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 an experienced and entrepreneurial drug discovery leader to strengthen and expand our RNA-focused small molecule discovery efforts and support the launch of new portfolio companies.
The ideal candidate has a strong track record of leading and executing small molecule medicinal chemistry programs, with additional experience in RNA-targeted drug discovery considered a strong advantage.
The successful candidate will operate at the intersection of science and company-building, shaping pipeline strategy, building capabilities, and ensuring capital-efficient progression of programs from target identification through candidate nomination.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Define and execute RNA-focused small molecule discovery strategies.
- Lead medicinal chemistry efforts across hit-to-lead and lead optimization.
- Develop robust SAR strategies and data-driven decision frameworks.
- Advance structured RNA-targeting approaches, including collaboration on assay and structural biology development.
- Build and mentor a high-performing early research team.
- Drive scientific strategy and execution across RNA-focused early discovery programs, partnering closely with biology and translational teams.
- Manage and oversee CRO and external research partnerships.
- Contribute to scientific discussions related to asset progression and platform differentiation.
- Represent the company at scientific conferences, board meetings, and investor presentations.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
- PhD in Medicinal Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, or related discipline.
- 15+ years of pharmaceutical or biotech drug discovery experience.
- Proven track record of leading small molecule programs to candidate nomination.
- Experience in RNA-targeted small molecule discovery strongly preferred.
- Strong understanding of SAR strategy and synthetic chemistry.
- Familiarity with biophysical RNA-binding assays and structural biology.
- Strong understanding of intellectual property strategy and patent authorship.
PERSONAL PROFILE
- Entrepreneurial mindset and ability to operate in early-stage biotech environments.
- Strategic thinker with hands-on execution capability.
- Strong cross-functional collaborator and communicator.
- Decisive, data-driven, and outcome-oriented.
WHAT WE CURRENTLY OFFER
- People: We are an international, diverse, and highly collaborative team of talented, passionate, and science-driven individuals.
- Creativity: We offer an innovative and creative environment where new ideas are encouraged and cutting-edge science thrives.
- Development: We support the individual development of our employees.
- Impact & Entrepreneurship: Opportunity to help build and shape new biotech companies with direct impact on value creation.
- Innovation Platform: Opportunity to shape and expand a differentiated RNA-targeted discovery platform.
- Strategic Involvement: Direct involvement in key scientific and strategic decisions.
- 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.
To apply, please submit your completed application form along with your CV, cover letter, and reference letters.