Junior Accountant 60-80% (with long-term growth potential up to 100%)

Job description

The Botnar Institute of Immune Engineering (BIIE) is a new interdisciplinary research institute dedicated to innovation in immune engineering. Founded in 2024 through a generous endowment from Fondation Botnar, the BIIE supports scientists in taking on some of the world’s most challenging problems in immunology and global health. The institute unites experts across immunology, biomedicine, bioengineering, computational biology, artificial intelligence, and machine learning, creating a unique multidisciplinary environment with a mission to make a lasting impact and to train future leaders in immune engineering. We are seeking a Junior Accountant who supports the Finance Manager with day-to-day accounting, accurate recordkeeping, and timely financial reporting. This role is designed for an early-career professional who is detail-oriented, comfortable working with numbers, and eager to develop practical accounting skills. You will have the rare opportunity to influence how a finance department is set up for the future. Tasks Accounts payable and reimbursement process Handling incoming invoices and reimbursements: review, queries, and booking Maintaining an accurate supplier database Preparation of the weekly payment batch (includes manual payments) Bookkeeping Posting of daily transactions and routine journal entries in Abacus Maintain accurate accounting files and supporting documentation Assist with bank, vendor, and general ledger reconciliations, investigating and escalating differences Bookkeeping in accordance to Swiss Law Period-end and reporting Support quarter-end and year-end closing, including accruals, prepayments, and schedules Prepare basic financial reports, summaries, and analyses for the Finance Manager Organize documentation for audits, internal reviews, and compliance requirements Grants, projects, and process improvement Support grant- and project-related bookkeeping Contribute to improving finance processes and following internal controls Respond professionally to routine finance questions from suppliers and internal stakeholders Requirements A commercial apprenticeship (KV) is required. Ideally, you have completed — or are keen to pursue — further education in accounting or finance, e.g. Sachbearbeiter/in Rechnungswesen. 1–2 years of accounting, bookkeeping, or finance administration experience; motivated recent graduates may also be considered Solid grasp of double-entry bookkeeping, accounts payable and general ledger processes Basic knowledge of Swiss accounting principles Good working knowledge of Microsoft Excel, Google Workspace and basic knowledge in deploying AI tools. Experience with Abacus is a strong plus Strong attention to detail, accuracy, organization, and the ability to meet deadlines Excellent written and verbal communication skills in both German and English (mandatory) High level of integrity and discretion when handling confidential financial information Curiosity, reliability, and a genuine willingness to learn and take on more responsibility over time Benefits A collaborative, international team environment at a growing institute in Basel. Competitive compensation and benefits package. Flexible working arrangement with an immediate start. Real potential for long-term engagement as BIIE continues to grow.