Lab Technician

Profile

We are seeking a highly motivated and enthusiastic lab technician to join our teams at the VIB-UGent Center for Inflammation Research , where we investigate the biology and function of immune cells in the urinary tract and beyond. The successful candidate will divide their time between two teams, spending 80% in the laboratory of Dr. Katarzyna Jobin and 20% in the VIB BioImaging Core. Both teams are located within the same building, facilitating close collaboration and seamless integration. The candidate will become part of a dynamic, young, and international research environment, working closely with PhD students, postdoctoral researchers, and other members of the scientific teams.

A major component of the work in Dr. Jobin’s laboratory will involve intravital imaging of the immune system using two-photon microscopy. The candidate will therefore be trained to perform surgical procedures on anesthetized mice and to independently set up, operate, and troubleshoot two-photon microscopy experiments. This will include image acquisition and analysis, as well as keeping up to date with new technological developments and applications in the field of two-photon imaging.

In the remaining time, the candidate will also contribute to a range of animal experiments involving mice. Responsibilities will include infections (BSL2), injections, and monitoring of the animals, as well as assisting with the maintenance and management of the mouse colony. Together with the responsible scientists, the candidate will also help manage the relevant animal ethics documentation and records using dedicated software (Mausoleum). As a key link between the two research units and the animal facility, the candidate will serve as a primary point of contact with the animal house office and staff and will participate in monthly meetings.

In addition, the position will involve a diverse range of wet-lab techniques. These may include PCR, qPCR, and other molecular biology techniques, as well as tissue digestion, cell isolation, flow cytometry, confocal microscopy, and histological procedures. Previous experience with some of these techniques would be an advantage but is not required, as comprehensive training will be provided. The Jobin laboratory regularly introduces and evaluates new technologies, and the successful candidate will therefore also have the opportunity to contribute to the testing, implementation, and optimization of emerging experimental approaches.

Within the VIB BioImaging Core, the position will contribute to the daily operation of the facility through a variety of technical and laboratory support activities.

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 in a timely manner
• Fluent in English, for both written and oral communication
• Enthusiastic team player
• Knowledge of working in a lab (health and safety)
• Previous experience working in a lab (placements during degree studies is sufficient)
• Basic computer skills (text processing, spreadsheet, presentations)

Desirable but not required 

• Experience working with mice
• Basic understanding of fluorescence-based microscopy and flow cytometry
• Basic knowledge of PCR/qPCR
• Basic understanding of immunology 

Key personal characteristics  

• You are enthusiastic and curious about scientific research
• You are accurate and critical of your work and its implementation
• You work in an efficient manner
• 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 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

• Opportunity to contribute to high-impact, scientifically significant research.
• Full-time position at VIB/UGent with competitive salary and benefits.
• Supportive, international research environment with English as the working language.
• Access to state-of-the-art facilities and infrastructure.
• Flexible and varied work with a high degree of autonomy.
• Opportunities for professional growth and training opportunities to expand your skills.
• Immediate availability; starting date negotiable.