Novartis will always work the system to their advantage. They will try to break you the old fashion way, which still may work to your advantage. Putting you on a PIP makes more work for the manager and if you file a BPO grievance, they now have to worry about exposure and risk of a retaliation lawsuit (Novartis's biggest HR and outside counsel fear).
The issue that you face is that if or when you stand up for yourself, you will be instantly marked by HR for separation. It is highly unlikely you will succeed with the PIP as the interpretation of success is subjective between HR and your manager. Additionally, remember, your an employee at will, so they can simply terminate you based upon a reassessment of business needs.
As stated before, the issue that puts fear into the heart of Novartis HR and outside HR legal council is a Retaliation Lawsuit.
Your goal is to remain calm, seek legal council, and be prepared to immediately respond in writing to your Boss, His Boss, and HR that the decision to place you on a PIP is invalid based upon the provided rebuttal to each deficiency. Do not be emotional or subject, but simply state facts to the contrary.
Novartis also has a anti-bullying or harassment policy, which I highly encourage you to review and determine if there is grounds to file a complaint with Novartis BPO, especially if they start to work you over the "old fashion way.". If you believe that you have a case, do not hesitate to report it as this is the first step to potentially win a Retaliation Case in your favor if they take action.