Senior Scientist I (Liquid Handling Team)

Summary

Role Purpose: The Compound Management & Engineering (CME) unit is responsible for maintaining, expanding, and distributing the compound collection used in global drug discovery projects. To support rapid and reliable delivery of thousands of stock solutions across the research community, CME relies on complex robotic systems.

We are currently seeking a detail‑oriented and highly motivated Senior Scientist to join our High Throughput Liquid Handling Team. This role will oversee the daily operations of our automated liquid handling platforms and contribute to the continuous improvement of our compound management capabilities.

About the Role

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage high‑throughput plating requests and ensure the production of high‑quality MedChem compound plates.
• Perform daily maintenance and troubleshooting of diverse robotic systems and storage stores.
• Proactively identify and implement improvements to enhance system performance and reliability.
• Develop and maintain SOPs related to quality control.
• Coordinate planning and timelines with internal stakeholders.
• Present compound management activities and study results in cross‑functional meetings.

Required Skills and Experience:

• Proven experience in compound management within the pharmaceutical or CRO environment.
• Strong interest in liquid handling procedures and robotics with multi‑year experience with different vendors of liquid handling equipment (e.g.: Hamilton, Tecan, Cybio…).
• High attention to detail and commitment to operational excellence.
• Strong organizational and time‑management skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within multidisciplinary global teams.
• Flexibility and responsiveness to shifting priorities.

Qualifications:

• MSc in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Engineering, or related scientific discipline.
• Industry experience in a laboratory setting, preferably within a Compound Management Unit.
• Hands‑on experience with liquid handling systems and software (Venus, EvoWare, Momentum, Cellario…).
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.

Language: English (Proficiency in German and/or French is considered a strong asset)

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.

Why Novartis: 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? https://www.novartis.com/about/strategy/people-and-culture

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