Are you passionate about leveraging 3D cell culture / Organoids to drive biomarker discovery and qualification to help de-risk early clinical programs? Join us in Translational Research at Novo Nordisk, where we are pioneering new approaches to identify and qualify target engagement (TE), proof-of-mechanism (PoM) and disease modulation biomarkers for new drug targets. The role offers an exciting opportunity to explore novel biomarkers to understand drug and disease mechanisms while allowing close collaboration with peers from the entire translational value chain.

The position

• Lead the design and implementation of 3D cell culture / organoid-based experiments to discover and qualify biomarkers for new drug targets within cardiometabolic diseases
• Utilize advanced techniques in cell biology, molecular biology, and omics technologies to profile cellular responses to treatment within 3D models
• Collaborate closely with bioinformatics and data analysis teams to integrate multi-omics data and identify candidate biomarkers for qualification
• Establish robust experimental protocols and undertake automation measures to ensure reproducibility and reliability of experimental results
• Work collaboratively with cross-functional teams to translate biomarker discoveries into drug MoA understanding
• Mentor junior scientists and contribute to a collaborative and intellectually stimulating research environment.

Qualifications

You hold a Ph.D. in Cell Biology, Bioengineering, Biomedical Sciences, or related field with 2 - 5 years of research experience in 3D cell culture and organoid research, part of the expertise derived from drug discovery experience in pharma, biotech, or academia. Alternatively, you come with a Master’s in Life Sciences combined with 6 - 9 years of research experience in the field as described above.

To thrive and succeed in the role, you have:

• Demonstrated expertise in using 3D models / organoids for biomarker discovery and qualification within cardiometabolic space
• Hands-on-experience in culturing and manipulating various cell types within 3D environments, including but not limited to organoids, spheroids and microtissues / precision cut tissue slices
• Proficiency in a wide range of laboratory techniques, including high content imaging, molecular biology and/or next generation sequencing (NGS)
• Strong analytical skills and experience with data analysis software and bioinformatics tools

• Track record of scientific excellence demonstrated by publications in peer-reviewed journals and/or patents.

As a person, you exhibit a strong translational mindset with excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. Being proactive and a dedicated team player are some of the key attributes we are seeking in potential candidates.

About The Department

At the Biomarker Discovery & Qualification department, we discover and qualify TE, PoM and disease modulation biomarkers. We employ human in vitro / ex vivo systems and in vivo animal models as well as apply omics technologies to generate high-quality biomarker data to guide decision-making in research and early development. Currently, the department consists of 9 scientists and is part of the Translational Research VP area. Other departments in Translational Research include Biomarker Assay Development, Omics Technologies and Translational Imaging.

Translational Research is part of Global Translation, an organisational area responsible for the application of translational approaches across all the therapy areas in Novo Nordisk. Our ambitious goal is to ensure early, data-driven decision-making in clinical trials by application of target engagement, proof-of-mechanism, and disease modulation biomarkers as well as enabling precision medicine. Global Translation is part of Novo Nordisk's Research & Early Development and is located in Måløv, Greater Copenhagen.

Working at Novo Nordisk

At Novo Nordisk, we do not wait for change. We drive it. We are a dynamic company in an even more dynamic industry, and we know that what got us to where we are today is not necessarily what will make us successful in the future. We embrace the spirit of experimentation, striving for excellence, without fixating on perfection. We never shy away from opportunities to develop we seize them. From research and development to manufacturing, marketing, and sales – we’re all working to move the needle on patient care.

Contact

For further information, please contact Madhan Selvaraj, Director Biomarker Discovery & Qualification at xmsj@novonordisk.com

Deadline

3 March 2024.

Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis, so we encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

You do not need to attach a cover letter to your application, but please include a few sentences about why you are applying in your resume or CV. To ensure an efficient and fair recruitment process, please refrain from adding a photo to your CV.

We commit to an inclusive recruitment process and equality of opportunity for all our job applicants.

At Novo Nordisk we recognize that it is no longer good enough to aspire to be the best company in the world. We need to aspire to be the best company for the world and we know that this is only possible with talented employees with diverse perspectives, backgrounds and cultures. We are therefore committed to creating an inclusive culture that celebrates the diversity of our employees, the patients we serve and communities we operate in. Together, we’re life changing.