Project Director (Venture Builder) 80%-100% CDI

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.