Next Generation Scientist 2026

Job Description Summary

The Next Generation Scientist Program is an intensive internship program for talented and motivated research scientists from low- and middle-income countries. The 3-month program (01 June to 31 August 2026), hosted at our research site in Basel, Switzerland, is designed to foster both their scientific and professional development and consists of classroom sessions, group work assignments and active individual contribution. Guided by Novartis mentors, the interns work on a jointly agreed upon, pre-competitive scientific or clinical research project. Additionally, they learn about the pharmaceutical drug discovery and development process as well as participate in a leadership development program designed to enhance decision-making and communication skills. The internship program is run jointly by Novartis and the University of Basel.
The Next Generation Scientist Program aims to build scientific and leadership capability in low- and middle-income countries by enhancing the skills of local scientists and by facilitating the knowledge transfer to their wider scientific communities upon their return home. An internship is possible in any of the broad range of therapeutic areas in which Novartis is involved; scientists with background and interest in malaria, dengue, cryptosporidiosis, visceral leishmaniasis, leprosy, sickle cell disease or Chagas disease are encouraged to apply.

 

Job Description

Application:
Please make sure to add the following documents to your application, combined in one PDF file:
• CV or résumé
• Letter of recommendation/support from a faculty member

• Letter of motivation how the program will benefit you
• Research question of interest

• Current MSc or PhD research proposal

• Academic transcripts/grade reports

Minimum requirements:

• Enrolled at university as MSc, PhD or MD student in a geography of scope (low- and middle-income country)
• Research background in malaria, dengue, cryptosporidiosis, visceral leishmaniasis, leprosy, sickle cell disease or Chagas disease preferred
• Active participation in all program and training activities expected
• Good verbal and written English communication skills
• Ability to work independently and in groups
• Time management and good organizational skills

• Duration and dates: 12-week program from 01 June to 31 August 2026; onsite Basel Campus, Switzerland

• Preferred field of studies: Natural and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Medicine, and related fields of study

• Language: English
 

 

Skills Desired