Research Technician Drost group

Prinses Máxima Centrum voor kinderoncologie

Utrecht

Description

We are looking for an enthusiastic, highly motivated Research Technician with proven experience in animal experiments and care (mice) and who has been trained in molecular biology techniques.

Background information Drost group

The Drost group studies the molecular mechanisms underlying the development of childhood solid tumors. We develop and utilize stem cell culture models, such as organoids, in combination with (single-cell) genomics, gene editing and lineage tracing technologies to study fundamental processes driving tumor growth and to develop new therapies.

In the Drost group, we value collegiality, enthusiasm, dedication, respect, and reliability, thereby creating the most optimal environment to successfully reach our goals.

Drost group website: www.drost-lab.com

Project

As part of a project funded by the European Research Council (ERC), we are seeking a highly motivated and enthusiastic Research Technician to join the Drost lab. The successful candidate will perform mouse experiments and contribute to the development of efficient in vivo delivery strategies for gene-editing technologies, with the ultimate goal of advancing gene therapies for childhood cancer.

Key responsibilities include establishing patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models from primary patient samples and organoids, evaluating different in vivo delivery approaches, and supporting the day-to-day monitoring of animal welfare. The Research Technician will also provide routine technical and administrative support for other research projects involving animal experiments.

In addition to _in vivo _studies, the position will involve a broad range of in vitro experimental work, including mammalian cell culture, CRISPR-Cas9-mediated gene editing in cell lines and organoid cultures, and the application of a variety of molecular biology techniques.

Required Skills

We expect a highly motivated candidate with a bachelor (HBO) in an appropriate discipline (e.g., Biomolecular/Biomedical Sciences, Molecular Life Sciences). In addition, Furthermore, the candidate should have:

  • legal permission and experience with mouse experimentation (Art. 9/12/13),
  • experience with immune compromised animals,
  • experience with basic animal handling and welfare monitoring,
  • experience with complex surgeries is desirable,
  • experience with cell culture and molecular biological techniques is desirable,
  • good communication skills, be flexible, versatile and a team player,
  • good organization and technical skills,
  • self-initiative and eagerness to learn,
  • a high level of verbal and written communication skills in English.

What we offer

  • We offer a full-time position (based on 36 hours a week) in a cutting-edge research environment.
  • The contract will be initially for one year, with the possibility to extend upon satisfaction.
  • Your gross monthly salary will be based on your experience and background and will include 8,33% holiday allowance and 8,33 % end-of-year bonus.
  • The Princess Máxima Center operates according to the collective labor agreement ‘CAO ziekenhuizen’.