Associate Specialist Functional Microbiome

Location: Vers-chez-les-Blanc, Switzerland
Work model: On site / Full time
Contract type / duration: Limited contract until 31.12.2027

Shape the future through scientific breakthroughs and innovation.

As an Associate Specialist Functional Microbiome at Nestlé Research, your mission is to advance research on microbial metabolites and translate functional microbiome science into meaningful business applications. You’ll make a difference by collaborating closely with scientists, technicians, research assistants, innovation partners and external experts across microbiome, metabolomics, immunology and related fields. 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 an Associate Specialist Functional Microbiome

• Developing research that deepens understanding of microbial metabolites and their role in microbiome-host interactions.


• Translating scientific insights into nutrition, health and petcare applications with business relevance.


• Strengthening scientific approaches that move microbiome research from correlations toward causal understanding.


• Building cross-functional collaboration with internal research teams, technical experts and innovation partners.


• Expanding external scientific networks to identify emerging methods, partners and breakthrough opportunities.


• Sharing high-quality scientific outputs through publications, presentations and clear communication with key stakeholders.

What will make you successful

• Bringing a PhD and recognized scientific expertise in biochemistry, microbiology or metabolism, with a strong focus on microbial metabolites in microbiome-host interactions.


• Applying systems biology, metabolomics and functional microbiome knowledge to generate actionable research insights.


• Using project leadership, stakeholder management and results focus to deliver high-quality research outcomes.

• Collaborating proactively across scientific disciplines while communicating complex ideas with clarity and influence.


• Communicating fluently in English.

• Bringing collaboration, fresh thinking, bold questions, respect, and a positive, wellbeing-oriented mindset.

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 an interview with Talent Acquisition, an interview with the hiring team, and a final discussion and offer. Depending on the role, a video assessment may be included. 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.

While we already have a strong succession plan for this role, all internal candidates whose skills most closely align with the role’s requirements will be considered. Please discuss your application with your HR Business Partner and line manager before applying.

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.