Your responsibilities will include:

• Lead and mentor a team of highly skilled molecular biology scientists at the Basel site, focusing on the design, screening, and characterization of RNAi-based therapies.
• Design, plan, and oversee siRNA cell-based screening activities, including assay development and optimization, with a focus on implementation of high throughput automation.
• Perform end-to-end RNA-Seq NGS experiments to assess off-target risks, including library preparation, sequencing, and data analysis.
• Expand research space for off-target assessment to advance safe siRNA therapeutics to clinic
• Define mid- and long-term goals, establish action plans, and implement strategies for the local xRNA team in alignment with the global xRNA and Biologics Research Center strategy.
• Co-lead RNAi drug discovery and development programs in collaboration with Global Discovery Chemistry and Disease Areas (DA) teams.
• Partner with downstream development colleagues to progress RNA lead candidates toward full development.
• Coordinate and align activities with other Global Biologics Research Center teams and functional groups .
• Collaborate with DA partners to identify unmet medical needs and enable the development of novel therapeutic solutions.
• Represent the xRNA team on cross-functional project teams, driving the advancement of siRNA programs through the development pipeline.
• Provide innovative solutions to scientific challenges and lead troubleshooting efforts.
• Provide supervision in the laboratory setting and talent development opportunities

Minimum requirements: What you will bring to the role

• Ph.D. in a relevant scientific discipline, including genomics, molecular biology & biochemistry with a minimum of 5 years of experience in RNAi/oligonucleotide drug discovery, recognized as an expert in the field both internally and externally.
• Proven experience in RNAi drug discovery, including RNAi design, screening, and characterization.
• Comprehensive knowledge of RNAi chemistry and biology, with a focus on lead optimization of therapeutic candidates.
• Strong genomics expertise, including hands-on experience with RNA-Seq experiments, from library preparation to data processing and analysis.
• A demonstrated track record of success, as evidenced by high-quality publications and patents.
• Highly collaborative mindset, combined with strong communication skills, creativity, and the ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Experience with extrahepatic targeting of RNAi is preferred.
• Expertise in lab automation is highly desirable.
• If you are passionate about leading cutting-edge research, thrive in a collaborative and innovative environment, and are eager to make an impact in delivering RNAi-based therapies to patients, we encourage you to apply.

*Restrictions on flexible working and reduced working time may apply and can be discussed at interview stage if required

Accessibility and accommodation:
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 inclusion.switzerland@novartis.com and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Please include the job requisition number in your message.

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