Senior Scientist, Assay Development & Screening

Job Description Summary

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Research Scientist to join our dynamic team in La Jolla, CA. The ideal candidate will work on-site full time and bring deep expertise in assay development and high-throughput screening, with experience in automated screening. If you have a passion for advancing scientific discovery and thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative and cross-disciplinary environment, we encourage you to apply.

 

Job Description

Internal Job Title: Senior Scientist I/Senior Scientist II

Position Location: onsite, La Jolla, CA  #LI-onsite

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Research Scientist to join our dynamic team in La Jolla, CA. The ideal candidate will work on-site full time and bring deep expertise in assay development and high-throughput screening, with experience in automated screening. If you have a passion for advancing scientific discovery and thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative and cross-disciplinary environment, we encourage you to apply.

Key Responsibilities:

• Execute routine assays on a weekly basis for defining structure-activity relationships.

• Design, develop, and optimize biochemical and cell-based assays tailored for screening in high-density formats.

• Implement and manage automation solutions to enhance assay throughput and data quality.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate new technologies and workflows into ongoing research projects.

• Analyze, interpret, and present scientific data to internal and external stakeholders.

• Maintain detailed laboratory records, contribute to the preparation of research reports and publications, and represent the team through internal presentations.

Essential Requirements:

• BS or MS (preferred) degree in a relevant scientific discipline (e.g., Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Oncology, Neurosciences, or a related field), with 4+ years industry experience in assay development and high-throughput screening. 

• Ability to manage multiple projects independently and adapt to evolving research priorities.

• Demonstrated proficiency in validating and troubleshooting biochemical and cell-based assays.

• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.

• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.

Desirable Requirements:

• Experience and initiative to integrate novel or emerging technologies into screening workflows.

• Familiarity with data analysis software and electronic laboratory management systems.

• Hands-on experience with laboratory automation platforms and liquid handling systems.

• Experience with biophysical assays or label-free target engagement approaches.

The salary for this position is expected to range between $93,800 and $174,200 per year for Senior Scientist I, and $98,700 and $183,300 for Senior Scientist II. The final salary offered is determined based on factors like, but not limited to, relevant skills and experience, and upon joining Novartis will be reviewed periodically. Novartis may change the published salary range based on company and market factors.

Your compensation will include a performance-based cash incentive and, depending on the level of the role, eligibility to be considered for annual equity awards.

US-based eligible employees will receive a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, life and disability benefits, a 401(k) with company contribution and match, and a variety of other benefits. In addition, employees are eligible for a generous time off package including vacation, personal days, holidays and other leaves.

To learn more about the culture, rewards and benefits we offer our people click here.

 

EEO Statement:

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. 

 

Accessibility and reasonable accommodations

The Novartis Group of Companies are committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process, or to perform the essential functions of a position, please send an e-mail to us.reasonableaccommodations@novartis.com or call +1(877)395-2339 and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Please include the job requisition number in your message.

 

Salary Range

$93,800.00 - $174,200.00

 

Skills Desired

Analytical Skill, Analytical Skill, Analytical Thinking, Chemical Biology, Chemistry, Clinical Research, Clinical Trials, Collaboration, Communication Skills, Curious Mindset, Data, Data Analysis, Design Of Experiments, Detail-Oriented, Diversity & Inclusion, Drug Discovery, Ethics, Gene Therapy, Immunology, Laboratory, Lifesciences, Machine Learning (ML), Mammalian Cell Culture, Medical Research, Molecular Biology {+ 11 more}