Director Oligonucleotide R&D (f/m/d), 100%

Bachem is a leading, innovation-driven company specializing in the development and manufacture of peptides and oligonucleotides. With over 50 years of experience and expertise Bachem provides products for research, clinical development and commercial application to pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies worldwide and offers a comprehensive range of services. Bachem operates internationally with headquarters in Switzerland and locations in Europe, the US and Asia. The company is listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange. For further information, see www.bachem.com.

To drive our continuous organic growth, we are constantly looking for highly qualified professionals. For our growing oligonucleotide business unit in Bubendorf (Switzerland), we are looking for a department head to strengthen our team in the further development of the oligonucleotide R&D organization.

In our new research laboratories, you will be responsible for the development and optimization of the manufacturing processes from synthesis to the final API in collaboration with our customers as well as internal research projects. You will lead a motivated team of several group leaders, chemists and laboratory technicians (24 employees currently) and will be able to rely on the latest equipment and technologies in your laboratories.

Your tasks:

• Planning, coordination, and oversight of
  • process development, characterization & transfer activities in collaboration with other departments and our customers
  • internal process transfers (scale-up) and support of production when introducing new processes under cGMP guidelines
  • the production of small product quantities for internal and external customers (non-GMP)
• Identification, evaluation and development of innovative technologies & new reagents/materials such as continuous purification (MCSGP) or stirred-bed synthesis technology (SBT)
• Working closely with our business development team, e.g. on cost estimations, proposals and customer discussions
• Representing Bachem during customer visits and at conferences and congresses, preparing and providing presentations when required
• Overseeing all process development & manufacturing activities within your department to ensure deadlines are met and projects are completed within the budget
• Maintaining a clean and safe work environment
• Lead, manage and develop your R&D team (personnel, equipment, new laboratories, etc.)

Your profile:

• PhD degree in chemistry or a related field
• A minimum of 6 years' experience leading a team, preferably in research & development
• A minimum of 8 years' experience in oligonucleotide chemistry, preferably in process development. Familiar with the applied oligonucleotide synthesis technologies and understanding the direction of next-generation technology development.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills (English, German is an advantage)
• Strong communication and organizational skills
• High level of flexibility, independence and ability to work in a team
• Detail oriented with the ability to troubleshoot and resolve problems

Our offer:

• A dynamic and rapidly growing work environment with internal development opportunities
• Flexible working hours with home office days and an option for obtaining additional vacation days through workload reduction
• Employee development through numerous internal and external training opportunities
• 60% coverage of pension fund contributions by Bachem AG as well as option for extra-mandatory pension provision with our Pension Plan Plus
• Access to the Swibeco benefits platform with discounts from external partners
• Fresh, healthy and varied food in our staff restaurant
• A wide range of free sports activities on the Bachem Campus

Would you like to drive innovation together with us?

We look forward to receiving your complete application documents via our application portal.

Learn more about the Bachem Group and get inspired by our exciting work environment at our location in Bubendorf!

We do not accept applications from recruitment agencies.