(Senior) Research Associate

SERAC Biosciences AG is looking for a (Senior) Research Associate, Cell Biology and Targeted Protein Degradation

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 our portfolio company SERAC Biosciences AG, we are looking for a highly motivated (Senior) Research Associate. The successful candidate will have experience in cell biology and targeted protein degradation. She/he will be a highly motivated and enthusiastic team player with proven organizational skills, and strong scientific background to impact early and late-stage development projects. This Basel based position offers a tremendous opportunity to support our portfolio companies in an experienced, vibrant, and dynamic biotech team.

Key RESPONSIBILITIES

• Perform cell-based studies to support the identification, validation and differentiation of small molecule protein degraders.
• Implement a wide variety of medium to high throughput screening workflows including reporter and small molecules, as well as CRISPR/Cas9 (pooled and arrayed).
• Support both routine research activities and more in-depth profiling studies by performing cell-based genetic engineering (i.e. lentiviral, CRISPR KO/KI), flow cytometry, degradation assays, cellular signaling analysis (i.e. ELISA, HTRF, BRET/FRET etc.), western blotting/ Jess.
• Develop novel and state of the art semi- or fully-automated cell assay formats.
• Independently design, conduct, and summarize data for key experiments to progress projects. Troubleshoot and implement solutions when required.
• Maintain thorough documentation and written records of experimental and data in lab notebooks and communicate results in a clear/concise manner in internal meetings.
• Contribute to laboratory general organization and maintenance, manage laboratory stocks and ordering.
• Understand and integrate the current literature surrounding TPD and specific targets of interest.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Master/Bachelor’s degree in biology, biochemistry, biotechnology, or related field, or laboratory apprenticeship with relevant drug discovery experience in biotech or pharma.
• Extensive experience with mammalian cell culture and aseptic techniques is required.
• Working experience in multicolor flow cytometry/ cell sorting, molecular biology (PCR, qPCR, gel electrophoresis), targeted protein degradation (glue, PROTACs and related) and/or automation (high throughput screening, semi-automated liquid handling systems) is a plus.
• Must be highly independent, able to work well in a highly collaborative team-oriented environment. Capable of thriving and multi-tasking in a fast-paced “start-up” environment.
• Self-motivated, willingness to learn, strong work ethic, attention to detail, organizational skills, and excellent communication skills are also required for this position.
• Proficiency in utilizing general and specialized software such as Powerpoint, Microsoft office, Prism, ELN etc., for data analysis and figure generation.
• Fluency in English required.

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.
• Coffee: Meet up with your colleagues and grab free coffee.

To apply, please send us this application form together with your CV and Cover Letter. Closing date: 5th July 2025.