Research Assistant in Fermentation

Location: Lausanne, Switzerland
Work model: On-site / Full-time
Contract type / duration: Permanent
Shape the future through scientific breakthroughs and innovation.
As a Research Assistant in Fermentation at Nestlé Research, your mission is to design and deliver fermentation experiments that advance applied microbiology research and help translate scientific insights across scales. You’ll make a difference by collaborating closely with scientists, technicians, students, and internal stakeholders. This is your opportunity to turn ideas into sustainable and innovative solutions for people, pets, and the planet.
How you’ll make an impact as a Research Assistant in Fermentation
• Designing and delivering laboratory experiments that advance fermentation research across diverse microorganisms and bioreactor systems.
• Translating scientific insights across fermentation scales to strengthen the path from research to practical application.
• Developing and implementing fermentation technologies that expand research capabilities and improve experimental outcomes.
• Maintaining reliable fermentation equipment and robust laboratory practices to support safe, high-quality research.
• Coaching technicians and students to build capability, encourage knowledge sharing, and strengthen team performance.
• Communicating clear, actionable results that help internal stakeholders make informed research decisions.
What will make you successful
• Bringing strong applied knowledge of microbiology, biotechnology, and fermentation science.
• Applying hands-on expertise with laboratory-scale bioreactor systems and fermentation processes.
• Using knowledge of industrial-scale fermentation and downstream processing to connect research with broader applications.
• Collaborating effectively in interdisciplinary teams with a proactive, innovative, and clear communication style.
• Communicating fluently in English; French is an advantage.
• Bringing collaboration, fresh thinking, bold questions, respect, and a positive, wellbeing-oriented mindset.
At Nestlé Research, we place people at the core of everything we do.
Our benefits are designed to support your growth and wellbeing, so you can thrive at work and in life:
• Flexible working options, including hybrid work possibilities (for office based roles)
• Paid holidays beyond legal requirements
• Learning and development opportunities to grow your career
• Performance based bonus
• Healthcare contribution and access to the Employee Assistance Program
• Strong employer contribution to your pension plan
• Generous parental leave and comprehensive family support solutions
• Attractive employee discounts across various products and services
What to expect from our hiring process
We are committed to an inclusive and respectful hiring experience and are happy to provide reasonable accommodations if needed. Our workplaces are fully accessible and supported by a strong safety culture, with modern installations and procedures to ensure a safe environment for everyone.
The hiring process typically includes a video interview with Talent Acquisition, an interview with the hiring team, and a final discussion and offer. We review applications as they are received and close the role once a strong list of relevant candidates is identified, so we encourage you to apply early. All information is treated confidentially.
Stay vigilant: Nestlé will only contact candidates via official company email addresses and will never ask for payments or sensitive personal information at any stage of the hiring process.
Ready to #BreakthroughTogether?
Apply now and shape the future through scientific breakthroughs and innovation.