Discovery Postdoctoral Fellow, Chemical Biology and Selective Translation Inhibition

Internal Job Title: Discovery Postdoctoral Fellow

About the role:

We are thrilled to open applications for our Discovery Fellowship track of the Novartis Postdoctoral Fellowship Program.

Come join Novartis Biomedical Research as a Discovery Postdoctoral Fellow and help challenge and reimagine concepts of druggability. As part of our team, you will discover and define molecular insights necessary to impart specificity to translation inhibitors. In this role, you will build upon precedented mechanisms of translation inhibition as well as characterize novel mechanisms.

You will be part of our Discovery Sciences (DSc) team in Cambridge, MA. As a department, we merge advanced technical capabilities with deep scientific expertise to deliver innovations at the leading-edge of drug discovery.

The ideal candidate should demonstrate a diverse skill set and knowledge base in protein biochemistry/biophysics, structural biology, and/or cell biology, as their ability to synthesize insights from a range disciplines will be key to uncovering new strategies for modulating protein/cellular function. While prior experience in translation is beneficial, demonstrating the ability for continuous learning and the adaptability to venture into new areas based on research needs is critical. Though this role necessitates leading from the bench to drive innovation and productivity, it is also essential that the candidate demonstrate an equal commitment to broadening their professional network and ongoing pursuit of professional and personal growth.

As part of the Discovery Fellowship track of the Novartis Postdoctoral Fellowship Program, you will join our vibrant, dedicated postdoctoral community for events, including the monthly postdoc seminars and other scheduled events for postdocs. Fellows are surrounded by a supportive, collaborative community of postdocs and scientists, who would contribute to the acceleration of your scientific growth, along with building your professional skillset, e.g. you will have the opportunity to do a Postdoc Practicum in another laboratory or in a business function of Novartis. This applied research program is up to 3 years in length, with the option of applying for an extension of up to 1 year (pending review by the Head of Biomedical Education & Innovation and the postdoc supervisor).

Discovery Postdoctoral Fellows have a unique opportunity to conduct innovative, interdisciplinary research and are expected to publish their results in leading journals. We collaborate across scientific and organizational boundaries, with a focus on powerful new technologies that have the potential to help produce therapeutic breakthroughs for patients.

Through the Novartis Postdoctoral Fellowship Program, you will build your competency as a drug hunter, and as a scientific leader in the field. You will join a professional network that will support your growth as a research scientist, and you will have the opportunity to tackle disease and make an impact, by reimagining medicine together.

Key responsibilities:

As a Discovery Postdoctoral Fellow, you will:

• Illuminate paths toward more selective translation inhibition through design and implementation of experiments that bring new insights and understanding to mechanisms of translation inhibition.
• Actively shape and evolve the project as new data and insights become available towards the ultimate goal of selective translation inhibition.
• Work collaboratively within a cross-functional and interdisciplinary environment; managing across- and up- the organizational matrix as needed.
• Develop internal relationships in a way that best represents Novartis values of transparency, integrity, courage, innovation, quality and collaboration.

Role Requirements:

• PhD in chemical biology, protein biochemistry/biophysics, structural biology, or cell biology.
• Note that PhD students in the last year of their thesis work are eligible to apply. Applicants are only eligible to apply up to 2 years from the date of receiving their PhD (i.e. PhD degrees must have been awarded May 2023 or later).
• Proven track record of productivity with continuous growth and a self-reliant contributor.
• Strong publication record or other scientific achievements (i.e. awards, patents, grants).
• Excellent analytical, communication, presentation and organizational skills.
• Passion for fundamental exploratory research and boundless curiosity.

How to apply:

Please submit your CV and cover letter by July 11th, 2025 for consideration. Please make sure to discuss in the cover letter how this training program will help you fulfill your career goals.

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The starting salary for this position is $87,000 per year.

US-based eligible employees will receive a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, life and disability benefits, a 401(k) with company contribution and match, and a variety of other benefits. In addition, employees are eligible for a generous time off package including vacation, personal days, holidays and other leaves.

To learn more about the culture, rewards and benefits we offer our people click here.

Why Novartis: Helping people with disease and their families takes more than innovative science. It takes a community of smart, passionate people like you. Collaborating, supporting and inspiring each other. Combining to achieve breakthroughs that change patients’ lives. Ready to create a brighter future together? https://www.novartis.com/about/strategy/people-and-culture

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