Lab Manager (Structural Biology Research)

Location : Brussels | Start date : as soon as possible

About the lab

The Brunner Lab at the focuses on understanding the structure and function of membrane proteins, with particular interest in lipid transporters, ion channels, and synaptic vesicle transporters. By combining state-of-the-art cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) with biochemical, biophysical and cell biological approaches, we investigate fundamental mechanisms of membrane biology and disease.

About the role

To support the day-to-day operation of our research lab, we are looking for an enthusiastic and highly organized Lab Manager .

You will play a central role in ensuring that the lab operates efficiently and effectively, combining responsibilities in lab management with hands-on research technician support. 

You will work closely with students and postdoctoral scientists, enabling them to focus on cutting-edge research by providing operational, technical and organizational support.

You will:

• coordinate and organize lab operations and logistics
• be responsible for ordering and stock-keeping of lab supplies
• prepare and maintain commonly used lab reagents
• coordinate routine maintenance, servicing and troubleshooting of lab equipment
• onboard and train new lab members on safety procedures and equipment
• provide technical support to researchers across multiple projects, contributing to a collaborative scientific environment
• help implement new lab workflows, protocols and best practices
• perform maintenance of mammalian cell cultures (HEK cells) to support ongoing research, when needed
• participate in scientific projects where appropriate, depending on experience and interest

Your profile

We are looking for a motivated and proactive colleague who enjoys working in a dynamic research environment.

Essential:

• You possess a Bachelor's degree or higher in Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Biology, Biomedical Sciences, Industrial Engineering, or a related life sciences discipline
• Strong organizational and planning skills, with excellent attention to detail
• A proactive, service-minded and self-motivated attitude
• Strong managing skills to combine lab organization with technical work.
• Experience with lab equipment maintenance and troubleshooting
• Hands-on experience with molecular biology and protein biochemistry
• You like to work in a team and get energy from supporting colleagues, you are passionate about science and enthusiastic to be part of a dynamic research lab.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Good command of spoken and written English

Desirable, but not required:

• Previous experience in a lab management, research support or research technician role
• Experience with basic mammalian cell culture techniques
• Interest in structural biology or biophysical techniques

Our offer

• A stimulating role in an international and highly collaborative research environment that values openness, diversity and inclusion
• A key role within a growing and ambitious research team
• Access to state-of-the-art research infrastructure and technologies, through VIB’s Core Facilities
• Opportunities for professional and technical skills development
• Exposure to cutting-edge technologies in structural biology, biochemistry, and cryo-EM
• Opportunity to contribute to research projects and make a lasting impact on science, health, and society
• A competitive salary and benefits package
• Start date: as soon as possible

How to Apply

Please submit your application using the online form (). Your application should include:

• A motivation letter outlining your interest in the position
• Your curriculum vitae
• Contact details of two professional references

Interested candidates are invited to apply as soon as possible. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

In case of questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to [email protected] .

More information

VIB is a leading life sciences research institute in Flanders, Belgium. Through strategic partnerships with Flemish universities, VIB combines fundamental and applied research in a highly collaborative environment and translates scientific discoveries into societal and economic impact.

The VIB-VUB Center for Structural Biology is affiliated with the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) and brings together internationally recognized research groups with expertise in protein biochemistry, membrane biology, protein design, nanobody technology, cryo-EM, X-ray crystallography, NMR spectroscopy and biophysics.