Max Schmitz PhD in Molecular Biology | Commercial, Medical, and R&D Recruitment Specialist
Talent Acquisition Consultant at headcount
meet Max
With a background in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, I bring scientific understanding into the recruitment process. I enjoy translating complex scientific profiles into hiring decisions, helping companies look beyond keywords and focus on the people who can make the biggest impact.
I work across Switzerland and the DACH region, partnering with companies building strong teams and professionals looking to make a real impact. My approach is direct, honest, and focused on long-term fit rather than volume.
at a glance
Roles I recruit for
- Sales Manager
- Key Account Manager
- Account Manager
- Commercial Lead
- Director of Sales
- Senior Scientist
- Principal Scientist
- Head of R&D
- Medical Science Liaison (MSL)
- Medical Director
Industries I serve
I work with companies across the life sciences sector, particularly within:
- Biotech
- Pharma
- MedTech
Experience highlights
My background combines a PhD in Molecular Biology and a Master’s in Biochemistry with specialist recruitment for scaling biotech and pharma companies. This allows me to understand both the science behind the role and the people behind the CV.
my approach
Industry knowledge
My academic background, including a Master’s in Biochemistry and a PhD in Molecular Biology, helps me understand the science behind the roles I recruit for. It allows me to speak credibly with candidates and hiring managers, assess technical profiles with more confidence, and understand why precision matters so much in life science hiring.
It also helps me recognise the difference between a profile that looks right on paper and someone who genuinely understands the science, the environment, and the challenges behind the role.
My philosophy
I work directly and honestly, focusing on fit rather than volume. For me, good recruitment starts with understanding what a client really needs, then finding a solution that makes sense for the role, the team, and the business.
I moved into recruitment because I wanted to combine my scientific background with something more social. I enjoy speaking with inspiring people and being part of the bigger impact they create.
behind the profile
Outside work, you’ll usually find me watching baseball, playing basketball, or spending time with friends and enjoying a good drink by one of the lakes.
My superpower is being a social team player and helping create an awesome vibe.
And my unpopular opinion? Culture and drive over skill, any day of the week.
currently recruiting for
For employers
For job seekers
Let's connect
Life science recruitment at headcount
permanent recruitment
Max is part of headcount’s permanent recruitment team, supporting biotech, pharma, medtech, and digital health companies with long-term hiring needs across the life sciences industry.
The permanent recruitment team focuses on specialist and hard-to-fill positions where technical understanding, strong networks, and the right long-term fit matter. From research and development through to manufacturing, commercial, and operational functions, the team supports companies in building stable, high-performing teams for long-term growth.