Scientist, Strain Development

Location: Geneva, Switzerland | On site

At dsm-firmenich, we are passionate about scientific innovation and sustainable solutions in nutrition, health, and beauty.

As part of our Science and Research Biotechnology Group in Geneva, you will join a diverse, multidisciplinary team dedicated to discovery of the next generation of small molecule ingredients.

Your key responsibilities:

• Use advanced synthetic biology tools/molecular biology methods/next generation strain development tools to construct and optimize microorganisms for new molecule discovery and improved performance.
• Design, implement, operate and improve automated workflows for genomics, DNA assembly, strain construction, and high-throughput screening using advanced laboratory automation.
• Collaborate with automation experts and scientists globally to expand and troubleshoot robotic workflows; work with data scientist to automate data management, processing and analysis.
• Plan and execute experimental work, analyze data, and document results using electronic lab journals (ELNs).
• Present research findings in meetings and written reports, contributing to the team’s scientific excellence.

We offer:

• The opportunity to work at the forefront of sustainable ingredient development.
• Access to state-of-the-art research facilities and technologies.
• A collaborative, diverse, and innovative R&D environment.
• Opportunities for professional growth and impact in a socially and environmentally responsible company.

You bring:

• PhD in biotechnology, molecular biology, biochemistry, or a related field, with >2 years of relevant experience or equivalent qualifications.
• Strong background in synthetic biology, including laboratory automation.
• Hands-on expertise in high-throughput screening and analytical methods for small molecules.
• Sound understanding of chemical structures and biochemical pathways
• Experience with automation instruments, protocol programming, and workflow optimization.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively in interdisciplinary teams.
• Fluency in English is a must. If you are not already proficient in French, you should be willing to learn.
• A passion for scientific innovation and a drive to deliver impactful results in a collaborative environment.

About dsm-firmenich

At dsm-firmenich, we don’t just meet expectations – we go beyond them.

Join our global team powered by science, creativity, and a shared purpose: to bring progress to life.

From elevating health to making fortified food and sustainable skincare, the impact of your work here will be felt by millions – every single day. Whether it’s fragrance that helps you focus, alternative meat that’s better for the planet, or reducing sugar without losing flavor, this is where you help shape the future of nutrition, health, and beauty for everyone, everywhere.

And while you’re making a difference, we’ll make sure you’re growing too. With learning that never stops, a culture that lifts you up and the freedom to move across businesses, teams, and borders. Your voice matters here. And your ideas? They’re essential to our future. 

Because real progress only happens when we go beyond, together.

Inclusion, belonging and equal opportunity statement
At dsm-firmenich, we believe being a force for good starts with the way we treat each other. When people feel supported, included, and free to be themselves, they do their best work – and that’s exactly the kind of culture we’re building. A place where opportunity is truly equal, authenticity is celebrated, and everyone has the chance to grow, contribute, and feel they belong.
We’re proud to be an equal opportunity employer, and we’re serious about making our hiring process as fair and inclusive as possible. From inclusive language and diverse interview panels to thoughtful sourcing, we’re committed to reflecting the world we serve.

We welcome candidates from all backgrounds — no matter your gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or anything else that makes you, you.

And if you have a disability or need any support through the application process, we’re here to help – just let us know what you need, and we’ll do everything we can to make it work.

Agency statement:

We’re managing this search directly at dsm-firmenich. If you’re applying as an individual, we’d love to hear from you. We’re not accepting agency submissions or proposals involving fees or commissions for this role.