Principal Scientist - Mid​/Scale Oligonucleotide Synthesis, xRNA Therapeutics

Job Description Summary

Location:

Basel, Switzerland #onsite

Role

Purpose:

Novartis xRNA Therapeutics is seeking a passionate and experienced PhD-level scientist to lead mid/large scale oligonucleotides synthesis and manage a team in Basel to support our xRNA Therapeutics development. This role requires extensive collaboration within a multidisciplinary environment, bridging research and development to enable the discovery and advancement of innovative siRNA therapies that address significant unmet medical needs.

• Plan and execute medium- and large-scale solid-phase synthesis, purification, and analysis of chemically modified oligonucleotides and conjugates.

• Oversee a state-of-the-art oligonucleotide synthesis facility, including efficient management of capital and consumables budgets.

• Lead and mentor a team of scientists specializing in oligonucleotide synthesis, purification, analysis, and downstream processing at the millimole scale to support our growing siRNA portfolio.

• Ensure timely delivery of high-quality siRNA materials for in vitro screening and in vivo studies within drug candidate pipelines.

• Collaborate with discovery xRNA oligonucleotide synthesis teams in Basel and Cambridge.

• Provide technical leadership to the scale-up team, optimizing methodologies and processes for enhanced oligonucleotide synthesis efficiency.

• Partner with synthetic chemists and project teams to scale up new siRNA chemistries that address key scientific challenges and enable seamless progression into development.

• Document and clearly communicate scientific findings and insights to internal and external stakeholders through patent applications and scientific publications.

• Mentor, train, and support team members by sharing technical expertise and hands‑on experience.

• Demonstrate strong problem‑solving skills and a solution‑oriented mindset.

• Ph.D. in Chemistry with a focus on oligonucleotide synthesis, plus 2–3 years of industry experience.

• Proven track record in mid/large‑scale oligonucleotide solid‑phase synthesis using automated synthesizers, and downstream processing including expertise in process development.

• Demonstrated leadership capabilities and experience developing scientific teams.

• Ability to promote and implement innovative ideas within a global team environment.

• Strong independent problem‑solving skills.

• Highly collaborative mindset.

• Ability to manage multiple priorities effectively while maintaining focus on key objectives.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Novartis is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to all individuals. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the recruitment process, or in order to receive more detailed information about the essential functions of a position, please send an e‑mail to inclu and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information.

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