Associate Specialist Protein

JobsCloseBy Editorial Insights

Nestlé Research is seeking an Associate Specialist Proteins in Vers-chez-les-Blanc, Switzerland, for a two-year contract with flexible work. You will build expertise in protein science to advance dairy and alternative proteins, lead laboratory experiments, and develop concepts translating into consumer products. To succeed, hold a PhD in Food Science or related field with at least three years in protein science, strong biochemistry knowledge, and proven project management and communication skills in English. You should feel comfortable sharing findings across sites and mentoring others. Apply early with a concise CV that highlights concrete impact, tailored to protein science and product relevance, plus cross-site collaboration and mentoring examples; the process includes video and team interviews.

Location: Vers-chez-les-Blanc, Switzerland
Work model: Hybrid / Full time
Contract type / duration: 2 years limited contract

Shape the future through scientific breakthroughs and innovation.

As an Associate Specialist Proteins at Nestlé Research, your mission is to build scientific competence and novel insights on the techno-functionality, biochemistry and application of dairy and alternative proteins. You’ll make a difference by collaborating closely with multidisciplinary project teams, product technology centers, expert networks, innovation partners, suppliers, universities and research institutes. 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 Proteins

• Building scientific expertise in protein science  to strengthen the innovation pipeline.
• Developing robust scientific concepts that can be tested and applied in food and nutrition products.
• Leading research activities in protein science and sharing results clearly with scientific and business audiences.
• Designing and delivering laboratory experiments that generate actionable insights for development projects.
• Transferring protein science knowledge across teams and sites to support product launches and project success.
• Contributing to external scientific visibility through publications, patents, lectures and expert collaborations.

What will make you successful

• Bringing a PhD in Food Science, Food Chemistry, Food Engineering or a related field, with strong knowledge of protein  biochemistry, technology and functionality.
• Applying at least three years of experience in protein science to translate science and technology into consumer benefits and business-relevant concepts.
• Using project management, communication and presentation skills to move scientific work forward with clarity and impact.
• Collaborating proactively across teams, sites and expert networks while supporting knowledge sharing and mentoring.
• Communicating fluently in English.

• 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.

#nestlecareerswitzerland