Research Technician - Molecular Cell Biology

We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled Research Technician - Molecular Cell Biology to join the Kops lab at the Hubrecht Institute. We study the molecular mechanisms that ensure accurate chromosome segregation during cell division, with a strong focus on genome stability and its relevance to human disease.

• Scientific/Non-scientific: Academic staff.
• Location: Utrecht.
• Minimum hours per week: 38.
• Contract duration: 1 year.

In this role, you will play a central part in the generation, maintenance, and experimental use of human cell lines, supporting ongoing projects that combine state-of-the-art cell biology, advanced fluorescence microscopy, and sequencing-based approaches. You will work closely with PhD students and postdoctoral researchers in a collaborative and international research environment, contributing directly to cutting-edge research in mitosis and chromosome biology.

The Hubrecht Institute is an international research institute of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW) and is embedded in a vibrant scientific ecosystem with strong links to Utrecht University and UMC Utrecht. The institute provides excellent infrastructure, core facilities, and a stimulating environment for scientific and technical development.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain and culture mammalian cell lines under sterile conditions.
• Generate genetically modified cell lines using CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing.
• Produce lentiviral vectors and perform lentiviral transductions.
• Design and construct plasmids using standard molecular cloning techniques.
• Isolate DNA, RNA, and proteins from mammalian cell lines.
• Perform PCR, qPCR, and genotyping assays.
• Assist with fluorescence microscopy and NGS library preparation.
• Maintain accurate experimental records in an electronic laboratory notebook.
• Contribute to the organization and daily operation of the laboratory.

Essential Qualifications

• Completed HBO or Bachelor's degree in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Biomedical Sciences, Biotechnology, or a related field.
• Experience with mammalian cell culture and molecular biology techniques.
• Strong organizational skills, and the ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Good communication skills and proficiency in spoken and written English.

About the Hubrecht Institute

The Hubrecht Institute is a research institute focused on molecular and developmental biology. Because of the dynamic character of the research, the institute has a variable number of research groups, around 20, that do fundamental, multidisciplinary research on healthy and diseased cells, tissues and organisms. The Hubrecht Institute is a research institute of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW), situated on Utrecht Science Park. Since 2008, the institute is affiliated with the UMC Utrecht, advancing the translation of research to the clinic. The Hubrecht Institute has a partnership with the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL).

Terms of employment

Depending on education and experience the minimum salary is 3.202 and the maximum salary is 4.159 gross per month for a full-time appointment (scale 7 cao Nederlandse Universiteiten/KNAW). This is exclusive of 8% vacation allowance, 8.3% year-end bonus, travel allowance, internet allowance, home working allowance and pension accrual with ABP.

The KNAW offers its staff an excellent package of secondary benefits. A package that meets the different needs of employees depending on their stage of life, lifestyle or career ambitions. For example, by working an extra two hours a week, it is possible to increase the number of days off from 29 to 41 days a year (with full-time employment).

Applying for a Certificate of Good Conduct can be part of the employment procedure.