At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team in developing innovative biomarker assays for drug discovery and clinical development.
- Company: Join Novartis, a leader in transforming medicine through science and collaboration.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, flexible working options, and comprehensive wellbeing resources.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse, inclusive community dedicated to scientific excellence.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on patient lives by advancing biomarker science.
- Qualifications: PhD or MD in life sciences with extensive biomarker assay development experience.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 283400 £ per year.
Imagine advancing biomarker science that helps transform promising discoveries into life-changing medicines. As a Sr Principal Scientist / Associate Director, Biomarker Assay Development Laboratory, you will lead a high-performing team at the forefront of translational research, developing innovative biomarker assays that shape critical decisions across drug discovery and clinical development. Working across a diverse portfolio spanning renal, liver, fibrosis, and emerging disease areas, you will collaborate with leading scientists and cross-functional partners to accelerate patient-focused breakthroughs. This is an exciting opportunity to combine scientific leadership, strategic thinking, and innovation to make a meaningful impact on the future of medicine.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead development and qualification of biomarker assays supporting discovery, translational research, and clinical development.
- Design fit-for-purpose assay strategies enabling target engagement, pharmacodynamics, and patient stratification decisions.
- Drive laboratory operations, resource planning, and prioritization to support portfolio objectives effectively.
- Build, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of innovative biomarker scientists.
- Foster a culture of scientific excellence, accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
- Partner with Translational Medicine, Data Science, and cross-functional project teams on biomarker strategies.
- Establish and manage external collaborations to access emerging technologies and specialized scientific capabilities.
- Oversee outsourced assay activities and ensure delivery of high-quality translational data.
- Provide scientific leadership that informs translational plans and clinical development strategies.
- Represent the laboratory in cross-functional forums and contribute to strategic program decisions.
Essential Requirements
- Doctor of Philosophy, Medical Doctor, or equivalent degree in a relevant life sciences discipline.
- Extensive experience developing biomarker assays within pharmaceutical or biotechnology environments.
- Deep expertise across cellular, circulating, proteomic, genetic, and genomic biomarker approaches.
- Proven success designing, qualifying, and implementing assays for preclinical and clinical studies.
- Strong experience with platforms such as polymerase chain reaction, next-generation sequencing, immunoassays, and mass spectrometry.
- Demonstrated ability to lead, develop, and inspire teams within complex matrix organizations.
- Experience managing external partners and contract research organizations to deliver scientific outcomes.
- Excellent collaboration, scientific communication, and stakeholder engagement skills.
Desirable Requirements
- Experience applying multiomics profiling and patient stratification approaches within translational research programs.
- Strong strategic mindset with a track record of innovation and advancing scientific impact.
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.
Salary Range: $152,600.00 - $283,400.00
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.
Sr Principal Scientist / Associate Director, Biomarker Assay Development Laboratory in Cambridge employer: Novartis
At Novartis, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture. Our hybrid work model allows for flexibility while providing ample opportunities for professional growth and development in the pharmaceutical industry. With a commitment to enhancing customer experiences for healthcare professionals and patients alike, joining our team means contributing to meaningful work that makes a difference in people's lives.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sr Principal Scientist / Associate Director, Biomarker Assay Development Laboratory in Cambridge
✨Get Involved in Local Research Communities
Tap into local biotechnology meetups and research forums. These are great places to mingle with industry professionals, share your passion, and even discover unadvertised job openings. It's all about getting your face known in the field!
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If you're a recent grad, don’t underestimate the power of your university’s alumni network! Reach out to alumni working in biotechnology to gather tips about job openings at companies like Novartis. You'd be surprised how willing people are to help out a fellow grad!
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Curate a portfolio showcasing any research projects or internships you've completed in biotechnology. This tangible evidence of your skills can really impress employers when you chat with them at networking events or interviews. It's about making that killer first impression!
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We think you need these skills to ace Sr Principal Scientist / Associate Director, Biomarker Assay Development Laboratory in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Lab Skills:In the biotechnology field, it's super important to highlight your lab experience in your CV. Be sure to mention specific techniques or instruments you've mastered (think PCR, gel electrophoresis, etc.) and any relevant projects you've worked on. This will show Novartis that you have the hands-on skills they need.
Tailor Your Technical Skills:Make sure to emphasise your technical skills, especially those relevant to the biotechnology sector. Include any software tools or programming languages you've used, like R or Python for data analysis, which could be key for this role at Novartis.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time role, your cover letter should reflect not only your passion for biotechnology but also your long-term career ambitions. Share why you're excited about the work that Novartis does and how you envision contributing to their goals. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but you're genuinely invested in this opportunity.
Include Your Papers and Projects:If you've published any papers or contributed to significant projects, mention them! These documents can boost your application and provide tangible evidence of your expertise in the biotechnology field. Don’t forget to link to any relevant publications or project summaries—this can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Novartis
✨Brush Up on Lab Techniques
Since you're eyeing a full-time gig in biotechnology, make sure you're well-versed in the lab techniques relevant to the role. Be ready to talk about PCR, CRISPR, or any specific methods mentioned in the job description at Novartis. You might even be asked to demonstrate your understanding of these processes.
✨Know Your Bioinformatics Tools
Get comfortable with bioinformatics tools that are commonly used in the industry, like BLAST or Bioconductor. These are key in biotechnology, and having hands-on experience or at least familiarity can set you apart. Prepare to discuss any relevant projects you've worked on, especially if they involved data analysis or genomic research.
✨Show Your Teamwork Skills
Biotech often involves collaboration across multiple disciplines. Be ready to share stories that highlight your teamwork and communication skills, especially in research projects. Think about working with different teams at university or any internships – this is where you can show how well you fit into Novartis's culture.
✨Research Recent Biotech Innovations
Stay updated on the latest trends and breakthroughs in biotechnology. Knowing what's happening in the field can help you engage in more meaningful discussions during your interview. Bring up recent articles or advancements that excite you, especially those related to the work being done at Novartis. This shows your passion for the industry!
