Research Scientist II – Analytical Genomics Laboratory

Novartis; Cambridge (MA); On-site; USD 81,000 - 151,000; Full time

Job summary

Novartis Cambridge lab seeks a motivated BSc/MSc-level scientist to join the Analytical Genomics group. You will execute experiments, support sample preparation, library construction, and sequencing workflows, and contribute to assay setup under guidance to enable high-quality data generation across local and remote teams.

The role emphasizes documentation, quality control, and collaboration with molecular biologists and data scientists, with opportunities to grow in single-cell and spatial

Qualifications

• MS (or BS with additional 2 years of experience) in Molecular Biology, Genomics, Biochemistry, or related field.
• 1–2 years hands-on experience with spatial transcriptomics and/or single-cell sequencing technologies.
• Good understanding of molecular biology techniques, including PCR, qRT-PCR, enzymatic reactions, DNA & RNA purification and manipulation.
• Experience with protocol troubleshooting and optimization with guidance for complex genomics assays.
• Knowledge of NGS library preparation and sequencing workflows.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute experiments using established single-cell and spatial profiling workflows.
• Prepare samples, construct libraries, and follow sequencing-related SOPs and study plans.
• Provide input on workflow feasibility, timing, and run setup under guidance.
• Troubleshoot and implement protocol adjustments; escalate issues as needed.
• Document procedures to ensure reproducibility and quality.

Skills

Spatial transcriptomics

Single-cell sequencing

Molecular biology techniques

PCR / qRT-PCR

NGS library prep

Education

MS in Molecular Biology

BS with 2+ years experience

Job description

Summary

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented BSc/MSc-level scientist to join our Analytical Genomics laboratory, which supports NGS, spatial transcriptomics, and single-cell genomics workflows. The successful candidate will execute experiments using established protocols and instrumentation, support sample preparation, library construction, sequencing workflows, documentation, and quality control, and contribute practical input during assay setup and troubleshooting under guidance. This role is important for enabling high-quality data generation and supporting research projects across local and remote teams.

About The Role

Internal Job Title: Research Scientist II

Position Location: Cambridge, MA, onsite

• Novartis is unable to offer relocation support for this role: please only apply if this location is accessible for you.

About Our Laboratory

Our lab is dedicated to advancing drug discovery at Novartis Biomedical Research with cutting-edge sequencing and genomics technologies. We strive to deliver impactful scientific discoveries, foster a collaborative work environment, and, importantly, love what we do.

Key Responsibilities

Experimental Design and Execution:

• Perform experiments using established single-cell and spatial profiling workflows.
• Execute sample preparation, library construction, and sequencing-related protocols according to SOPs and agreed study plans.
• Provide practical input on sample requirements, workflow feasibility, timing, and run setup under guidance.
• Support troubleshooting and implementation of approved protocol adjustments, while escalating technical issues as appropriate.
• Ensure accurate documentation and reproducibility of laboratory procedures.

Instrument Operation And Maintenance

• Operate and maintain relevant instruments, including routine care and basic troubleshooting.
• Support training of other staff on instrument use and protocol adherence.

Data Analysis And Interpretation

• Perform basic initial data processing for spatial and single-cell genomics datasets using appropriate bioinformatics tools.
• Collaborate with data scientists to review results and contribute to reports and internal presentations.

Collaboration And Communication

• Work closely with local and remote cross-functional teams at Novartis Biomedical Research, including molecular biologists, bioinformaticians, and project leads.
• Communicate experimental status, technical observations, and potential workflow issues in a timely manner.
• Contribute to documentation and reporting of experimental workflows.

Quality Control And Compliance

• Document work accurately and monitor quality control measures to ensure data integrity and compliance with laboratory standards.
• Stay current with advances in single-cell and spatial genomics technologies and support the integration of best practices into lab workflows.

Essential Requirements

• MS (or BS with additional 2 years of experience) in Molecular Biology, Genomics, Biochemistry, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• 1-2 years of hands-on experience with spatial transcriptomics and/or single-cell sequencing technologies.
• Good understanding of molecular biology techniques, including PCR, qRT-PCR, enzymatic reactions, DNA & RNA purification and manipulation.
• Experience with protocol troubleshooting and optimization with guidance for complex genomics assays.
• Knowledge of NGS library preparation and sequencing workflows.

Desirable Requirements

• Experience with tissue processing, imaging, IHC, and microscopy.

The salary for this position is expected to range between $81,200 and $150,800 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.

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

Benefits and Rewards:

Learn about all the ways we’ll help you thrive personally and professionally.

Read our handbook (PDF 30 MB)

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 & 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 [email protected] or call [phone] and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Please include the job requisition number in your message.