Wnt Scientific Associate, Developmental & Molecular Pathways

Description Business Unit:  NIBR

Country:  USA

Company/Legal Entity:  USA Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Inc., Cambridge, MA

Posting Functional Area:  Developmental & Molecular Pathways (DMP)

Employment Type:  Permanent

Scientist will be responsible for establishing mammalian cell-based assays for signal transduction systems with relevance to Novartis therapeutic areas, specifically the Wnt signaling pathway. The scientist will convert these assays into screens to identify compounds and genes with therapeutic potential for treating diseases ranging from cancer to osteoporosis.The scientist will use multiple techniques, including gene profiling, RNA interference, and chemical proteomics, to identify the mechanism of action of these agents. The scientist will be involved in designing, implementing and advancing scientific experiments, and should be able to provide critical analysis and interpretation of scientific data.The scientist will evaluate new technologies (e.g. high content screening and imaging) and recommend appropriate specialized laboratory equipment to develop novel assays. The scientist should be familiar with state of the art cell-based screening methods and the use of automated instrumentation.The scientist will also provide technical mentoring and expertise to other research staff in the group. The scientist will report results of studies and make recommendations to scientific leaders in a timely, thorough, organized and coherent manner.

Requirements B.S. or M.S. in Biochemistry, Cell Biology or Molecular BiologyMinimum 5 years experience in biochemistry, mammalian cell biology working with various cell lines and/or cell signaling mechanismsPrevious experience with stable cell line production, design and analysis of cell-based assays, transfection and viral transduction technologies and genetic knockdown techniques including RNAi is required.Proficiency in the use of molecular biology and protein biochemistry technologies, e.g. DNA cloning, Real-time PCR, protein-protein interaction, and enzymatic assays is preferred.Demonstrated ability to evaluate and implement new techniques and technologies.Experience mentoring and leading scientific associates.Must be highly motivated, team-oriented, and have excellent interpersonal and communication skills.