Research Scientist - Immunogenicity & Mechanistic Immunology (80-100%*)

The Immunogenicity and Mechanistic Immunology team within the Biologics Research Center (BRC) in Basel is dedicated to exploring and leveraging molecular and immunological mechanisms to advance the discovery, characterization, and optimization of biotherapeutics and innovative therapeutic modalities targeting oncology and autoimmune diseases.

We are looking for a highly driven and collaborative scientist to join our immunology group and contribute to immune profiling, translational research, and mechanistic studies aimed at characterizing biotherapeutics and emerging modalities (e.g., T-cell engagers).

This role offers an opportunity to work in a highly collaborative and dynamic environment, supporting groundbreaking research that drives the development of novel biotherapeutics. We are ideally seeking a Research Scientist level candidate for this position, however applicants at a Senior Scientist level may be considered (please note we are not seeking a PhD level candidate for this role).

Key responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Plan, conduct, and independently perform immunological, cellular, and biochemical assays to assess the functionality and characterization of biotherapeutics.
• Develop novel assays or analytic tools tailored to diverse project needs across therapeutic areas
• Perform complex assays involving human primary immune cells (e.g., T cells, B cells, myeloid cells) and carry out multicolor flow cytometry (FACS) and functional immunological testing.
• Formulate hypotheses, design experiments, critically analyze results, and prioritize follow-up studies based on experimental findings.
• Work closely with colleagues within the Immunogenicity and Mechanistic Immunology teams as well as cross-functional partners across the BRC and other departments, including Oncology and Immunology.
• Communicate Findings by presenting results regularly to the lab head and project teams and contribute to the creation of protocols and detailed reports.
• Oversee laboratory maintenance, including managing technical equipment, reagents, and consumables.
• Keep informed about relevant scientific and technical advancements through ongoing review of literature.

Essential Requirements:

• BS/MSc in Life Sciences, preferably immunology or cell biology, with a background in human immunology from academic or industry settings.
• Extensive expertise and in-depth knowledge of multicolor flow cytometry; experience with cell sorting is considered an advantage
• Experience working in a biosafety level 2 (BL2) environment, including isolating and handling primary immune cells, phenotyping, and conducting functional immunological assays.
• Strong knowledge and passion for human immunology and cell biology.
• Scientific curiosity, initiative, and adaptability, with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a dynamic matrix environment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, alongside strong organizational and planning capabilities.
• Fluency in English.

Desirable Requirements:

• Familiarity with sample management governance.
• Proven ability to develop new assays and techniques, with a strong aptitude for learning and integrating innovative methods.

*Restrictions on working flexibility may apply to this position and can be discussed at interview as 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 [email protected] 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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