Lab Technician Molecular and Cellular Immunology

VIB is an entrepreneurial and vibrant non-profit research institute in Flanders-Belgium with a clear focus on groundbreaking research in life sciences. About 1500 scientists and technologists from over 60 countries are based at the 5 Flemish Universities of Ghent, Leuven, Antwerp, Brussels, and Hasselt, and are studying the broad spectrum of molecular mechanisms that regulate the functions of the human body, plants, and microorganisms.

The VIB Center for Inflammation Research (IRC) is mostly located at the Tech Lane Ghent Science Park of Ghent University, with two affiliated labs located on the VUB campus Etterbeek (Myeloid Cell Immunology Lab) and one affiliated lab at UHasselt. The Center is focused on the molecular mechanisms of inflammation in pathologies such as allergy, autoimmune diseases, cancer, infectious diseases, and senescence. At the heart of this research is the investigation of inter- and intracellular signaling pathways in innate and adaptive immune cells and barrier cells of the skin, lung, and gut. IRC is currently composed of 17 independent research groups, with strong links to University Hospitals and collaborations with biotech companies to promote translational research and to bring novel findings closer to the patient.

The Myeloid Cell Immunology (MCI) Laboratory is located in the city center of Brussels (campus Etterbeek, VUB), the international capital of Belgium and Europe. MCI is a dynamic team of about 15 researchers, with a good balance between young and more experienced scientists, performing cutting-edge onco-immunology research with a special focus on the tumor microenvironment. We exploit in vivo mouse models, (single cell) omics, multi-colour spectral flow cytometry, nanobody technology and other cutting-edge approaches to gain groundbreaking insights into the impact of tumor-infiltrating immune cells (mostly macrophages) on tumor promotion and to therapeutically target these cells. Our work is published in high-profile journals such as Nature Communications, Nature Neuroscience, Cell Reports, Cancer Research and others. We are internationally recognized for our work and collaborate with several partners in Belgium and abroad.

The VIB Myeloid Cell Immunology lab , headed by Prof Jo Van Ginderachter, is looking for a highly motivated research technician. The Van Ginderachter team focuses on the characterization of immune cells in the tumor microenvironment, research in which the candidate will be strongly involved and supportive. The MCI lab offers a dynamic and scientifically stimulating working environment within an international, enthusiastic, and motivated team.

• The candidate should hold a bachelor's degree (or higher) in biomedical, biochemical, or biotechnological laboratory techniques, or related fields.
• General experience in cell culture
• General experience in animal handling and husbandry background, FELASA B certificate
• Specialized experience with animal experimental procedures, mouse genotyping, flow cytometry, ELISA, immunohistochemistry, microscopy, or quantitative PCR is a strong bonus
• Good practical knowledge of English
• Basic computer skills (text processing, spreadsheet, etc.)
• Willing to learn new techniques and expand your knowledge
• Willing to participate in the general lab organization
• Able to work in a team as well as individually
• Strong sense of pro-active and results-oriented attitude, highly organized and structured, detail-oriented lab worker with good interpersonal and communication skills

Nature of the contract:

• Full-time job offer
• Contract of fixed duration (1 year, with a possibility of prolongation)
• Start as from 1 August 2023

Interested candidates should send their CV, ideally containing contact information of 1 or 2 referees and a motivation letter to Prof. Dr. Ir. Jo Van Ginderachter, e-mail: jo.van.ginderachter@vub.be