Sr Scientist I

We are seeking two In Vivo Pharmacologists to join our team of Target Progression at Novo Nordisk Research Centre China. This open-rank role will support in vivo pharmacology for target validation and early pipeline at Novo Nordisk in cardiometabolic diseases. You will collaborate across disciplines to generate high-quality efficacy and mechanistic evidence and to inform drug discovery decisions.

Key responsibilities

• Design, execute, and interpret rodent pharmacology studies to support drug discovery programs and translational strategies in cardiometabolic disease areas including diabetes, obesity and comorbidities (MASH, ASCVD, HF, CKD etc.).
• Analyze data and translate findings into actionable conclusions (e.g., PD/efficacy relationships, mechanism hypotheses, biomarker implications).
• Contribute to in vivo model selection, development and refinement based on project needs, internally and through CRO.
• Present results internally and contribute to scientific discussions, study planning, and project decision-making.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with bioinformatics, molecule design, cell biology, bioanalysis, PK/PD, translational medicine, DMPK, safety, and discovery teams to align study strategy with program needs.
• Ensure quality documentation and compliance with relevant SOPs and internal standards.
• Contribute to new drug target proposals

Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in a relevant field (e.g., Pharmacology, Physiology, Biomedical Sciences, Neuroscience, or related disciplines).
• Demonstrated in vivo pharmacology experience with strong scientific rigor in study design and interpretation.
• Proven experience and insights in cardiometabolic diseases (e.g., obesity, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, cardiometabolic risk).

Strong plus:

• Muscle physiology and/or neuroscience expertise/insights, including experience with related functional readouts or mechanistic investigation.

What we’re looking for

• Critical thinking and curiosity in formulating and validating scientific hypotheses based on facts
• Strong data-driven mindset and ability to connect in vivo findings to translational impact.
• Excellent scientific communication (presentations, written summaries) and collaborative working style.
• Ability to work independently while effectively partnering with cross-functional teams.
• Willingness to continuously improve experimental rigor and work efficiency.

How to apply

Please apply via the Novo Nordisk career portal. Submit your CV and include a short summary highlighting your in vivo experience in cardiometabolic research and any muscle physiology/neuroscience background.

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

At Novo Nordisk, we're not chasing quick fixes – we're creating lasting change for long-term health. For over 100 years, we've been driven by a single purpose: to defeat serious chronic diseases and help millions of people live healthier lives. This dedication fuels our constant curiosity and inspires us to push the boundaries of what's possible in healthcare. We embrace diverse perspectives, seek out bold ideas, and build partnerships rooted in shared purpose. Together, we're making healthcare more accessible, treating and preventing diseases, and pioneering solutions that create change spanning generations. When you join us, you become part of something bigger – a legacy of impact that reaches far beyond today.