About us
The Laboratory of Causal Systems Immunology combines large-scale in vivo perturbation experiments, advanced mouse models of immune diseases and causal learning to uncover how genes shape immune-cell states and predict how the immune system responds to interventions. This tight integration of experimental immunology with data-driven experiments allows us to tackle fundamental biological questions with direct biomedical relevance. We are embedded in both the VIB-UGent Center for Inflammation Research, a leading center unravelling the cellular and molecular mechanisms of inflammatory diseases, and the VIB Center for AI & Computational Biology, a young, ambitious center whose research groups address biological questions through the lens of AI.
About the role
The lab is looking for a wet-lab technician to support in vivo CRISPR screening. You will join the ERC Starting Grant project PowerPortrait, which aims to disentangle the regulation of a key immune cell—the macrophage—in health and disease.
Under the supervision of a staff scientist, you will work both collaboratively and independently on CRISPR screens from start to finish using various high-end technologies. This involves the in vitro culture of primary murine stem cells and genetically altering them using CRISPR technology to generate transgenic mice. You will perform a variety of techniques, including cell and mouse work, cell transduction, multicolor flow cytometry and FACS sorting, light/fluorescence and confocal microscopy and irradiation. In addition, you will support general tasks within the lab such as preparing buffers. We offer a high-tech environment, support from several core facilities, training opportunities and a diverse, vibrant team.
Your profile
Essential requirements
- A Bachelor’s degree or higher in biomedical laboratory technology, biochemistry, biotechnology, animal care or a related field
- FELASA B/C certificate or willingness to obtain the certificate in a timely manner
- Fluency in written and spoken English
- Experience with in vitro work
- Experience working with mice
- Experience with molecular techniques such as PCR and qPCR
- Knowledge of laboratory health and safety procedures
- Previous laboratory experience (placements completed during degree studies are sufficient)
- Ability to work effectively as part of a team
Desirable bot not required
- Experience in culturing stem cells
- Experience with intravenous and intraperitoneal injections.
- Experience with cell transfection techniques (particularly viral transduction).
- Basic understanding of immunology
- Basic understanding of flow cytometry and confocal microscopy
Key personal characteristics
- You are enthusiastic and curious about scientific research
- You like learning new techniques and want to stay at the technological forefront
- You are willing to participate in the general lab organization
- You can work well in a team and independently
- You are accurate and critical of your work and its implementation
- You have a strong ability to multitask and meet deadlines
- You enjoy other cultures and are respectful of others and their different ideas and opinions
Our offer
- A full-time position
- A challenging job in a stimulating, collaborative environment with opportunities for personal development
- You will learn new techniques and tools
- Freedom to shape your work and role
- Exposure to diverse projects and cutting-edge technologies
- A generous annual leave policy to create a good work-life balance
- A competitive salary and benefits including hospitalization insurance, pension plan, eco-cheques, a bicycle allowance or full reimbursement of public transport costs
- This role is part of a 5-year project, with the possibility of extension depending on the availability of funds.
How to apply
Please submit your application using the online form (https://jobs.vib.be/apply/137661).
Your application should include:
- A motivation letter submitted through the designated form
- A CV highlighting how your past experience and achievements are relevant to this position
- Ideally, contact details for at least one referee
In case of questions, please reach out to [email protected].
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