We are looking for a highly motivated and talented lab technician to join our team at the VIB-UGent Center for Inflammation Research which is focused on understanding the biology of the liver in health, disease (fibrosis, liver metastasis) and regeneration. The selected candidate will join the young and motivated international team of scientists of Prof. Martin Guilliams and will work alongside 3 PhD students and 6 postdocs, 3 wet-lab technicians and 2 computational experts.
This role involves working closely with a postdoctoral researcher on an ambitious project focused on the development of in vivo CRISPR screens. Therefore, we require a team player with the ability to work independently while optimizing the challenging steps in the in vivo CRISPR pipeline. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in both in vivo and in vitro experimental techniques, with significant experience working with mice.
Key Responsibilities
- Collaborate with a postdoctoral researcher to develop and optimize in vivo CRISPR pipelines.
- Perform in vivo experiments, including the handling, care, and manipulation of mice.
- Conduct in vitro experiments to support in vivo studies, including the culturing of challenging cells such as stem cells.
- Execute a variety of wet lab experiments, including molecular biology techniques like PCR, qPCR, and Western blotting.
- Process mouse tissues (e.g., liver digestion and cell isolation), followed by downstream techniques such as flow cytometry, confocal microscopy, and histology.
- Perform viral transductions and other genetic editing techniques.
- Maintain detailed and accurate records of experimental procedures, data, and results.
- Ensure compliance with all institutional and federal guidelines for animal care and use.
- Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues that arise during experiments.
- Contribute to a collaborative and productive team environment, participating in regular team meetings and discussions.
- Adapt to the dynamic needs of the project, demonstrating flexibility and a proactive approach to problem-solving.
Profile
Essential
- Bachelor’s degree (or higher) in biomedical, biochemical, biotechnological techniques or animal care (or related)
- FELASA B/C certificate, or willingness to obtain the certificate on time
- Fluent in English, for both written and oral communication
- Experience with in vitro work
- Experience in molecular techniques such as PCRs and qPCRs
- Experience working with mice including intravenous and intraperitoneal injections.
- Knowledge of working in a lab (health and safety)
- Previous experience working in a lab (placements during degree studies are sufficient)
- Basic computer skills (text processing, spreadsheet, presentations)
- Enthusiastic team player
Desirable but not required
- Experience in culturing stem cells
- Experience with cell transfection techniques (particularly viral transductions).
- Basic understanding of immunology
- Basic understanding of flow cytometry and confocal microscopy
Key personal characteristics
- You are enthusiastic and curious about scientific research
- You like learning new techniques and want to stay at the technological forefront
- You are willing to participate in the general lab organisation
- You can work well in a team and independently
- You are accurate and critical of your work and its implementation
- You have a strong ability to multi-task and meet deadlines
- You enjoy other cultures and are respectful of others and their different ideas/opinions
We offer
- The ability to work on scientifically exceptional and high-impact research topics
- Full or part-time (80%) appointment as a laboratory technician at VIB/UGent, a highly ranked research institute with a competitive pay scale and benefits (health insurance, sports facilities)
- A permanent position after an initial trial period
- A stimulating and supportive international research environment (with English as the main language)
- State-of-the-art infrastructure
- A varied work schedule, with significant autonomy over how you plan your day
- An ability to progress in your work, taking on more technical and challenging tasks as you grow in your role
- The job is available immediately, and the starting date is negotiable
- Various training opportunities to broaden your skills
How to apply?
Motivated candidates are asked to apply online or by mail to [email protected]. Additional requirements:
- Please upload your full CV
- Please upload a motivation letter
- Please add the contact details of at least two references