Laboratory and Mouse Colony Technician

About the job

We are seeking a highly motivated and organized lab technician to join our dynamic research team at the VIB-KU Leuven Lab of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism. The successful candidate will contribute to our research on endothelial cell biology by supporting two key areas: (i) mouse colony maintenance and (ii) wet-lab experiments.

In these roles, the candidate will work closely with other technicians, PhD students and postdoctoral researchers to ensure smooth running of the lab. Responsibilities will include husbandry and management of mouse colonies, stock management system coordination, and assisting with general lab activities while ensuring compliance with relevant safety and regulatory guidelines. Strong teamwork with excellent management and organizational skills are essential for this position.

Key responsibilities

Mouse colony manager responsibilities

• Manage and maintain mouse colonies, including breeding/stock cages, genotyping (DNA-extraction, PCR) and record keeping.
• Report on status of mouse colonies to the team and ensure compliance of whole team with allocated numbers of cages.
• Participate in animal experiments.
• Manage the mouse colony database daily (via LAIS-system).
• Ensure compliance with institutional and ethical guidelines for animal care and use.

Wet lab technician responsibilities

• Perform molecular biology techniques (eg. PCR); FACS; cell culture (isolation & culture of endothelial cells); western blotting.
• Manage and maintain laboratory stocks, place orders and ensure proper equipment maintenance.
• Ensure team compliance with lab safety regulations and improve the safety of experimental procedures where required.
• Onboarding new team members to the lab, explaining rules and routines.

Additional responsibilities

• Coordinate activities with other wet-lab technicians to ensure duties are distributed evenly.
• Maintain detailed and accurate records.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues that arise during experiments.
• Demonstrate flexibility and a proactive approach to problem-solving.

Qualifications

Essential

• Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in biomedical, biotechnological techniques or animal care (or related field).
• Proven experience in mouse handling and colony maintenance (FELASA B/C certificate).
• Prior experience in molecular and cell biology techniques (PCR, western blotting) and FACS.
• Basic computer skills (word, excel).
• Fluent in Dutch and English, for both written and oral communication.
• Knowledge and previous experience working in a lab (health and safety).
• The ability to work independently as well as in a team.

Key personal characteristics

• You are highly organised.
• You are enthusiastic and curious about scientific research.
• You are willing to organise and participate in the general lab organisation.
• You are accurate and critical of your work and its implementation.
• You have a strong ability to multitask and meet deadlines.
• You enjoy other cultures and respect others and their different ideas/opinions.

We offer

• A collaborative and supportive (international) research environment.
• Opportunities for skill development and career growth.
• The ability to work on high-impact research topics.
• Full or part-time (80%) appointment as a laboratory technician.
• A competitive salary and benefits (health insurance).
• A permanent position after an initial trial period.
• State-of-the-art infrastructure.
• A varied work schedule, with significant autonomy over how you plan your day.

Starting date: as soon as possible.

How to apply?

Motivated candidates are asked to apply online using the VIB online application tool.

Additional requirements: Upload your full CV and motivation letter.