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Principal Scientist, Liquid Handling Lab Leader, Compound Management

5-10 years
USD 114,100 – 211,900
10 Nov. 26, 2025
Job Description
Job Type: Full Time Education: B.Sc/M.Sc/M.Pharma/B.Pharma/Life Sciences Skills: Causality Assessment, Clinical SAS Programming, Communication Skills, CPC Certified, GCP guidelines, ICD-10 CM Codes, CPT-Codes, HCPCS Codes, ICD-10 CM, CPT, HCPCS Coding, ICH guidelines, ICSR Case Processing, Interpersonal Skill, Labelling Assessment, MedDRA Coding, Medical Billing, Medical Coding, Medical Terminology, Narrative Writing, Research & Development, Technical Skill, Triage of ICSRs, WHO DD Coding

Principal Scientist – Liquid Handling Lab Leader, Compound Management

Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
Job Type: Full-Time | Onsite
Experience Required: 10+ years (BS/MS) or 5+ years (PhD)

Overview

Novartis BioMedical Research is seeking a Principal Scientist to lead the Liquid Handling Laboratory within the global Discovery Sciences (DSc) Compound Management group. This role is suited for a highly skilled technology expert with deep experience in liquid handling, automation, and process optimization. The selected candidate will lead a high-throughput lab, manage compound plate generation workflows, and drive continuous process improvements that support global drug discovery initiatives.

This position may be hired as Principal Scientist I or Principal Scientist II, depending on experience and skill level.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead and manage a high-throughput liquid handling lab responsible for generating compound plates for internal research programs.

  • Maintain, troubleshoot, and optimize automated liquid handling workstations and compound management platforms.

  • Develop, maintain, and update SOPs for process and quality control in compliance with operational standards.

  • Identify workflow gaps and implement enhancements to increase reliability, throughput, and system performance.

  • Collaborate with global automation engineering teams to install and validate new liquid handling systems and sample processing technologies.

  • Coordinate plate preparation requests with internal stakeholders to ensure timely delivery.

  • Present operational updates, data summaries, and process outcomes in cross-functional scientific meetings.

  • Supervise, mentor, and develop a team of one to three associates.

Essential Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Engineering, or a related scientific field with 10+ years of relevant experience, OR

  • PhD with 5+ years of relevant experience in liquid handling, lab automation, or compound management.

  • Proven hands-on expertise with automated liquid handling systems such as Hamilton STARlet, Tecan Freedom EVO, CyBio FeliX, and Echo acoustic dispensers.

  • Strong proficiency with software for lab automation, preferably including scripting capabilities (Venus, EvoWare, Momentum, Cellario, GBG).

  • Demonstrated experience in compound management operations within a drug discovery environment.

  • High attention to detail and a strong commitment to operational excellence.

  • Capability to work independently and collaboratively across multidisciplinary global teams.

  • Excellent communication, documentation, and organizational skills.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience working in low molecular weight (LMW) drug discovery organizations.

  • Prior involvement in implementing new automation systems or workflows.

  • Strong ability to manage shifting priorities in a fast-paced research setting.

Compensation

  • Principal Scientist I: USD 103,600 – 192,400 per year

  • Principal Scientist II: USD 114,100 – 211,900 per year

Final compensation will depend on experience, skill level, and internal market factors. Eligible employees may receive performance-based incentives and annual equity consideration.

Benefits

Eligible US-based employees receive:

  • Comprehensive health, life, and disability insurance

  • 401(k) plan with company contribution and match

  • Paid vacation, holidays, and personal leave

  • Additional benefits supporting work-life integration and professional development

About Novartis

Novartis is committed to advancing patient care through cutting-edge science and a collaborative research culture. The organization encourages innovation, cross-functional teamwork, and professional growth. Learn more at the Novartis people and culture portal.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Novartis is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, disability, gender identity or expression, marital status, or veteran status.

Accessibility and Accommodations

Applicants requiring reasonable accommodations due to disability may contact the Novartis accommodations team at +1 (877) 395-2339 or via email. Include the job requisition number in your message.