Bioanalytical Scientist / Research Associate (Large Molecule Bioanalysis)
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.
We are seeking a highly motivated Bioanalytical Scientist / Research Associate to support the development and execution of bioanalytical strategies for large molecule therapeutics. The successful candidate will play a key role in establishing, developing, qualifying, validating, troubleshooting, and overseeing immunoassays used to support preclinical and clinical studies. This position combines hands‑on laboratory work with external study coordination, requiring close collaboration with contract research organizations (CROs), project teams, and cross‑functional stakeholders. The ideal candidate is scientifically rigorous, highly organized, and experienced in bioanalytical support for complex biologic modalities.
Key Responsibilities
Bioanalytical Assay Development & Validation
- Design, develop, optimize, qualify, and validate bioanalytical methods for large molecule therapeutics.
- Establish, develop, and perform immunoassays, including ligand‑binding assays (LBAs) such as ELISA, MSD/ECL, Gyrolab, and related platforms.
- Lead assay troubleshooting, root‑cause investigations, and implementation of corrective actions.
- Generate robust bioanalytical data to support pharmacokinetic (PK), immunogenicity (ADA/NAb), and biomarker assessments.
- Ensure assays are fit‑for‑purpose and compliant with applicable regulatory guidance and industry best practices.
- Contribute to the scientific interpretation of bioanalytical data and preparation of study reports.
- Analyze, document, and communicate experimental results clearly and accurately.
- Maintain relevant laboratory documentation, assay procedures, and validation records.
CRO Management & External Collaboration
- Serve as the bioanalytical point of contact for external CRO partners.
- Coordinate assay transfer, method development, qualification, validation, and sample analysis activities conducted by CROs.
- Review study protocols, validation plans, data packages, and final reports.
- Monitor study timelines, deliverables, data quality, and regulatory compliance.
- Collaborate with internal project teams to ensure timely delivery of bioanalytical support across programs.
- Provide scientific oversight of outsourced bioanalytical activities and contribute to vendor selection and performance evaluation.
Qualifications
Education
- MSc in Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Immunology, or a related field with relevant industry experience; or PhD in a relevant scientific discipline.
Experience
- 3+ years (Research Associate) or 5+ years (Scientist) of relevant experience in bioanalysis of large molecule therapeutics within biotechnology, pharmaceutical, or contract research laboratory environments.
- Proven hands‑on experience developing, qualifying, validating, overseeing, and troubleshooting immunoassays.
- Experience supporting pharmacokinetic, immunogenicity, and biomarker bioanalysis programs.
- Experience managing outsourced bioanalytical activities and working effectively with CROs.
Technical Skills
- Strong expertise in ligand‑binding assays and immunoassay platforms (ELISA, MSD/ECL, Gyrolab, or equivalent).
- Familiarity with regulatory expectations and guidance for bioanalytical method validation.
- Strong data analysis, interpretation, and scientific reporting skills.
- Experience working in GxP‑regulated environments is an advantage.
- Experience with MS applications for complex therapeutic modalities is considered a plus
Personal Attributes
- Hands‑on, proactive, and solution‑oriented scientist.
- Strong troubleshooting and problem‑solving capabilities.
- Excellent organizational and project coordination skills.
- Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively across internal and external teams.
- Capable of managing multiple priorities in a dynamic environment.