Join Novartis MS&T Lab as a DSP Scientist/Engineer. Design & execute downstream process studies, lead tech transfers & support biologics lifecycle. 2-8 yrs biopharma DSP exp. req. Apply now.
Shape the Future of Biologics Manufacturing
At Novartis, we are reimagining medicine to improve and extend people’s lives. Our Manufacturing Science & Technology (MS&T) team is at the heart of this mission, ensuring the robust, scalable, and innovative manufacturing of our life-changing biologic therapies.
We are seeking a passionate Downstream Process (DSP) Scientist or Engineer to join our dynamic MS&T Laboratory team. In this hands-on, technical role, you will design and execute critical laboratory and pilot-scale studies to support technology transfers, process lifecycle management, and continuous improvement for our global biologics network. Your work will directly contribute to the reliable supply of innovative medicines to patients worldwide.
Your Mission: Translate Science into Robust Manufacturing Processes
You will be a key contributor in a lab-based MS&T team, responsible for developing, characterizing, and optimizing downstream purification processes (e.g., chromatography, filtration). You will bridge development and commercial manufacturing, ensuring processes are scalable, compliant, and efficient.
Key Responsibilities
1. Lead Technical Execution & Process Development
- Design, plan, and execute small- and pilot-scale downstream process studies to support process characterization, optimization, and validation.
- Lead or actively participate in technology transfer activities from development labs or other sites into the MS&T lab, and subsequently support scale-up to commercial manufacturing.
- Operate and troubleshoot lab/pilot-scale DSP equipment (AKTA systems, depth filters, TFF, etc.).
2. Drive Lab Excellence & Compliance
- Prepare, review, and maintain precise technical documentation, including lab instructions, study protocols, and reports.
- Ensure full compliance with GxP standards, Novartis HSE guidelines, and SOPs in all laboratory activities.
- Support the qualification, calibration, and maintenance of laboratory equipment and manage related change control.
3. Support Strategic MS&T Objectives
- Manage laboratory inventory and support procurement of critical materials.
- Contribute to or lead continuous improvement (CI) projects to enhance laboratory efficiency, data integrity, or scientific capabilities.
- Collaborate closely with upstream and analytics lab teams, providing integrated support for MS&T projects.
Who You Are: The Ideal Candidate
You are a hands-on, results-oriented scientist or engineer with a solid foundation in downstream bioprocessing. You thrive in a lab environment, are meticulous about data and compliance, and enjoy solving complex technical challenges.
Your Required Foundation (Essential):
- University degree (BSc or MSc) in Chemical/Biochemical Engineering, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, or a related life science field.
- 2 to 8 years of relevant hands-on experience in downstream processing within a biopharmaceutical environment.
- Strong practical knowledge of downstream unit operations (chromatography, UF/DF, viral filtration, etc.).
- Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and technical writing skills.
- A proactive learner with strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams.
- Fundamental understanding of GxP principles and quality systems.
Skills That Will Make You Stand Out (Desired):
- Direct experience with technology transfer and scale-up of biologics processes.
- Practical experience in process characterization and validation (PPQ) support.
- Proficiency with data analytics software and process control principles.
- Demonstrated application of root cause analysis (RCA), Lean, or Six Sigma methodologies.
- Experience with change control, CAPA, and risk management processes in a GMP context.
- Familiarity with upstream cell culture processes.
Why Join the MS&T Team at Novartis?
1. Impact at Scale
- Your lab work directly impacts global manufacturing sites and the reliable supply of transformative medicines.
- Work on a diverse portfolio of biologics (mAbs, advanced therapeutics) across all stages of the product lifecycle.
2. Technical & Career Growth
- Gain unparalleled experience at the intersection of process development, validation, and commercial manufacturing.
- Clear career progression pathways within MS&T, Process Development, or Manufacturing.
3. Innovative & Collaborative Culture
- Work in state-of-the-art laboratories with cutting-edge technology.
- Be part of a world-class scientific community within a leading global pharmaceutical company.
- Benefit from a culture that values curiosity, collaboration, and professional development.
Ready to Engineer the Processes Behind Medical Breakthroughs?
If you are a skilled DSP professional eager to apply your expertise in a high-impact, GMP-oriented laboratory setting, we encourage you to apply.
Join us in our mission to reimagine medicine. Apply today.