USP Research Scientist II

Salary Range: CHF65,870.00 - CHF122,330.00 Job Description Summary Work Arrangement: Onsite, #LI-Onsite Location: Basel, Switzerland Relocation Support: This role is based in Basel, Switzerland. Novartis is unable to offer relocation support: please only apply if accessible About the Role: Imagine helping bring the next generation of life-changing biologic medicines to patients around the world. As an Upstream Process (USP) Research Scientist II within the Biologics Research Center at Novartis, you will play a hands-on role in advancing our innovative biologics pipeline through cutting-edge mammalian protein expression technologies. Working alongside a collaborative team of scientists, you will contribute to the development and production of recombinant proteins and antibodies that support groundbreaking research programs. This is an exciting opportunity for a curious, driven scientist who enjoys solving complex scientific challenges, embracing new technologies, and making a meaningful impact on the future of medicine in a world-class research environment. Job Description Key Responsibilities: Execute mammalian cell culture processes to produce recombinant antibodies, antibody fragments, and therapeutic proteins. Expand and maintain suspension cell cultures from laboratory to pilot scale manufacturing volumes. Operate single-use bioreactor systems to support high-quality protein expression programs. Design, perform, and analyze experiments to resolve technical challenges and optimize processes. Evaluate scientific literature and apply innovative technologies to improve research outcomes. Maintain laboratory readiness through equipment management and preparation of sterile production materials. Document findings, communicate results, and actively contribute to multidisciplinary project discussions. Essential Requirements: Master’s Degree in Life Sciences plus relevant industry experience of sterile mammalian cell culture or bioprocessing. Strong hands-on experience with mammalian cell technologies, stable cell lines, and sterile laboratory techniques. Hands on experience of Wave Systems Knowledge of suspension cell culture systems and large-scale cell expansion workflows. The ability to follow platform-based approaches with a curiosity and exploratory mindset to think about how improvements can be made. Ability to rapidly learn and apply new scientific technologies, methodologies, and laboratory equipment. Proven ability to prioritize workloads, manage timelines, and deliver high-quality results. Excellent communication and collaboration skills with a proactive, quality-focused approach to teamwork. English, both written and spoken, is essential and German is advantageous Desirable Requirements: Experience in Molecular Biology. Experience in Downstream Processing Benefits & Rewards: At Novartis, we’re committed to reimagining medicine together - and rewarding the people who make it happen. Expected Annual Base Salary Range for role: 65,870.00 - 122,330.00 CHF The base salary offered is determined based on gender-neutral objectives, such as relevant skills, competencies and experience in accordance with the Novartis pay setting policy and upon joining Novartis will be reviewed periodically. In addition to your base salary, you may be eligible for a performance-based bonus depending on certain performance parameters. The rewards of being part of our team go far beyond base pay and incentives. We also offer a variety of competitive benefits in kind to help you thrive personally and professionally, such as insurance plans, retirement plans, wellbeing resources and global recognition programs. In addition, we provide flexible and hybrid working options, where possible, and minimum 14 weeks paid parental leave. Read our brochure to learn more about our global total rewards offering: Note: Benefits and compensation may vary by country and are subject to local legal requirements, including provisions of collective bargaining agreements where applicable. A full overview of your compensation package, including any relevant collective bargaining agreement details applicable to your role based on your employment location and Novartis employer entity, will be communicated separately to you during the application process. 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 and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Please include the job requisition number in your message. Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion: Novartis is committed to building an outstanding, inclusive work environment and diverse teams representative of the patients and communities we serve. 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 to receive more detailed information about the essential functions of a position, please email and share the nature of your request along with 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? Skills Desired Algorithms, Analytical Thinking, Chemical Biology, Clinical Research, Clinical Trials, Collaboration, Curious Mindset, Data Analysis, Detail-Oriented, Ethics, Hypothesis Testing, Immunology, Mammalian Cell Culture, Medical Research, Molecular Biology, Science