Job Description Summary
#LI-HybridLocation: Basel
Internal Title: Executive Director
The Global Head of Molecular and Cellular Sciences will lead an international group of scientists who develop and implement innovative, diverse molecular and cellular biomarker approaches for the entire Novartis clinical portfolio enabling proof of concept/mechanism goals and the development of novel biological/clinical endpoints. Support transition of impactful biomarkers e.g. precision medicine approaches, to external service providers and provide subject matter expertise to the Novartis portfolio
Job Description
Key Responsibilities:
Responsible for supporting the development and delivery of diverse biomarker strategies, plans and data across the BR and Dev General Medicine portfolio enabling proof of concept/mechanism goals, understanding of drug safety, the development of translational PK/PD models.
Provide biomarker expertise to clinical teams who contribute to and implement complex “fit for purpose” biomarker strategies at study, program, and disease area levels in partnership with Disease Areas/Units and all Translational Medicine line functions.
Maintain “state of the art” science/technical expertise across several diverse molecular and cellular marker areas to enable mid/long term development of innovative clinical endpoints/markers and patient centric/point of care testing.
Share expertise/knowledge with Oncology/Immune Oncology teams where appropriate.
Lead the identification and advancement of early precision medicine biomarker approaches for advancement into later stage drug development (in partnership with Clinical Innovation).
Prioritize and allocate resources across multiple functions within the MCS line function to meet portfolio needs.
Essential Requirements:
PhD and/or MD with broad biology/technology knowledge in the clinical biomarker field
10+ years of impactful experience working in Pharma and/or biotechnology R&D business functions, Clinical Research Organization (CRO) or equivalent academic experience leading internal and external high performing diverse teams and matrix organizations
Demonstrated technical and scientific expertise in multiple areas for development of innovative biomarker solutions
Well-developed interpersonal skills with good presence and ability to influence and negotiate with senior leadership; experienced presenter and communicator
Recognized internally and internationally externally by key stakeholders; in depth understanding of external environment/trends; develops a strong professional network
Desirable Requirements:
Fluent in oral and written English; other languages e.g. German, French, Italian useful but not required
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 [email protected] and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Please include the job requisition number in your message.
Skills Desired
Accountability, Biotechnology, Clinical Research, Clinical Trials, Communication, Data Science, Decision Making, Drug Development, Drug Discovery Process, Influence, Influencing Skills, Leadership, Life Science, Medical Research, Mentorship, Molecular Biology, People Management, Process Simulation, Professional Presentation, Stakeholder Engagement, Stakeholder Management, Strategic Leadership, Strategy, Well-BeingSkills Required
- PhD and/or MD in clinical biomarker field
- 10+ years of experience in Pharma, biotechnology, or equivalent
- Demonstrated expertise in biomarker solutions
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to influence senior leadership
- Fluency in English; other languages beneficial but not required
Novartis Compensation & Benefits Highlights
The following summarizes recurring compensation and benefits themes identified from responses generated by popular LLMs to common candidate questions about Novartis and has not been reviewed or approved by Novartis.
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Healthcare Strength — Pay and benefits are described as a strong overall package, supported by medical, dental, and vision insurance alongside FSAs/HSAs and disability and life coverage. Mental-health support is reinforced through an employee assistance program with psychological support and a network of mental health first aiders.
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Retirement Support — Retirement support is positioned as a standout element, with an automatic company contribution plus dollar-for-dollar matching in the 401(k). Additional retirement funding is described through an age-based defined contribution program and access to an employee share purchase plan discount.
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Parental & Family Support — Family-related benefits are framed as robust, including a global minimum of paid parental leave for new parents following birth or adoption. Added supports include domestic partner coverage, dependent-care resources, and benefits such as adoption assistance and child/elder care options.
Novartis Insights
What We Do
Novartis is an innovative medicines company. Every day, working to reimagine medicine to improve and extend people’s lives so that patients, healthcare professionals and societies are empowered in the face of serious disease. Our medicines reach more than 250 million people worldwide.









