Novartis Early Career Opportunities 2026: Internships, Research and Postdoctoral Programmes
Are you a student, recent graduate or aspiring biomedical researcher looking to gain experience in the pharmaceutical industry? Novartis offers early-career opportunities designed to help emerging talent develop scientific knowledge, practical skills and professional experience.
The programmes cover different stages of career development, from school-level science exposure and university internships to postbaccalaureate research and postdoctoral fellowships.
Novartis states that its early-career opportunities are intended for people with approximately zero to three years of post-degree experience, across different degree levels.
1. Community Exploration & Learning Lab (CELL)
The Community Exploration & Learning Lab (CELL) at Novartis introduces students in the Cambridge and greater Boston area to biomedical science and drug discovery.
The programme combines hands-on experiments with problem-solving activities. Students learn about scientific concepts through lessons connected to research activities at the Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research (NIBR).
Novartis scientist volunteers also mentor students and share information about their education and career journeys.
Who can participate?
- Middle and upper school students in grades 6–8.
- High school students in grades 9–12.
- Participants must be at least 11 years old.
Learn more: https://www.novartis.com/careers/career-programs/community-exploration-learning-lab-cell
2. Novartis Summer Internship Programme
The Novartis Summer Internship Programme offers a 12-week opportunity to gain practical industry experience.
Interns can explore work across nine divisions and more than 25 functional areas. The programme also provides networking opportunities and exposure to the company’s work in developing medicines and improving patient outcomes.
This opportunity may suit students seeking experience in a large pharmaceutical and healthcare organisation.
3. Novartis Gene Therapies Internship Programme
The Novartis Gene Therapies Internship Programme provides a 12-week opportunity to gain experience in gene therapy, an advanced area of medicine.
Participants receive support from managers and work in a collaborative environment intended to encourage learning and professional growth.
Applicants interested in biotechnology, biomedical science and innovative medical treatments can explore this programme for relevant opportunities.
4. NIBR Summer of Science Research Internship
The Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research (NIBR) Summer of Science programme is a paid, 10-week research internship for undergraduate students.
Participants have the opportunity to:
- Design and conduct scientific experiments.
- Learn experimental techniques.
- Develop their understanding of scientific concepts.
- Explore drug discovery research.
- Connect with fellow interns and scientific leaders.
The programme offers exposure to research careers within the biomedical industry.
Learn more about NIBR internship programmes: https://www.novartis.com/careers/internship-programs
Application portal: https://nibr-bei.smapply.io/
5. NIBR Postbaccalaureate Programme (PRISM)
The NIBR Postbaccalaureate Programme, known as PRISM, is a two-year programme designed to help talented students from historically under-represented groups in science prepare for graduate school.
Participants are matched with scientific mentors and conduct interdisciplinary basic research. They can also present research at seminars and conferences, evaluate scientific publications and strengthen their communication skills.
The programme includes preparation for graduate or professional school.
Eligibility: Applicants should be recent college graduates with a major in a relevant scientific field and a strong interest in pursuing a PhD or MD/PhD in biomedical research.
Learn more and apply: https://www.nibr.com/careers
Applicants should also consult the official Novartis internship programmes page for current programme details and application instructions.
6. NIBR Postdoctoral Programme
The global NIBR Postdoctoral Programme supports the development of future scientific leaders through advanced research in a pharmaceutical setting.
Postdoctoral fellows work on exploratory research projects under the mentorship of experienced principal scientists. They are expected to contribute to scientific publications and present their work at conferences.
The programme includes several pathways:
- Discovery Fellows: Focus on fundamental scientific challenges, with a three-year programme.
- Innovation Fellows: Gain experience in the design and development of potential breakthrough therapies and technologies. The programme lasts three years.
- DS/AI Innovation Fellows: Explore opportunities at the intersection of drug discovery, data science and artificial intelligence, with a three-year fellowship term.
These opportunities are intended for early-career scientists interested in advanced biomedical research and scientific innovation.
How to Apply for Novartis Early-Career Opportunities
Interested applicants should follow these steps:
- Visit the official Novartis careers website.
- Select a programme relevant to your education, experience and research interests.
- Read the eligibility requirements and programme description carefully.
- Prepare your CV and any requested academic documents.
- Submit your application through the relevant official application portal.
- Check the vacancy announcement for deadlines and any additional requirements.
APPLY ON THE OFFICIAL WEBSITE
Important Information for Applicants
The programmes described above are associated with different locations, including opportunities in the United States. Eligibility, availability, funding and application deadlines may differ by programme.
The source information provided does not specify current application deadlines for every programme. Applicants should therefore confirm whether applications are open before preparing or submitting an application.
Final Thoughts
Novartis offers several pathways for people interested in science, medicine, biotechnology and pharmaceutical research. Whether you are still at school, completing an undergraduate degree, preparing for graduate studies or pursuing postdoctoral research, these programmes may help you develop relevant skills and explore future career options.
Visit the official Novartis careers website to review available opportunities and identify programmes that match your qualifications and ambitions.
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