Job Description

Summary

The Principal Scientist, ADPKD Biology Lead is a senior, lab-embedded scientific leader responsible for shaping and executing ADPKD discovery biology strategy across a portfolio of preclinical programs. The role will translate insights from human genetics and disease biology into differentiated target hypotheses, lead target triage and validation in advanced human-relevant model systems, including 3D platforms, and deliver decision-grade biology packages to enable robust, biology-driven portfolio go/no-go decisions and progression to preclinical proof-of-concept.

About the Role

Internal Position Title: Principal Scientist I/II
Position Location: onsite, Cambridge, MA #LI-onsite

Position Summary:

We are expanding our efforts in autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) to delineate key drivers of renal cyst pathophysiology and develop transformative therapies beyond the current standard of care. 

The Principal Scientist, ADPKD Biology Lead is a senior, lab-embedded scientific leader responsible for shaping and executing ADPKD discovery biology strategy across a portfolio of preclinical programs. The role will translate insights from human genetics and disease biology into differentiated target hypotheses, lead target triage and validation in advanced human-relevant model systems, including 3D platforms, and deliver decision-grade biology packages to enable robust, biology-driven portfolio go/no-go decisions and progression to preclinical proof-of-concept.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead a portfolio of renal discovery programs from target hypothesis through preclinical proof-of-concept (PoC) and transition toward clinical candidate selection.
• Serve as the ADPKD disease biology lead, defining and evolving discovery biology strategy across the portfolio, including target prioritization and biology-driven go/no-go recommendations.
• Lead the triage and validation of novel biological insights emerging from functional genomics, phenotypic screening, and pharmacologic or genetic perturbation studies.
• Design fit-for-purpose experimental strategies to establish mechanism of action, pathway engagement, and efficacy-relevant biology in ADPKD.
• Maintain a strong understanding of the external scientific and competitive landscape in ADPKD and broader chronic kidney disease; identify emerging targets, modalities, and partnership opportunities to sustain innovation.

Essential requirements:

• PhD in nephrology, physiology, pharmacology, molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, or a related discipline.
• Significant postdoctoral and/or industry experience in kidney disease research, typically 8–10+ years, with meaningful drug discovery experience in a pharmaceutical or biotechnology setting.
• Deep expertise in ADPKD biology and/or strong experience in the pathophysiology of renal cystogenesis, including areas such as cilia biology, polycystin trafficking, epithelial biology, inflammation, or metabolism.
• Demonstrated experience across multiple stages of drug discovery, including target identification and validation, assay strategy, and mechanistic pharmacology.
• Strong hands-on understanding of state-of-the-art in vitro methods, including molecular biology, biochemistry, and cellular analytics, as well as translatable cellular disease models in both 2D and 3D systems (advanced kidney organoids).

• Proven ability to lead, mentor and develop a high-performing team of scientists, and to coach research associates and junior scientists.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English, including the ability to present complex datasets clearly and concisely to diverse audiences

Desirable Qualifications:

• Expertise with complex renal cell platforms (3D human cyst models/organoids and engineered renal epithelial platforms; primary renal epithelial and stromal co-culture systems (2D and 3D) relevant to cystogenesis). 
• Proficiency in leveraging large-scale datasets (genetics, next-generation sequencing (NGS), single-cell omics) to inform biology, target selection, and stratification. 

The salary for this position is expected to range between $108,500 and $201,500 per year for Principal Scientist I, and $126,000 and $234,000 per year for Principal Scientist II. The final salary offered is determined based on factors like, but not limited to, relevant skills and experience, and upon joining Novartis will be reviewed periodically. Novartis may change the published salary range based on company and market factors.

Your compensation will include a performance-based cash incentive and, depending on the level of the role, eligibility to be considered for annual equity awards.

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 .

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EEO Statement:

The Novartis Group of Companies are Equal Opportunity Employers. We do not discriminate in recruitment, hiring, training, promotion or other employment practices for reasons of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status.

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