Research Technician

The VIB-UGent Center for Medical Biotechnology (CMB) focuses on the development of new and innovative molecular tools and technologies to challenge human health problems. The Center translates its novel technologies and insights to widely applicable research tools, vaccines, diagnostics and biopharmaceuticals. Our research pushes the boundaries of protein-focused biomolecular and bioinformatics research and engineering technologies. CMB educates and trains the next generation of medical biotechnology researchers and informs the public on the impact of biotechnology on human
health.

Patients on a chronic glucocorticoid treatment regimen experience detrimental side effects (hyperglycemia leading to diabetes, weight gain, osteoporosis, etc.). Through our research, we aim to provide unique, in-depth knowledge-based, insights that facilitate improved early-stage triage of compounds in compound screen exercises. The Translational Nuclear Receptor Research lab headed by Karolien De Bosscher is collaborating with the mass spectrometry lab of Kris Gevaert and also with the LUMC Institute in Leiden for the pharmacological analysis of a novel generation of compounds that can change the shape and behavior of the glucocorticoid receptor, to improve the understanding of how these steroid receptors may selectively achieve gene transcription.

You will be involved in an FWO-supported project entitled “Disentangling the complexity and diversity of glucocorticoid receptor signaling”, involving protein complex analysis studies via a diversity of pre-existing cell-based assays but also involving new assay development and optimizations. You will work in a sub-team jointly led by a PhD student and senior technician. We look for a candidate comfortable in an environment that changes fast and is eagerly willing to learn new skills. One part of the work relates to cell biology, including classical cell culture, cell transfections and selection, but may also entail lentiviral productions and transductions, and CRISPR-Cas9 knock-out and knock-in engineering. This is complemented by classical molecular biology work which includes RT-qPCR, Western analysis, luciferase-based read-outs and cloning of targeting constructs. Another part of the work relates to sample preparations for mass spectrometry analyses.

• We are looking for someone who recently graduated as a professional bachelor in biotechnology or a related area with an interest in cell biology and molecular biology. Final-year students are also welcome to apply.
• Prior knowledge of proteomic workflows and cellular assays is a plus
• Given you will work in an international environment, excellent working knowledge of English is required
• You are motivated, dynamic and you report truthfully and carefully
• You are proficient in basic laboratory skills and able to follow standard operating
• procedures (SOPs)
• You are familiar with common laboratory equipment and instruments (such as microscopes, centrifuges, Western blotting, laminar flow cabinet)
• You have basic proficiency in using laboratory software as well as general computer skills for  documentation and communication
• You have strong organizational skills and effective time management
• You are flexible
• You have a problem-solving attitude
• You have a hands-on attitude and an eye for detail
• You can work independently in an accurate manner
• You are a people person, and team player with good communication skills

• You hold a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent degree and you submit a transcript of your degree. For diplomas awarded outside the European Union, a certificate of equivalence (NARIC) must be submitted
• You apply online through the application tool by the application deadline and you submit all the required documents by the application deadline.

The admission requirements need to be fulfilled by the starting date.

This position is a unique opportunity for a junior technician to develop and learn new skills. We offer a contract of indefinite duration with a salary in accordance with your relevant experience for the position. You will enjoy several benefits, such as a wide range of training and education opportunities, 36 days of paid leave, bicycle commuting reimbursement, eco cheques, etc. 

Please send us your CV and motivation letter by 12/05/2024 at 23.59h using our online application tool. 

We do not accept late/incomplete applications or applications that are not sent through the online system.

Your application must include the following documents:

• your cv
• your application letter
• a transcript of the required degree. If you have a foreign diploma in a language other than our national languages (Dutch, French or German) or English, please add a translation in one of the mentioned languages only for diplomas awarded outside the European Union a certificate of equivalence (NARIC) must be submitted

For more information regarding the job content, please contact: 

• Chloé Van Leene at chloé[email protected] or 09/2249863
• Karolien De Bosscher at [email protected] or 09/224 9866