Associate Specialist Functional Microbiome

About the role

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.

Key responsibilities

• Develop research that deepens understanding of microbial metabolites and their role in microbiome‑host interactions.
• Translate scientific insights into nutrition, health and pet‑care applications with business relevance.
• Strengthen scientific approaches that move microbiome research from correlations toward causal understanding.
• Build cross‑functional collaboration with internal research teams, technical experts and innovation partners.
• Expand external scientific networks to identify emerging methods, partners and breakthrough opportunities.
• Share high‑quality scientific outputs through publications, presentations and clear communication with key stakeholders.

Required profile

• PhD and recognized scientific expertise in biochemistry, microbiology or metabolism, with a strong focus on microbial metabolites in microbiome‑host interactions.
• Ability to apply systems biology, metabolomics and functional microbiome knowledge to generate actionable research insights.
• Experience in project leadership, stakeholder management and results focus to deliver high‑quality research outcomes.
• Proactive collaboration across scientific disciplines and clear communication of complex ideas.
• Fluency in English.
• Collaborative, fresh thinking, bold questions, respect, and a positive, wellbeing‑oriented mindset.

Required skills

• Systems biology
• Metabolomics