Industrial Post Doctoral Researcher in Biocatalysis and Protein Engineering, Basel

Keywords

• Biocatalysis
• Protein Engineering
• Postdoctoral Researcher
• Enzyme Engineering
• Synthetic Biology

Summary

Novartis Genesis Labs in Basel seeks a postdoctoral researcher in biocatalysis and protein engineering to develop transformative technology platforms within its flagship internal innovation program.

Job Description

Novartis Genesis Labs in Basel is looking for a motivated postdoctoral researcher in biocatalysis and protein engineering to join its flagship internal innovation program, the Genesis initiative. This 18-month embedded role places you at the heart of Global Discovery Chemistry, combining the pace of an early-stage biotech with the resources of Novartis Biomedical Research.

• Design and develop innovative technology platforms in biocatalysis and protein engineering to advance Novartis's discovery capabilities.
• Conduct enzyme discovery and engineering campaigns using computational tools and high-throughput automated screening to identify and optimise novel biocatalysts.
• Develop biocatalytic synthetic solutions for efficient, scalable, and sustainable preparation of drug candidates across novel modalities.
• Gain exposure to peptide chemistry and display technologies to expand the diversity of biocatalytic solutions.
• Apply cutting-edge automation platforms for high-throughput enzyme screening and rapid iteration across engineering campaigns.
• Contribute to defining scientific strategy, present findings, contribute to patents, and communicate complex science to diverse audiences.
• Collaborate with experts in molecular biology, biochemistry, bioinformatics, process chemistry, chemical engineering, and analytical chemistry.

• Completed PhD at the interface of chemistry and biology with a focus on biocatalysis, synthetic biology, enzyme engineering, or a closely related discipline.
• Hands-on experience in peptide- or protein-modifying enzymatic transformations is preferred.
• Strong track record of original research and ability to develop innovative (bio)catalytic transformations.
• Scientific curiosity, team spirit, and effective communication skills for a fast-paced, multicultural environment.
• Effective knowledge of English, both oral and written.
• Experience with high-throughput, computational, or display technologies and previous postdoctoral experience is an advantage but not a requirement.

• Access to state-of-the-art infrastructure including advanced automation, high-throughput screening, computational design platforms, and structural biology capabilities.
• Mentorship by world-class scientists within a scientific community spanning academic leaders, industry partners, and the Novartis global network.
• Opportunities to publish, present, and file patents.
• The energy, pace, and creative latitude of a startup combined with the resources and pipeline of a top-five global pharmaceutical company.