Scientist – Antibody & Nanobody Drug Discovery

Join Our Mission to Translate Cutting-Edge Research into Life-Changing Therapeutics

We (the group of Prof. Andreas Moor at the Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering of ETH Zurich, located in Basel) are currently seeking a visionary scientist to join our team and drive antibody and nanobody-based drug discovery (start immediately or by arrangement). This position is ideal for a researcher with a background in biotechnology, molecular biology, or related fields, who is eager to transform pioneering research into practical, patient-focused solutions. 

In this role, you will work at the convergence of fundamental research and translational development- advancing antibodies and nanobodies from early discovery toward therapeutic applications. Your responsibilities will include initial discovery, rigouros screening, and detailed characterization of novel protein binders aimed at disease-relevant targets, in an environment that values both scientific excellence and strategic application

We welcome candidates with a Master’s (MSc) or PhD in Biotechnology or a related field who are eager to apply their expertise to impactful challenges. Prior experience with protein engineering, display technologies (phage, yeast, or ribosome display), or cell-based assays is advantageous.

• Experimentation: Design and execute studies to develop and characterize novel antibodies and nanobodies.
• Optimization: Apply molecular biology and protein engineering techniques to enhance binders for affinity, specificity, and stability.
• Assay Development: Create and validate cell-based assays to assess therapeutic potential.
• Collaborative Innovation:  work alongside interdisciplinary teams, including clinical and industry experts, to advance discoveries from bench toward preclinical applications.
• Strategic Development: Contribute to initiatives related to technology transfer, intellectual property, and the evolution of our therapeutic pipeline.

Qualifications

• A Master's degree or PhD degree in the relevant field with a proven track record of hands-on experience in the workflows and protocols relevant for the position
• Excellent interpersonal skills and creativity, “out of the box” thinking
• Ability to operate under pressure and deliver results within specified timelines and budgets

Areas of technical expertise include

• Protein engineering
• Protein purification
• Fluorescent microscopy, flow cytometry, cell sorting
• ELISA and BLI assays
• Display assays (phage, yeast, or ribosome)
• Mammalian cell culture
• Regulatory experience or prior drug developement exposure is a plus
• Animal experimentation experience is a plus

This role is tailored for scientists who

• Are passionate about antibody and nanobody-based therapeutics.
• Aspire to see innovative research evolve into tangible clinical solutions.
• Value a collaborative setting where scientific inquiry meets strategic development (i.e. spinoffs, startups, and commercialization).
• Thrive in a dynamic environment that bridges discovery with practical impact. 

• Join a pioneering research team that is shaping the future of biotherapeutics.
• Gain hands-on experience in translational science and drug development.
• Collaborate in an interdisciplinary environment alongside academic and industry experts.
• Play a key role in developing intellectual property and fostering potential spinoff ventures.
• Embrace the challenge of advancing novel therapeutics from the lab to patient care.