Internal Job Title: Research Scientist I/II

Position Location: Cambridge, MA, onsite

** This role is based in Cambridge, MA/USA. Novartis is unable to offer relocation support for this role: please only apply if this location is accessible for you.

Join a collaborative team at the forefront of cell and gene therapy research. As a Research Scientist focused on lentiviral vector purification and analytics, you will apply hands-on laboratory expertise to help develop, optimize, and characterize viral vector processes that support next-generation CAR-T programs. This role offers the opportunity to contribute directly to innovative science, work across purification and analytical workflows, and help advance high-quality research materials that enable transformative therapeutic approaches.

Key responsibilities:

• This is a lab-based position that requires hands-on execution of activities related to lentiviral vector purification including clarification, chromatography and TFF.
• Execute analytical methods (molecular- and cell-based) to assess quality of the purified vector.
• Write and review protocols, technical reports, and technology transfer documents with supported conclusions and recommendations.
• Write and review SOPs, instrument procedures, and other lab documents.
• Plan and prioritize work to meet goals while managing multiple research activities.
• Support experimental design, data analysis, and troubleshooting.
• Identify root causes, implement solutions, and verify effectiveness.
• Present scientific data and contribute openly to discussions.
• Document experimental procedures and processes thoroughly.
• Collaborate across teams, share knowledge, and train team members in technical areas as needed.

Essential Requirements:

• BS or MS in bioengineering, virology, or related field, with relevant lab experience. This is not a PhD-level position.
• 1–3 years of experience in protein and/or viral vector purification.
• Hands-on experience with chromatography and filtration techniques, including TFF and depth filtration.
• Strong coordination, communication, collaboration, learning agility, and self-motivation.
• Proficiency with Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and GraphPad Prism.
• Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills.

Desirable Requirements:

• BSL2 experience with AAV, lentiviral, or retroviral vector production.
• Proficiency in aseptic technique, cell culture, molecular biology, and analytical testing.
• Bioreactor experience.

The salary for this position is expected to range between $66,800 and $124,000 per year for Research Scientist I, and between $81,200 and $150,800 per year for Research Scientist II. 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.

Why Novartis: Helping people with disease and their families takes more than innovative science. It takes a community of smart, passionate people like you. Collaborating, supporting and inspiring each other. Combining to achieve breakthroughs that change patients’ lives. Ready to create a brighter future together? https://www.novartis.com/about/strategy/people-and-culture

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