Technician in Pathogen Genomics and Antimicrobial Resistance

Technician in Pathogen Genomics and Antimicrobial Resistance at University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG)

We are looking for a motivated and skilled laboratory technician to join our research team at the University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG), contributing to innovative solutions for the diagnosis and management of bloodstream infections (BSI).

Project Aim

The DRAIGON consortium aims to develop and validate a next-generation in vitro diagnostic (IVD) device that integrates whole-genome sequencing (WGS) and artificial intelligence for rapid, accurate detection of multi-drug resistant pathogens. This device will focus particularly on diagnostics for blood and joint infections.

As a technician, you will be responsible for:

• Supporting the setup and execution of molecular workflows for bacterial and fungal pathogen identification and AMR profiling
• Preparing and processing clinical and enriched culture samples for short- and long-read sequencing
• Conducting nucleic acid extraction, quality control, and library preparation using established protocols
• Assisting in the standardization and documentation of laboratory procedures
• Maintaining laboratory equipment and supplies, ensuring quality and safety standards are met
• Collaborating with clinical and bioinformatics teams to ensure smooth integration of lab results with downstream data analysis
• Contributing to data management and assisting in the collection of metadata and diagnostics information

Working environment

You will support the development and implementation of genome-based diagnostics for antimicrobial resistance (AMR) as part of the international Horizon Europe-funded DRAIGON project (Diagnosing Infections with Multi-Drug-Resistant Microorganisms using AI-powered Genomic Antibiotic Susceptibility Prediction from Long-Read Sequencing Data).

The position is embedded within the Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, which provides patient-specific diagnostics, clinical consultation, teaching, and research in areas including virology, bacteriology, mycology, parasitology, and infection prevention.

What do we need

Required Qualifications and Skills

• A completed HBO-level degree in Biomedical Laboratory Science, Molecular Biology, or a related field
• Hands-on experience in a molecular biology or microbiology laboratory, ideally with DNA/RNA extraction and PCR
• Interest in or experience with next-generation sequencing workflows
• Ability to follow protocols precisely and to document procedures and results clearly
• A strong sense of responsibility and attention to detail
• Good communication and teamwork skills; comfortable working in a multidisciplinary, international research setting
• Willingness to learn new techniques and technologies as the project evolves

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working under quality management systems (e.g., ISO 15189)
• Familiarity with handling clinical samples and/or working in a clinical microbiology environment
• Basic knowledge of antimicrobial resistance and clinical diagnostics is a plus
• Experience with laboratory automation or high-throughput workflows is an asset

What do we offer

We offer a stimulating, collaborative work environment in a highly innovative research project. The technician position is full-time (36 hours/week) and initially for one year, with the possibility of extension based on performance and project needs.

You will receive a competitive salary in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for University Medical Centres (CAO-UMC), including an 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% end-of-year bonus. Salary level will depend on your education and experience. You will work within an internationally recognized research group with access to professional development opportunities. The conditions of employment comply with the Collective Labour Agreement for Medical Centres (CAO-UMC).

For more information, feel free to contact:

• Prof. Bhanu Sinha, MD, PhD – Clinical Microbiologist
• Prof. John Rossen, PhD – Medical Molecular Microbiologist

We look forward to your application and to working with a new team member who shares our commitment to advancing infectious disease diagnostics.