The posting
Project
Venture Creation: • Lead the full cycle: idea generation, validation, MVP development, pilot execution, spin-off creation; • Develop business cases, financial models, and go-to-market strategies; • Conduct customer discovery, market assessment, and competitive analysis in IVD, molecular diagnostics, biosensors; • Make data-driven kill/proceed decisions to optimize portfolio resources.
Team Building: • Recruit founding teams (CEO, CTO, CSO) for spin-off companies; • Build Scientific Advisory Boards and expert networks; • Mentor portfolio teams and establish partnerships with academic institutions.
Fundraising: • Prepare investment materials and negotiate with funds; • Structure funding rounds; • Present projects to the Investment Committee and external investors.
Governance & Regulatory: • Serve on the Boards of Directors of spin-off companies; • Evaluate regulatory pathways; • Develop IP strategies and ensure compliance standards.
Requirements:
Mandatory • Education: PhD or Master's degree in biotechnology, biology, chemistry, bioengineering, medicine, or related sciences; MBA is an advantage; • Experience: 5+ years in venture building, corporate venturing, startup creation, or early-stage venture capital; • Track record: 3+ biotech/medtech projects created (from idea to fundraising or exit); • Scientific depth: strong understanding of IVD and biotechnological processes; • Regulatory knowledge: familiarity with Swissmedic, MDR/IVDR, FDA; African regulators (SAHPRA, NAFDAC) are an advantage; • Fundraising: proven experience conducting rounds from pre-seed to Series A; • Languages: fluent English, German or French (B2); • Board experience: serving on Boards of Directors or as a startup advisor.
Core Competencies • Entrepreneurial mindset: ability to create from scratch, work in conditions of high uncertainty; • Systems thinking: see both the technology and the business model; • Scientific depth: engage in dialogue with scientists, translate science into business value; • Fundraising skills: pitch to investors, structure rounds, negotiate term sheets; • Leadership: attract and inspire teams, mentor founders; • Cultural intelligence: work across diverse cultures and regulatory environments.
Personal Qualities • Passion for creating from zero, comfort with uncertainty and risk; • Intellectual curiosity, ability to quickly immerse in new fields; • Resilience and ability to make difficult decisions; • Integrity and alignment with the values of European business culture; • Team spirit in working with scientists, entrepreneurs, and investors.
Nice to Have • Experience in the Swiss biotech ecosystem; • Network of contacts in the venture capital community (Europe, MENA, Africa); • Scientific publications, patents, or technology transfer experience; • Understanding of healthcare systems in low- and middle-income countries.
What We Offer • Competitive salary package in line with Swiss market standards; • Comprehensive benefits package, including pension plan (BVG/LPP); • 5 weeks of annual vacation (in accordance with Swiss legislation); • Opportunities for professional development and international travel; • Dynamic, mission-driven work environment; • Opportunity to make a meaningful impact on healthcare development in Switzerland, Europe, and Africa; • Modern office with flexible working arrangements.
Legal and Compliance Information • Work Authorization: Only candidates with valid Swiss work permits or EU/EFTA citizenship will be considered, unless exceptional qualifications justify work permit sponsorship; • Equal Opportunity: LifeDX is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees; • Data Protection: All personal data is processed in accordance with the Swiss Federal Act on Data Protection (FADP/DSG). By applying, you consent to the processing of your data for recruitment purposes.
