Laboratory Technician in Plant Science/Research on Biostimulants

VIB conducts challenging basic research on the functioning of plants, microorganisms, and the human body, with a focus on translating basic research into applications for agriculture and medicine. VIB is an independent interuniversity research institute of the government, with over 1500 scientists from more than 60 countries working at UGent, KU Leuven, Universiteit Antwerpen, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, and Universiteit Hasselt.

In the Root Development Group of the VIB-UGent Center for Plant Systems Biology , an ongoing project identifies and applies newly discovered biostimulants that improve nutrient uptake or utilization by plants. These biostimulants potentially reduce the need for fertilization with positive effects on the environment (reduced nitrogen or phosphate leaching) and climate (lower greenhouse gas emissions). We are currently looking for a motivated laboratory technician to support and conduct various experiments (pot and other plant growth experiments, microbiological growth experiments, molecular techniques for functional characterization, etc.) within this project.

• You have a Professional Bachelor's degree in agriculture, horticulture, agro- and biotechnology, laboratory technology, biochemistry, biotechnology, biomedical sciences, or equivalent.
• You have experience with pot experiments.
• You know basic microbiology protocols/aseptic techniques.
• You know various molecular techniques (DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, cloning, etc.).
• You organize your work independently.
• You work accurately and have a flexible attitude.
• You can clearly and concisely report to other team members.
• You can express yourself fluently, both verbally and in writing, in English.

• A challenging and varied job in a dynamic and enthusiastic team.
• A competitive salary with various additional benefits (eco-vouchers, health insurance, etc.).
• A full-time contract.

Start Date: as soon as possible – the vacancy remains open until a suitable candidate is found.

Interested candidates should submit their candidacy through the VIB online application tool.

A complete application file (English) should contain the following documents:

• motivation letter 
• a detailed CV 
• contact information of 2 references

For further information and questions, please send an email to Hans Motte ([email protected])