Dr. Christoph Benner

Associate Medical Writer at nspm ltd

Zurich, Switzerland

About

With a multidisciplinary background in aging science, clinical neuroscience, and organic chemistry, I’m passionate about making complex science accessible and actionable—especially in the context of drug development and medical innovation. My research has explored lipid metabolism, mitochondrial function, and healthspan extension, with a focus on therapeutic strategies for metabolic disorders. At the World Health Organization, I contributed to research on gut microbiota and aging, co-authored a scientific paper, and presented insights in high-level forums bridging clinical, scientific, and policy audiences. Alongside academic work, I’ve led communication-driven initiatives in emerging fields such as psychedelic science. As the founder of uniMIND Zürich, I organized journal clubs and an international symposium on psychedelic medicine, and was recognized as a finalist for the MIND Blog Post Award for multilingual science writing that engaged researchers, philosophers, and policymakers. I’m especially motivated by roles that connect science, communication, and policy—whether it's translating complex mechanisms into medical narratives, supporting informed decision-making in pharma, or driving public engagement with emerging therapies.

Experience

  • Associate Medical Writer at nspm ltd
    Jan 2024 - Present · 2 yrs 6 mos

  • Visiting Scholar at World Health Organization
    Sep 2023 - Jan 2024 · 5 mos

    Temporary Scientific Advisor, Ageing and Health Unit Led a full-cycle literature review on gut microbiota and intrinsic capacity across the life course, contributing to study design, critical synthesis of evidence, and co-authoring a peer-reviewed manuscript. Presented research concepts in WHO internal and external stakeholder meetings and collaborated across multidisciplinary, international teams to align scientific input with global health priorities.

  • PHD Student at ETH Zürich
    Jul 2018 - Mar 2023 · 4 yrs 9 mos

    Investigated ageing-related molecular pathways in C. elegans, identifying small molecules that extend health- and lifespan via autophagy modulation. Developed advanced expertise in mitochondrial metabolism analysis, applying high-resolution assays in both isolated mitochondria and live-cell models. Contributed experimental data in molecular biology and pharmacology to peer-reviewed publications on ageing, metabolism, and therapeutic targets.

  • Co-Founder and President of uniMIND Zürich at MIND European Foundation for Psychedelic Science
    Jul 2020 - Nov 2022 · 2 yrs 5 mos

    Chaired recurring interdisciplinary journal clubs on psychedelics in medicine, leading discussions on their therapeutic applications and philosophical implications for consciousness and the mind. Co-organized an international symposium at the University of Zurich, hosting 200+ participants and speakers across academic career stages. Authored multilingual blog articles and interviews for MIND, engaging academic and policy audiences on topics at the intersection of neuroscience, ethics, and consciousness; selected as a finalist for the MIND Blog Post Award.

  • ATAI Life Sciences AG (Part-time · 1 yr 7 mos)
    • Research and Development Consultant
      May 2021 - May 2022 · 1 yr 1 mo

      Conducted targeted literature reviews to profile the pharmacological activity of psychedelic compounds, informing lead selection and contributing to the development of mechanistic hypotheses for neuroplasticity and receptor signaling. Supported assay development at a contract research organization (CRO) by optimizing mitochondrial respiration protocols.

    • Business Development Consultant
      Nov 2020 - May 2021 · 7 mos

      Identified and engaged key opinion leaders (KOLs) and clinicians to support personalized treatment strategies and clinical development across platform companies.