Summary
The Lentiviral Vector (LVV) Team in the Biologics Research Center (BRC) at Novartis, Cambridge, MA is seeking a highly motivated Research Scientist with experience in production and purification of viral vectors to join our team. In this role, you will play a key part in advancing our Cell and Gene Therapy research initiatives and contributing to groundbreaking research in CAR-T cell therapy.
Job Description
Internal Job Title: Research Scientist I/II
Position Location : Cambridge, MA, onsite
This role is based in Cambridge, MA/USA. Novartis is unable to offer relocation support for this role: please only apply if this location is accessible for you.
Join a collaborative team at the forefront of cell and gene therapy research. As a Research Scientist focused on lentiviral vector purification and analytics, you will apply hands-on laboratory expertise to help develop, optimize, and characterize viral vector processes that support next-generation CAR-T programs. This role offers the opportunity to contribute directly to innovative science, work across purification and analytical workflows, and help advance high-quality research materials that enable transformative therapeutic approaches.
Key responsibilities:
- This is a lab-based position that requires hands-on execution of activities related to lentiviral vector purification including clarification, chromatography and TFF.
- Execute analytical methods (molecular- and cell-based) to assess quality of the purified vector.
- Write and review protocols, technical reports, and technology transfer documents with supported conclusions and recommendations.
- Write and review SOPs, instrument procedures, and other lab documents.
- Plan and prioritize work to meet goals while managing multiple research activities.
- Support experimental design, data analysis, and troubleshooting.
- Identify root causes, implement solutions, and verify effectiveness.
- Present scientific data and contribute openly to discussions.
- Document experimental procedures and processes thoroughly.
- Collaborate across teams, share knowledge, and train team members in technical areas as needed.
Essential Requirements:
- BS or MS in bioengineering, virology, or related field, with relevant lab experience. This is not a PhD-level position.
- 1–3 years of experience in protein and/or viral vector purification.
- Hands-on experience with chromatography and filtration techniques, including TFF and depth filtration.
- Strong coordination, communication, collaboration, learning agility, and self-motivation.
- Proficiency with Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and GraphPad Prism.
- Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
Desirable Requirements:
- BSL2 experience with AAV, lentiviral, or retroviral vector production.
- Proficiency in aseptic technique, cell culture, molecular biology, and analytical testing.
- Bioreactor experience.
