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Junior Research Technician

The VIB-UGent Center for Plant Systems Biology (PSB) is a world-leading plant science institute located at the heart of a renowned Plant Biotechnology campus in Ghent, Belgium. Its mission is to unravel plant biological processes and translate this knowledge into value for society.

CRISPR/Cas9 technology is revolutionizing plant breeding. Due to high efficiency and simple design, CRISPR has brought genome engineering in reach of most academic labs. Genetic transformation of plants is however a major bottleneck in plant gene editing as it is used for delivery of the CRISPR tools. The Crop Genome Engineering Facility (CGEF) operates a maize and soybean genetic transformation platform that can be accessed by academic labs and by companies. In addition, we use the platforms for research to facilitate plant regeneration and to improve CRISPR delivery.

The lab is located in Zwijnaarde where there are also greenhouses and growth facilities. In addition, greenhouse space will be used in the new Agro-biotech incubator in Nevele.

To support our soybean transformation pipeline, we are looking for a Junior Research Technician.


Job description

As a Junior Lab Technician in the Crop Genome Engineering Facility (CGEF), you will play a vital role in supporting both maize and soybean transformation pipelines. Your main focus will be on maintaining and executing the soybean transformation workflow, which includes molecular cloning of genetic constructs, plant tissue culture, selection of transgenic lines, genotyping, and phenotyping. You will be involved in projects from initiation to completion, ensuring the successful delivery of genetically transformed plants for internal research and external stakeholders. In addition to transformation tasks, you will contribute to research and development aimed at improving transformation efficiency and optimizing CRISPR/Cas9 delivery methods. You will also assist the maize transformation team when needed and work closely with colleagues in the lab and in our greenhouses facilities located in Zwijnaarde and Nevele. This position offers a hands-on opportunity to be part of a cutting-edge plant biotechnology environment that accelerates research and innovation towards more sustainable agriculture.


Profile

  • Professional Bachelor degree (laboratorium technologie)
  • Experience with in vitro plant tissue culture work
  • Experience with handling and growing plants in growth rooms or greenhouse
  • Good command of English, both spoken and written.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office tools (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
  • Driving license B for occasional visit to the Nevele site


Responsibilities

  • Support the maize plant transformation team
  • Plant tissue culture (media preparation, in vitro techniques)
  • Molecular cloning, Agrobacterium transformation
  • Handling of plants in the greenhouse
  • Genotyping (DNA extraction, PCR)
  • Plan, perform and document experiments in an Electronic Lab Notebook (ELN)


Optional knowledge

  • Golden Gate vector cloning
  • Analysis of CRISPR/Cas9 edited plants
  • Experience working with cereals (maize, wheat)
  • Working with an Electronic Lab Notebook (ELN)


Key personal characteristics

  • Passionate about science and genetic engineering
  • Patient and persistent to handle plant tissue culture
  • Strong sense of responsibility, maintain a clean working environment
  • Eager to learn new concepts and techniques, flexible in working hours.
  • Team player with strong interpersonal and communication skills
  • Able to accurately compile and document experiments 


We offer

The 1-year laboratory technician position, with possibility of extension, is available from November  1st 2025 with an internationally competitive salary and benefits. The researcher will have access to state-of-the-art infrastructure and services as well as various training and leadership opportunities to broaden expertise and skills.


How to apply?

Submit your application through the VIB application tool. Be sure it includes:

  • A detailed CV
  • A 1-page letter of intent describing your motivation for this position, your research experiences and future goals.
  • The names and contact details of two references

Emailed applications will not be considered






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