Principal Scientist I - Molecular Histology Scientist

Novartis; Cambridge (MA); On-site; USD 114,000 - 212,000; Full time

Job summary

Novartis in Cambridge, MA seeks a Principal Scientist I to lead tissue-based assay development within Preclinical Safety. You will drive IHC/ISH method development, validate assays, and oversee automated staining platforms and digital pathology workflows, partnering with pathologists and project teams.

The role requires 8+ years of hands-on molecular localization experience, strong data integrity, and independent laboratory leadership in a multidisciplinary setting.

Qualifications

• Bachelors or Master’s Degree in Biological Sciences or related field with 8+ years of lab experience.
• Extensive hands-on experience with molecular localization techniques (IHC, multiplex IHC, ISH/RNAscope).
• Proven expertise in development, optimization, validation, and troubleshooting of tissue-based assays.
• Experience with automated staining platforms and digital pathology workflows.

Responsibilities

• Develop, optimize, validate, and implement tissue-based assays including IHC and ISH.
• Evaluate antibodies, probes, and controls to generate robust data.
• Operate and optimize automated staining platforms (Ventana ULTRA, Leica BOND).
• Use digital pathology workflows and image analysis tools for data; maintain accurate records.
• Prepare study summaries and reports for project teams.

Skills

IHC

Multiplex IHC

ISH/RNAscope

Automated staining

Digital pathology

Image analysis

Data management

Lab leadership

Education

BS/MS in Biological Sciences / related field

Tools

Ventana ULTRA

Leica BOND

LIMS

eLN

Job description

Band

Level 4

Job Description Summary

#LI-Onsite
Internal Title: Principal Scientist I
Location: Cambridge, MA

We are seeking a highly motivated and scientifically driven Principal Scientist I to join the Molecular Histology Laboratory within Preclinical Safety and Investigative Pathology. This position will serve as a technical subject matter expert responsible for developing, optimizing, and implementing advanced tissue-based assays that support preclinical toxicology, investigative pathology, translational research, and drug development programs.
The successful candidate will possess deep expertise in molecular localization technologies, digital pathology, and tissue-based biomarker assessment. This individual will provide hands-on laboratory leadership in assay development and execution while collaborating closely with pathologists, laboratory scientists, and multidisciplinary project teams.
This role requires extensive experience with immunohistochemistry (IHC), multiplex IHC, in situ hybridization (ISH/RNAscope), automated staining platforms, digital pathology workflows, and image analysis technologies.

Job Description

Key Responsibilities

Molecular Localization and Assay Development

• Develop, optimize, validate, and implement tissue-based assays, including immunohistochemistry (IHC), multiplex immunofluorescence, and in situ hybridization (ISH/RNAscope).
• Serve as a molecular histology subject matter expert by evaluating antibodies, probes, controls, and assay strategies to generate robust, reproducible, and scientifically meaningful data.
• Operate, maintain, and optimize automated staining platforms, including Ventana ULTRA and Leica BOND systems, while developing automated workflows for IHC and ISH assays.
• Troubleshoot complex technical challenges and establish best practices for assay performance and quality control.
• Establish standardized protocols, acceptance criteria, troubleshooting guides, and assay performance metrics.
• Utilize digital pathology workflows, including whole-slide imaging, image analysis, and data management using LIMS and electronic laboratory notebook (eLN) platforms.
• Maintain accurate, contemporaneous, and traceable experimental records in approved electronic systems.
• Partner with pathologists and multidisciplinary project teams to support objectives with clear communication. Prepare clear study summaries, technical reports, presentations, and recommendations for project teams.
• Contribute to continuous improvement and implementation of emerging technologies that enhance laboratory capabilities and scientific impact.
• Ensure compliance with laboratory safety, quality, documentation, and data integrity standards while maintaining sample traceability and study records.

Essential Requirements

• Bachelors or Master’s Degree required in Biological Sciences, Pathology, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Immunology, or related scientific discipline with 8+ years directly relevant laboratory experience.
• Extensive hands-on experience with molecular localization techniques including:
• Immunohistochemistry (IHC)
• Multiplex IHC/Immunofluorescence
• In Situ Hybridization (ISH)
• RNAscope and related RNA detection technologies
• Proven expertise in development, optimization, validation, and troubleshooting of tissue-based assays.
• Strong experience with automated staining platforms including Ventana ULTRA and/or Leica BOND systems.
• Working knowledge of histology workflows, tissue processing, fixation methods, and sample preparation techniques.
• Experience with whole-slide imaging systems, digital pathology platforms, and image analysis tools.
• Excellent attention to detail and commitment to data quality and scientific rigor.
• Strong written, verbal, and presentation communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently while contributing effectively within multidisciplinary teams.

Desirable Requirements

• Experience supporting drug discovery, translational medicine, investigative pathology, or preclinical safety programs.
• Experience working with rodent, non-human primate, and human tissues.
• Experience with multiplex spatial biology technologies, spatial transcriptomics, or advanced tissue imaging approaches.
• Experience with digital pathology image analysis software and quantitative image analysis workflows.
• Demonstrated record of scientific publications, presentations, or technical contributions.

The salary for this position is expected to range between: $114,100-$211,900/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, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status. We strive to create an inclusive workplace that cultivates bold innovation through collaboration and empowers our people to unleash their full potential.

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 in order to perform the essential functions of a position, please send an email to [e-mail] call [phone] 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 Thinking, Bioinformatics, Clinical Data Management, Collaboration, Communication, Critical Thinking, Data Analysis, Detail-Oriented, Ethics, Laboratory Research, Life Science, Management Techniques, Medical Research, Organizing, Problem Solving, Regulatory Compliance, Report Writing, Team Management, Technical Knowledge, Time Management, Toxicology, Training and Development, Waterfall Model