Research Scientist II

Novartis in Basel is expanding its research portfolio with cutting‑edge single‑cell and spatial omics approaches. As a Research Scientist II you will join a multidisciplinary team that bridges experimental biology, data science and translational research to accelerate therapeutic discovery. The position is onsite in Basel, Switzerland, and does not include relocation assistance, so candidates must already have access to the location. In this role you will design, evaluate and roll out innovative next‑generation sequencing (NGS) methods, concentrating on single‑cell RNA‑seq and spatial multimodal applications. You will run experiments independently, process and analyse the resulting data, and produce FAIR‑compliant reports. Close collaboration with wet‑lab colleagues and bioinformatics specialists is essential to interpret complex datasets and turn them into actionable insights for project teams. You will also share protocols and findings with internal stakeholders through presentations and written documentation. The ideal candidate holds a Master's degree in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Life Sciences or a closely related discipline and brings 1–2 years of industry experience in genomics, in‑situ hybridisation, imaging or spatial techniques. Proven hands‑on expertise with advanced molecular technologies, especially NGS workflows, is required, together with strong competence in nucleic‑acid extraction, PCR/qPCR and library preparation. Experience handling difficult clinical material such as FFPE tissue, primary tumour cells or low‑input samples is mandatory. You should be enthusiastic about developing and refining experimental methods, capable of conducting experiments autonomously, evaluating results critically and communicating them clearly. Effective collaboration across matrixed teams is a key expectation. While not compulsory, the team values excellent English communication, a proactive attitude toward building a professional network and the ability to thrive in a dynamic, inclusive environment that grants full accountability for individual contributions. Prior work with single‑cell and spatial transcriptomics platforms is considered a plus. The position offers a competitive salary range of CHF 65,870 – 122,330, performance‑based bonuses, flexible and hybrid working options where feasible, at least 14 weeks of paid parental leave, and a comprehensive benefits package that includes insurance, retirement plans, wellbeing resources and global recognition programmes. What the role asks for: - Master's degree in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology or related field - 1–2 years industry experience in genomics and spatial techniques - Proven experience with advanced molecular technologies, especially NGS workflows - Strong skills in nucleic acid extraction, PCR/qPCR and NGS library prep - Experience handling challenging clinical samples such as FFPE or low‑input - Demonstrated ability to develop and refine experimental methods - Capability to run experiments independently and present data clearly - Excellent collaboration across matrix teams - High fluency in English communication (nice‑to‑have) - Experience with single‑cell and spatial transcriptomics platforms (nice‑to‑have) - Strong desire to expand professional network (nice‑to‑have) - Ability to thrive in dynamic inclusive environment (nice‑to‑have)