Senior Scientist - Biomarker Development, Translational Medicine

The role of Senior Scientist - Biomarker Development, Translational Medicine is a temporary contractor position at Novartis, a company dedicated to improving and extending people's lives through innovative medicine. The company aims to reimagine medicine and make a significant impact on human life. This role is part of the Molecular & Cellular Sciences (MCS) team, focusing on developing and implementing biomarker strategies across the clinical pipeline. The main day-to-day responsibilities involve hands-on development and validation of soluble biomarker assays, with a focus on technologies like ELISA, MSD, NULISA, and Ella, as well as LC-MS. The scientist will collaborate with global experts, ensure the quality and timely delivery of data, and serve as the scientific and technical lead for exploratory soluble biomarker assays. This includes generating and interpreting biomarker assay data, presenting results at internal meetings, and maintaining high standards for scientific rigor, documentation, and compliance. To qualify for this role, candidates must have a BS/MS degree in Biology, Immunology, Cell Biology, or a related field, with at least 5 years of experience as a laboratory technician in the pharmaceutical or biotechnology environment. Extensive knowledge and practical experience in ligand binding assays are essential. Good computer skills, including proficiency in Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Soft MaxPro, SMART Book, GraphPad Prism, and Watson LIMS, are required. Strong analytical thinking, accountability, and collaborative teamwork are also necessary. Additionally, candidates must have a good understanding of regulatory requirements relevant to Biomarker Development, such as GCLP and ICH. The ability to work in a global organization and matrix-resourcing model is a plus. Nice-to-have skills include a strong track record in providing scientific contributions in biomarkers, translational science, or analytical technologies, as well as an established external scientific reputation through conferences, collaborations, publications, or consortia. The position is based in Switzerland and requires an EU/EFTA or Swiss Passport, or a non-EU/EFTA national with an unrestricted Swiss Residence & Work Permit or family reunification "B permit". The role is onsite, with a 100% workload (40 hours per week) and a contract duration of 6 months, starting in October/November 2026. What the role asks for: - BS/MS degree in Biology, Immunology, Cell Biology or equivalent field. - 5+ years of experience as a laboratory technician in the pharmaceutical or biotechnology environment. - Extensive understanding, knowledge and practical experience in ligand binding assays. - Good computer skills (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Soft MaxPro, SMART Book, GraphPad Prism, Watson LIMS). - Good written and oral communication skills. - Understanding of regulatory requirement relevant to Biomarker Development (e.g. GCLP, ICH). - EU/EFTA or Swiss Passport, or a non-EU/EFTA national with an unrestricted Swiss Residence & Work Permit or family reunification "B permit" (nice-to-have).