What to Expect in the Next Half of 2025: Life Sciences Recruitment Outlook for Switzerland, Netherlands, and Belgium

Recovery Momentum Building Across the Region

The encouraging news is that hiring activity is genuinely picking up across all three markets. Switzerland continues to demonstrate remarkable resilience, with scientist vacancies up 4.7% in 2025, driven primarily by pharmaceutical R&D expansion. Basel remains the crown jewel, with hiring forecast to grow 8.6% this year, bolstered by attractive tax incentives and continued international investment.

In the Netherlands, the biotech ecosystem is experiencing renewed energy following a challenging 2023. Dutch biotech venture financing grew by 10% in 2024, and this momentum is translating into increased hiring demand as companies like Citryll, iOnctura, and VICO Therapeutics leverage their substantial funding rounds to expand their teams. The government’s commitment of €1.3 billion to make the Netherlands a global biotech leader by 2040 is already creating ripple effects throughout the talent market.Belgium’s pharmaceutical sector, anchored by giants like UCB and argenx, is seeing steady recruitment growth, particularly in commercial and regulatory roles. The country’s strategic position at the heart of Europe, combined with its strong research infrastructure, continues to attract both established pharmaceutical companies and emerging biotechs seeking European headquarters.

 

Quality and Regulatory Affairs Leading the Charge

Quality Assurance, validation, and regulatory affairs roles are experiencing the highest demand - Companies across all three markets are prioritising compliance expertise as they prepare for upcoming product launches and navigate increasingly complex regulatory environments. In Switzerland particularly, the synergy between Swissmedic’s leadership in the Access Consortium and industry needs is creating substantial opportunities for regulatory professionals.

Commercial and Medical Affairs Expansion

We’re witnessing a clear shift toward later-stage commercial roles. As biotech companies mature and approach market readiness, there’s growing demand for commercial excellence, medical affairs, and market access professionals. This trend is particularly pronounced in the Netherlands, where the concentration of life sciences companies around Leiden and Amsterdam is creating competitive hiring dynamics for commercial talent.

Manufacturing and CDMO Growth

Switzerland is expecting significant uptick in manufacturing hiring, particularly in the CDMO space. The combination of global supply chain considerations, “reshoring” trends, and Switzerland’s established manufacturing excellence is driving this demand. Belgium is experiencing similar growth, with several international companies establishing or expanding manufacturing operations to serve the European market.

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The Talent Shortage Reality Check

Let’s address the elephant in the room: the life sciences sector remains approximately 35% short of required talent. This shortage is most acute in specialised areas like:

- Digital and AI expertise - 43% of pharmaceutical companies report lacking digital literacy skills among candidates
- Gene editing and cell therapy - The fastest-growing therapeutic areas with the smallest talent pools
- Regulatory affairs with European expertise - Particularly valuable as companies navigate post-Brexit and evolving EU regulations

The average time to fill specialized roles has risen to 78 days - an 18-day increase from previous years. This extended timeline reflects both talent scarcity and more rigorous hiring processes as companies become increasingly selective.

Contract vs. Permanent: The Flexibility Imperative

Contract hiring continues to outpace permanent recruitment across the region. Companies are maintaining runway consciousness, preferring the flexibility of contract arrangements while they navigate market uncertainties. However, this creates opportunity - skilled contractors are commanding premium rates, particularly in Switzerland where the market can support higher compensation levels.

Statement of Work (SOW) arrangements are emerging as a strategic solution, allowing companies to access specialised expertise with defined outcomes and fixed timelines. This model is particularly attractive for regulatory submissions, clinical operations, and specialised consulting projects.

 

‪What Companies Should Prioritise in H2 2025‬

‪The complexity of today’s market demands expertise. Companies working with specialised life sciences recruiters like Panda International are accessing passive talent pools and reducing time-to-hire through targeted search strategies.‬

The stage is set for gradual improvement in late 2025. Companies that have weathered the storm are now recognising they must deliver on milestones - which requires hiring key team members.

As we navigate the remainder of 2025, one thing is certain: the life sciences industry’s mission to improve human health continues unabated. The question is whether your organisation will have the talent needed to be part of that mission’s next chapter.

Get in touch with us today - we’d love to explore your hiring goals and tailor a recruitment strategy that fits your vision.