Junior Scientist / Scientist – Metabolic Disease Biology (1 year contract)

About us
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.

For one of our seed companies, we are looking for a Junior Scientist / Scientist to develop and execute cell-based assays in the field of metabolic diseases.

This is a highly hands-on role, with at least 80% of the position spent in the laboratory. The ideal candidate is a recent PhD graduate or early-career scientist who enjoys experimental work, assay development and troubleshooting.

The start date is as soon as possible (upon agreement). The position is offered on a fixed-term basis for approximately one year.

Responsibilities
Develop, optimize and execute robust cell-based assays and in vitro disease models
Culture and work with primary cells, particularly metabolically relevant models such as hepatocytes, adipocytes and pancreatic beta cells
Assess cellular responses using techniques including RT-qPCR, Western blot, ELISA, flow cytometry/FACS and imaging
Establish functional assays relevant to metabolic biology, such as lipid metabolism, insulin signaling, inflammation, mitochondrial function and cellular stress
Perform genetic or pharmacological target modulation using approaches such as siRNA, plasmids, viral vectors or CRISPR-Cas9, where required
Independently plan experiments, analyze and interpret data, and troubleshoot technical challenges
Maintain high-quality experimental documentation and communicate results in internal meetings
Contribute to general laboratory activities and collaborate closely with other members of the scientific team

Qualifications
PhD in metabolism, cell biology, physiology or a related field, ideally with research focused on metabolic disease
Strong understanding of metabolic biology, with experience in areas such as obesity, MASH/MASLD or diabetes
Hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture and primary cell models
Demonstrate ability to establish, optimize and troubleshoot cell-based assays
Experience with relevant molecular and cellular biology techniques, such as RT-qPCR, Western blot, ELISA, flow cytometry and/or imaging
Experience with functional metabolic assays is highly desirable
Experience with biologics, therapeutic target validation or genetic manipulation techniques is an advantage
Strong experimental and problem-solving skills, with attention to quality and reproducibility
Able to work independently while contributing effectively to a collaborative team

What we currently offer
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.