Bioanalytical Scientist / Research Associate (Large Molecule Bioanalysis)
Summary
Develops and runs lab assays to analyze large-molecule drugs, coordinates external lab partners, and ensures data meets regulatory standards.
Ridgeline Discovery, a Versant Ventures Discovery Engine, creates and operates Versant-financed innovative biotech companies in partnership with entrepreneurs, industry, and leading academics across Europe. In recent years, Ridgeline has assembled an international team of >50 highly experienced drug discovery and industry professionals and built and operated multiple new successful companies; these companies have raised significant funds through Series B, IPO and an exit through a trade sale.
We are seeking a highly motivated Bioanalytical Scientist / Research Associate to support the development and execution of bioanalytical strategies for large molecule therapeutics. The successful candidate will play a key role in establishing, developing, qualifying, validating, troubleshooting, and overseeing immunoassays used to support preclinical and clinical studies.
This position combines hands-on laboratory work with external study coordination, requiring close collaboration with contract research organizations (CROs), project teams, and cross-functional stakeholders. The ideal candidate is scientifically rigorous, highly organized, and experienced in bioanalytical support for complex biologic modalities.
- Design, develop, optimize, qualify, and validate bioanalytical methods for large molecule therapeutics.
- Establish, develop, and perform immunoassays, including ligand-binding assays (LBAs) such as ELISA, MSD/ECL, Gyrolab, and related platforms.
- Lead assay troubleshooting, root-cause investigations, and implementation of corrective actions.
- Generate robust bioanalytical data to support pharmacokinetic (PK), immunogenicity (ADA/NAb), and biomarker assessments.
- Ensure assays are fit-for-purpose and compliant with applicable regulatory guidance and industry best practices.
- Contribute to the scientific interpretation of bioanalytical data and preparation of study reports.
- Analyze, document, and communicate experimental results clearly and accurately.
- Maintain relevant laboratory documentation, assay procedures, and validation records.
- Serve as the bioanalytical point of contact for external CRO partners.
- Coordinate assay transfer, method development, qualification, validation, and sample analysis activities conducted by CROs.
- Review study protocols, validation plans, data packages, and final reports.
- Monitor study timelines, deliverables, data quality, and regulatory compliance.
- Collaborate with internal project teams to ensure timely delivery of bioanalytical support across programs.
- Provide scientific oversight of outsourced bioanalytical activities and contribute to vendor selection and performance evaluation.
- MSc in Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Immunology, or a related field with relevant industry experience; or PhD in a relevant scientific discipline.
- 3+ years (Research Associate) or 5+ years (Scientist) of relevant experience in bioanalysis of large molecule therapeutics within biotechnology, pharmaceutical, or contract research laboratory environments.
- Proven hands-on experience developing, qualifying, validating, overseeing, and troubleshooting immunoassays.
- Experience supporting pharmacokinetic, immunogenicity, and biomarker bioanalysis programs.
- Experience managing outsourced bioanalytical activities and working effectively with CROs.
- Strong expertise in ligand-binding assays and immunoassay platforms (ELISA, MSD/ECL, Gyrolab, or equivalent).
- Familiarity with regulatory expectations and guidance for bioanalytical method validation.
- Strong data analysis, interpretation, and scientific reporting skills.
- Experience working in GxP-regulated environments is an advantage.
- Experience with MS applications for complex therapeutic modalities is considered a plus
- Hands-on, proactive, and solution-oriented scientist.
- Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving capabilities.
- Excellent organizational and project coordination skills.
- Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively across internal and external teams.
- Capable of managing multiple priorities in a dynamic environment.
- People: We are an international and diverse team with talented and passionate people.
- Creativity: We offer an innovative and creative environment.
- Development: We support the individual development of our employees.
- Fun: From time-to-time we organise cool off-site summer and winter team events.
- Offices: Our well-equipped laboratories and offices are located at the Tech Park, a premier address for early-stage start-ups in Basel.
- Commuter Benefits: We support our employees tailored to their personal needs in commuting to work and offer parking facilities or a commuter contribution.
- Flexible Working: We support flexible working as appropriate.
- Christmas Closure: In addition to the 24 holidays per year, our offices/labs are closed between Christmas and New Year.
- Birthday Retreat: On top of that, your birthday is your personal holiday - our employees enjoy their birthday with a day off.
- Food: We like get-togethers during lunch time. Enjoy tasty, subsidised meals from our FELFEL food fridge.
Please note that these benefits are subject to change at the company’s discretion and do not constitute a contractual entitlement.