Senior Scientist I, Lentiviral Vector Purification and Analytics

Novartis; Cambridge (MA); On-site; USD 94,000 - 174,000; Full time

Job summary

Novartis in Cambridge, MA seeks a Research Scientist focused on lentiviral vector purification and analytics to advance CAR-T programs. This hands-on role requires expertise in purification, analytics, and protocol development, with opportunities to contribute to innovative cell and gene therapy research.

The position emphasizes cross-functional collaboration, meticulous documentation, and training team members. Onsite work in Cambridge, MA, with competitive compensation and benefits.

Qualifications

• BSL2 experience with AAV, lentiviral, or retroviral vectors.
• Hands-on experience with chromatography and AKTA systems.
• Proficiency in aseptic technique and cell culture.
• Experience operating different scales of bioreactors for viral vector production.

Responsibilities

• Conduce lentiviral vector purification including clarification, chromatography and TFF.
• Perform analytical methods to assess vector quality.
• Write/review protocols, reports, and tech transfer docs.
• Plan, prioritize and manage multiple research activities.
• Collaborate across teams and train others in technical areas.

Skills

Viral vector purification

Cell culture

Molecular biology

Analytical testing

Communication

Education

BS or MS in bioengineering, virology, or related field

Tools

AKTA chromatography

Job description

Job Description Summary The Lentiviral Vector (LVV) Team in the Biologics Research Center (BRC) at Novartis, Cambridge, MA is seeking a highly motivated Scientist with experience in production and purification of viral vectors to join our team. In this role, you will play a key part in advancing our Cell and Gene Therapy research initiatives and contributing to groundbreaking research in CAR-T cell therapy.

Internal Job Title: Senior Scientist I Position Location: Cambridge, MA/USA, 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.
• Six years (with BS) or four years (with MS) of postgraduate experience in viral vector purification.
• BSL2 experience with AAV, lentiviral, or retroviral vector production.
• Proficiency in aseptic technique, cell culture, molecular biology, and analytical testing.
• Expertise in operating different scales of bioreactors for viral vector production.
• Hands-on experience with chromatography and familiar with AKTA operation.
• Familiar with various downstream process techniques, including but not limited to depth filtration, ultrafiltration, diafiltration, tangential flow filtration, etc.
• 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

• Hands-on experience with Ambr bioreactors.

Compensation and Benefits

The salary for this position is expected to range between $93,800 and $174,200 USD annually. 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.

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 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 to perform the essential functions of a position, please send an e-mail to [e-mail] 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.

Salary Range

$93,800.00 - $174,200.00

Skills Desired

• Analytical Thinking
• Analytical Thinking
• Chemical Biology
• Chemistry
• Clinical Research
• Clinical Trials
• Collaboration
• Communication
• Curious Mindset
• Data Analysis
• Data Management
• Design of Experiments (DOE)
• Detail-Oriented
• Diversity and Inclusion (D&I)
• Drug Discovery Process
• Ethics
• Gene Therapy
• Immunology
• Laboratory Research
• Leading Project Teams
• Life Science
• Machine Learning (ML)
• Mammalian Cell Culture
• Medical Research
• Molecular Biology {+ 10 more}