Research Scientist II, Laboratory Automation & Drug Discovery Support

Approximately 50% of the role is dedicated to laboratory automation support and operational excellence across IMM, while approximately 50% is focused on hands-on assay development, screening, profiling, and experimental support of drug discovery projects. Act as the primary IMM contact for laboratory automation systems and liquid handling platforms. Ensure reliable operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement of laboratory automation infrastructure. Provide rapid hands-on technical support and training to automation users across IMM. Develop, optimize, validate, and execute biochemical, cellular, and biophysical assays supporting drug discovery projects. Perform compound profiling and small- to medium-throughput screening campaigns using automated platforms. Analyze and communicate experimental results to project teams and stakeholders. Support assay automation, implementation, and transfer onto automated workflows. Collaborate closely with project teams to advance hit-to-lead and lead optimization activities. Maintain high scientific and operational standards, ensuring data quality and reproducibility.

At Novartis, we’re committed to reimagining medicine together - and rewarding the people who make it happen. The rewards of being part of our team go far beyond base pay and incentives. We also offer a variety of competitive benefits in kind to help you thrive personally and professionally, such as insurance plans, retirement plans, wellbeing resources and global recognition programs. In addition, we provide flexible and hybrid working options, where possible, and a minimum of 14 weeks paid parental leave. Novartis is committed to building an outstanding, inclusive work environment and diverse teams’ representative of the patients and communities we serve. 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?

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Pharmacology, Biotechnology, or a related field.

• At least three years of experience operating and troubleshooting laboratory automation and liquid handling platforms.

• Practical experience in biochemical and/or cellular assay development and execution.

• Demonstrates a service-oriented mindset by responding constructively to urgent support requests, maintaining a positive attitude, and providing reliable assistance on automation platforms and devices.

• Provide strategic oversight of IMM laboratory automation infrastructure by anticipating future scientific requirements, maintaining state-of-the-art instrumentation and software, and developing long-term automation solutions that support departmental objectives.

• Understanding of drug discovery workflows and hit-to-lead activities.

• Strong data analysis and problem-solving skills.

• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.

• Ability to prioritize and support multiple users and projects simultaneously.