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 role is full‑time on‑site and requires deep expertise in assay development and high‑throughput screening, including 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 Title & Location

Internal Job Title: Senior Scientist I / Senior Scientist II

Location: Onsite, La Jolla, CA

Key Responsibilities

• Execute routine assays on a weekly basis to define 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 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.

Salary & Benefits

Salary for Senior Scientist I ranges from $93,800 to $174,200 per year; for Senior Scientist II, from $98,700 to $183,300 per year. Final salary offered is based on relevant skills and experience and is reviewed upon joining. Novartis may adjust the published range based on company and market factors.

Your compensation will include a performance‑based cash incentive and, depending on the level, eligibility for annual equity awards.

US‑based eligible employees receive a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, life, and disability benefits, a 401(k) with company match, and other benefits. Employees also enjoy 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, please visit our official recruitment portal.

Accessibility & Reasonable Accommodations

The Novartis Group of Companies is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If you need reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process or to perform essential functions of this position, please email us.reasonableaccommodations@novartis.com or call +1 (877) 395‑2339 and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Include the job requisition number in your message.

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.

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.