Medicinal Organic Chemist - Chemical Biology (BS or MS)
Novartis
August 15, 2026
On-site
Cambridge, MA
Other
Job Description
- Lab-based role carrying out multi-step organic chemistry synthesis routes to prepare organic molecules testing molecular biology hypotheses and disease-related pathways.
- Use mechanistic organic chemistry to perform functional group transformations and build complex structures.
- Use modern purification techniques for final product isolation; gather and analyze characterization data for structural confirmation.
- Analyze assay results using data tools and Data Science/A.I. to support the Design, Make, Test, Analyze (DMTA) cycle.
Key Responsibilities
- Design compounds based on team or individual hypotheses and perform multi-step syntheses of small molecules.
- Analyze and interpret data; troubleshoot synthetic issues; design follow-up experiments.
- Collaborate effectively as part of a cross-functional team.
- Adhere to laboratory safety policies and practices.
Essential Requirements
- BS or MS in chemistry; 0–5 years of industrial experience (not a PhD-level position).
- Mechanistic understanding of organic chemistry; knowledge of modern organic synthetic methods (medicinal chemistry knowledge is a plus).
- Familiarity with common synthesis, purification, and analytical techniques.
- Strong problem-solving and communication skills.
Desirable Requirements
- Expertise in chemical biology and synthesis of chemical probes.
- Hands-on experience across a wide range of compound classes, including practical techniques, method development, and purification techniques.
Compensation and Benefits (as stated)
- Salary range: Research Scientist I $66,800–$124,000; Research Scientist II $81,200–$150,800; plus performance-based cash incentive and potential annual equity awards (level-dependent). US-based employees receive a comprehensive benefits package including health, life and disability, 401(k) with match, and time off.
- Lab-based role carrying out multi-step organic chemistry synthesis routes to prepare organic molecules testing molecular biology hypotheses and disease-related pathways.
- Use mechanistic organic chemistry to perform functional group transformations and build complex structures.
- Use modern purification techniques for final product isolation; gather and analyze characterization data for structural confirmation.
- Analyze assay results using data tools and Data Science/A.I. to support the Design, Make, Test, Analyze (DMTA) cycle.
Key Responsibilities
- Design compounds based on team or individual hypotheses and perform multi-step syntheses of small molecules.
- Analyze and interpret data; troubleshoot synthetic issues; design follow-up experiments.
- Collaborate effectively as part of a cross-functional team.
- Adhere to laboratory safety policies and practices.
Essential Requirements
- BS or MS in chemistry; 0–5 years of industrial experience (not a PhD-level position).
- Mechanistic understanding of organic chemistry; knowledge of modern organic synthetic methods (medicinal chemistry knowledge is a plus).
- Familiarity with common synthesis, purification, and analytical techniques.
- Strong problem-solving and communication skills.
Desirable Requirements
- Expertise in chemical biology and synthesis of chemical probes.
- Hands-on experience across a wide range of compound classes, including practical techniques, method development, and purification techniques.
Compensation and Benefits (as stated)
- Salary range: Research Scientist I $66,800–$124,000; Research Scientist II $81,200–$150,800; plus performance-based cash incentive and potential annual equity awards (level-dependent). US-based employees receive a comprehensive benefits package including health, life and disability, 401(k) with match, and time off.