Associate Director, ADC Technologies

RedRidge Bio is a recently launched biotech within the Ridgeline Discovery incubator in Basel. We are dedicated to identifying and developing novel, transformative therapies for the treatment of cancer and autoimmune diseases. Join our highly engaged team and help us build the next wave of differentiated Antibody-Drug Conjugates (ADCs).

We are seeking a visionary expert in ADC technologies to join our team as an Associate Director. As the lead ADC expert, you will "own the key" to how we arm our antibodies. You will drive our ADC platform strategy—from the design and synthesis of linker-payloads to final conjugation—ensuring every clinical candidate possesses an optimal therapeutic profile.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Serve as the primary subject matter expert (SME) to define and execute RedRidge Bio’s ADC technology roadmap.
• Evaluate and integrate "next-gen" technologies, including dual-payload ADCs, novel linker chemistries, and site-specific conjugation methods to ensure a competitive and differentiated portfolio.

2. Technical Design & Optimization

• Lead the selection of linker-payload combinations and conjugation approaches to optimize product homogeneity and DAR stability.
• Conduct SAR analysis to refine chemistry, balancing systemic stability with efficient intracellular drug release.

3. Cross-Functional Integration and stakeholder management

• Partner with antibody engineers and biologists to align technology development with project timelines and disease targets.
• Collaborate with IP counsel on patent drafting and Freedom to Operate (FTO) assessments.
• Communicate scientific milestones and program risks to the Executive Leadership Team and Scientific Advisory Board.

4. External R&D & Partner Management

• Identify and manage CROs specializing in complex organic synthesis and bioconjugation.
• Provide technical oversight for external execution, ensuring analytical rigor (HIC, SEC, LC-MS) to guarantee material quality and consistency.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry, Chemical Biology, Biochemistry, or related field
• 8+ years of experience in pharma or biotech, with a primary focus on ADC development.
• Proven track record in advancing ADC programs from initial design through clinical candidate selection.
• Strategic leader with experience defining technology roadmaps, guiding cross-functional teams, and driving innovation in next-generation ADCs.
• Expert in linker-payload chemistry, bioconjugation methodologies including site-specific conjugation, with hands-on experience in SAR analysis, DAR optimization, and analytical characterization (HIC, SEC, LC-MS, other).
• Experienced in managing CROs and external R&D partnerships, ensuring quality, consistency, and alignment with program goals.
• Familiar with intellectual property strategy, including patent drafting and Freedom to Operate assessments.
• Entrepreneurial mindset, collaborative, and communicative, able to convey scientific insights and program risks effectively to leadership and stakeholders.
• Fluent in written and spoken English.

WHAT WE CURRENTLY OFFER

• People: We are an international and diverse team with talented and passionate people.
• Creativity: We offer an innovative and creative environment.
• Development: We support the individual development of our employees.
• Fun: From time-to-time we organise cool off-site summer and winter team events.
• Offices: Our well-equipped laboratories and offices are located at the Tech Park, a premier address for early-stage start-ups in Basel.
• Commuter Benefits: We support our employees tailored to their personal needs in commuting to work and offer parking facilities or a commuter contribution.
• Flexible Working: We support flexible working as appropriate.
• Christmas Closure: In addition to the 24 holidays per year, our offices/labs are closed between Christmas and New Year.
• Birthday Retreat: On top of that, your birthday is your personal holiday - our employees enjoy their birthday with a day off.
• Food: We like get-togethers during lunch time. Enjoy tasty, subsidised meals from our FELFEL food fridge.
• Coffee: Meet up with your colleagues and grab free coffee.

To apply, please submit your completed application form along with your CV, cover letter, and reference letters (Arbeitszeugnisse).