Scientist / Analytical Chemist

Join Baxiva and help shape the future of bacterial vaccines

Baxiva is a biotechnology startup developing next-generation glycoconjugate vaccines to prevent infections caused by Gram-negative bacterial pathogens. Our lead vaccine candidate targets Escherichia coli, the leading cause of urinary tract infections worldwide, and a major contributor to antimicrobial resistance. Backed by cutting-edge science and operating in Schlieren and on ETH Zurich’s Hönggerberg campus, Baxiva offers a unique opportunity to contribute to high-impact science with real-world clinical potential.

Your role

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Scientist / Analytical Chemist to develop the analytical backbone of our glycoconjugate vaccine program. You will lead the design and development of assays that define the composition, structure, and purity of vaccine components and conjugates. This is a hands-on, independent role with close collaboration across the R&D team and external partners.

Your main responsibilities will include:

• Developing and executing analytical assays for vaccine components.
• Applying and integrating techniques such as HPLC and mass spectrometry.
• Establishing reference standards and phase-appropriate method qualification; writing SOPs and reports.
• Collaborating with internal teams (vaccine development and carrier protein) and building relationships with external partners for key analytical methods.
• Contributing to early CMC documentation as the program advances.

Your profile

We’re looking for someone who takes initiative, delivers high-quality results, and enjoys tackling complex problems in a collaborative team to deliver real world impact.

You bring:

• A PhD in Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical/Biological Engineering, or related field.
• Demonstrated hands-on experience developing and running analytical methods for complex biological molecules or assemblies. Experience with glycan/polysaccharide analysis is a strong plus.
• Familiarity with analytical methods (e.g. HPLC, MS, NMR) and comfort developing new techniques.
• Strong documentation and organizational skills; ability to work independently and to partner effectively with internal and external collaborators.
• Advantageous: experience with bacteriophage-derived VLPs and/or an understanding of phase-appropriate CMC requirements.
• Excellent communication skills and proficiency in English

We offer

We're a small, agile team of motivated scientists working in a friendly, collaborative environment where everyone contributes their own experience and expertise. We believe that science is most productive in an environment of open exchange, trust, and collaboration. We are committed to supporting the personal and professional growth of each team member.

Curious? So are we

We look forward to receiving your application. Please include the following documents:

• CV
• A short statement (not more than 1 page) outlining your relevant experience and motivation.

Further information about Baxiva and the Mucosal Immunology lab can be found on our websites https://slacklab.ethz.ch/ and https://Baxiva.com.