclinical models and answer scientific and technical questions.
- Manage external research partners and contract research organisations, including assay transfers, milestones, data exchange, and deliverables.
- Maintain high standards for data integrity, biosafety, laboratory operations, and continuous improvement.
- Communicate findings and recommendations through project discussions, scientific presentations, and study reports.
Essential Requirements
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Biological Sciences, Pathology, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, or a related discipline, with relevant laboratory experience.
- Hands-on experience with tissue-based biomarker methods such as immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, or in situ hybridisation.
- Experience optimising and troubleshooting biomarker assays and interpreting tissue-based experimental data.
- Ability to independently design and execute experiments, analyse complex datasets, and make clear recommendations.
- Working knowledge of molecular and cell biology methods such as cell culture, quantitative polymerase chain reaction, western blotting, or flow cytometry.
- Ability to manage multiple activities, prioritise deliverables, and collaborate effectively in a multidisciplinary matrix environment.
- Clear written and verbal communication skills, with basic proficiency in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and Word.
Desirable Requirements
- Experience using preclinical models and human tissue specimens in oncology translational research.
- Experience in basic pathology/tissue histology.
- Broad understanding of the drug discovery and development pipeline.
- Experience with digital pathology, whole-slide imaging, quantitative image analysis, or AI-enabled image-analysis platforms.
- Experience with spatial transcriptomics, spatial proteomics, multiplex tissue imaging, or related technologies.
- Experience transferring assays to or overseeing work performed by external partners or contract research organizations.
Requirements
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Biological Sciences, Pathology, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, or a related discipline, with relevant laboratory experience
- Hands-on experience with tissue-based biomarker methods such as immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, or in situ hybridisation
- Experience optimising and troubleshooting biomarker assays and interpreting tissue-based experimental data
- Ability to independently design and execute experiments, analyse complex datasets, and make clear recommendations
- Working knowledge of molecular and cell biology methods such as cell culture, quantitative polymerase chain reaction, western blotting, or flow cytometry
- Ability to manage multiple activities, prioritise deliverables, and collaborate effectively in a multidisciplinary matrix environment
- Clear written and verbal communication skills, with basic proficiency in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and Word
Benefits
- Performance-Based Cash Incentive
- Annual Equity Awards
- Health Benefits
- Life Insurance
- Disability Benefits
- 401(k) Matching
- Vacation
- Personal Days
- Holidays
- Other Leaves
Company overview
Novartis is a global pharmaceutical company headquartered in Basel, Switzerland, dedicated to reimagining medicine to improve and extend people's lives. As an innovative medicines company, Novartis focuses on developing high-value treatments that address society's greatest disease burdens through technology leadership in research and development. The company operates across five core therapeutic areas: cardiovascular, renal and metabolic diseases; immunology; neuroscience; oncology; and hematology. With a workforce of approximately 75,883 employees worldwide, Novartis reaches nearly 300 million patients across 118 countries. The company leverages advanced technology platforms including targeted protein degradation, cell therapy, gene therapy, radioligand therapy, and xRNA to develop breakthrough treatments. Novartis maintains a strong portfolio of oncology drugs and generics while continuously expanding its pipeline through strategic acquisitions and internal research. The company's commitment extends beyond drug development to ensuring global access to medical innovations through novel access approaches and patient assistance programs.