Project Director / Project Directress

Project Overview

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, and 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 Qualifications

• 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; knowledge of African regulators (SAHPRA, NAFDAC) is an advantage.
• Fundraising: Proven experience conducting rounds from pre-seed to Series A.
• Languages: Fluent in English; German or French (B2) is a plus.
• Board Experience: Experience serving on Boards of Directors or as a startup advisor.

Core Competencies

• Entrepreneurial mindset: Ability to create from scratch and thrive in uncertain conditions.
• Systems thinking: Ability to understand both technology and business models.
• Scientific depth: Engaging in dialogue with scientists while translating science into business value.
• Fundraising skills: Proficient in pitching to investors, structuring rounds, and negotiating term sheets.
• Leadership: Ability to attract and inspire teams and mentor founders.
• Cultural intelligence: Skilled at working across diverse cultures and regulatory environments.

Personal Qualities

• Passion for creating from zero and comfort with uncertainty and risk.
• Intellectual curiosity, with the ability to quickly immerse in new fields.
• Resilience and the ability to make difficult decisions.
• Integrity and alignment with the values of European business culture.
• Team spirit in collaborating 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.
• A dynamic, mission-driven work environment.
• The chance 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 online using the form below, you consent to the processing of your data for recruitment purposes.