Research Technician Human Genetics

About your role

As a research technician within our Validation Lab team for Duchenne muscular dystrophy, you will conduct preclinical studies focused on therapy development. You will test various compounds in cell models and analyze their effects on RNA and protein levels. Additionally, you will participate in studies in animal models, utilizing various administration methods and performing functional analyses to evaluate muscle function. Furthermore, you will analyze the effects on RNA, protein, and histological levels to gain insight into the efficacy of potential treatments for Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

Your top five tasks that you will independently perform are:

• to set up experiments and procedures (in vitro and in vivo);
• to conduct in vitro and in vivo experiments;
• to collect and report data;
• to perform data analysis involving routine procedures;
• to interpret results and provide data reports.

About your workplace

The department of Human Genetics is a broadly oriented research department, led by Prof. Dr. Silvère van der Maarel, with a focus on the (epi)genomic contribution to inherited and acquired diseases, and the translation into clinical relevance. The department consists of 23 research units, embedded in four overarching research lines. Currently, the department has about 220 (inter)national employees, ranging from professors, researchers and PhD students to technicians and students.
The research will be conducted within the DMD genetic therapy research group led by Prof. Dr. Annemieke Aartsma-Rus, which includes one associate professor, two postdocs, four PhD students, and six technicians. The group's primary focus is on developing genetic therapies for Duchenne muscular dystrophy. There is a close collaboration with the departments of Radiology and Neurology, as well as with international partners. Within the DMD genetic therapy group, you will work in the Validation Lab team led by Dr. Tiberiu Stan (postdoc), in close collaboration with two technicians.

About you

You approach your work with enthusiasm, taking initiative and maintaining precision while independently contributing to large-scale projects. Your pleasant personality is complemented by strong organizational skills and a flexible mindset. With excellent communication skills and a sharp eye for detail, you know how to collaborate effectively and adapt to changing situations.

In addition, you bring the following:

• A BSc degree in Biology and Medical Laboratory Research, with a specialization in animal experimental research or molecular biology, or equivalent.
• A certificate Article 13f2 or 9 for working with laboratory animals.
• Affinity and experience with experimental animal research.
• Experience with neuromuscular research is advantageous, but not a must.
• Experience with various techniques, including:
• Fluorescence and light microscopy and histological analyses.
• Molecular techniques such as RT-PCR, genotyping, and qPCR.
• Protein analysis, such as Western blot or Jess.

Our offer

Driven by health; that's our mission. This applies not only to our patients but also to our employees. We strive to provide a safe, inclusive and equitable work environment, with a focus on talent development and connected leadership. In order to be able to continue to learn and develop, we offer internal and external training. You are also entitled to an end-of-year bonus (8,3%), holiday allowance, sports budget, bicycle scheme, home office allowance and an excellent commuting allowance. Furthermore, as an employee of LUMC, you are also affiliated with the ABP pension fund. This means that 70% of your pension premium is paid by LUMC, leaving you with a higher net salary. Nice, right?

See all employment conditions of the LUMC.

What do we represent?

As an academic medical center, LUMC strives to have a workforce that is a good reflection of society. We are committed to the highest quality in health care, education and (international) research, in which diverse perspectives are essential. Sustainability is also a high priority for us: we are committed to a healthy future, not only for people, but also for the planet. In line with these values, we aim to be a creative and inspiring place to work, where everyone feels at home, safe and valued. It's all about who you are and what you bring to contribute, regardless of your background. Together, we work toward a sustainable and inclusive future, both for the people around us and for the world we live in. Together, we are LUMC.

More information

• As a research technician, your salary will be between €2,975,- and €4,214,- gross per month (scale 7M, CAO UMC). These figures are based on a full-time position.
• This involves a one-year contract, with the possibility of extension.
• An increase in the collective wage agreement will take place as of 1 July 2025.
• The procedure involves several stages. When you are invited for the first round interview, you will meet with the group leaders to discuss the vacancy and make a small tour around the labs. If there is a match and you are selected for the second round interview, you are requested to present your previous work experience to a broader group of lab members and get to chat with them personally.
• Please provide the names and contact details of two references with your application.
• Applications from employment/recruitment agencies will not be considered.