Technician neuro-immunology of pain

Join a motivated research group led by Dr. Eijkelkamp and become part of an enthusiastic team funded by a NWO-Vici grant to investigate how mitochondria and immune cells resolve inflammatory pain.

About the Role

Our research focuses on mechanisms that resolve pain, with a particular emphasis on the communication between immune and nervous systems and mitochondria. In this Vici project, we aim to fully understand how mitochondria are regulated in sensory neurons to stop inflammatory pain and through which mechanisms macrophages help facilitate this process. You will develop (viral) constructs to perturb mitochondrial functioning, perform in vitro assays to assess mitochondrial functions, and evaluate how these affect sensory neuron function using a broad range of techniques such as imaging, flow cytometry, and western blot. You will use human iPSC-derived sensory neurons. You will work on identifying how macrophages communicate with sensory neurons together with a team of PostDocs and PhD students. To validate targets and mechanisms, you will assist in performing in vivo studies to assess mitochondrial function and pain resolution pathways.

The obtained information will be used to design and develop ways to treat chronic pain.

About the Team

The laboratory for neuro-immunology of pain is hosted in the Center of Translational Immunology (CTI) at the UMC Utrecht. The group of Eijkelkamp is composed of an international team of researchers actively collaborating on projects to better understand chronic pain and develop novel therapeutic strategies to address pain and inflammation. The CTI is a well-facilitated department with experts in all fields of immunology and is embedded in the focus area ‘Infection and Immunology’ of the UMC Utrecht. We are structured to facilitate bench-to-bedside research. Within the CTI and UMCU/UU, we have state-of-the-art flow cytometry, imaging, mass spectrometry, and RNA sequencing facilities.

What We Are Looking For

We are seeking a talented and highly motivated technician with an HBO degree in laboratory sciences, preferably with expertise in molecular biology. You have excellent experimental skills and experience in molecular techniques, cell culture (preferably with human iPSC-derived neurons), and flow cytometry. Affinity with neuro-immunology is preferred, as well as the willingness and certification to perform animal experiments. You should have good communication skills, be flexible, and be a good team player.

What We Offer

• A salary between € 3,064 and € 4,340 gross per month (salary scale 7M), based on full-time employment (36 hours).
• Year-end bonus of 8.3% and holiday allowance of 8%.
• Pension insurance with ABP. We take care of approximately 70% of the monthly contribution.
• 100% public transport reimbursement. If you come on foot, by bike, or by car, you will receive a reimbursement of € 0.18 per km (by car up to a max. of 40 km one way).
• Opportunities for personal and professional development.
• The option to select additional employment benefits in exchange for gross salary, such as purchasing a bicycle and memberships.

We believe in the power of a diverse team where there is room for different skills, expertise, and social and cultural backgrounds. We are curious about you!