VIB is an entrepreneurial and vibrant non-profit research institute in Flanders-Belgium with a clear focus on groundbreaking research in life sciences. About 1500 scientists and technologists from over 60 countries are based at the 5 Flemish Universities of Ghent, Leuven, Antwerp, Brussels and Hasselt, and are studying the broad spectrum of molecular mechanisms that regulate the functions of the human body, plants and microorganisms.
The VIB-KULeuven Center for Cancer Biology (CCB), located on the Campus Gasthuisberg of the University of Leuven, contributes to the better understanding of the biology that underlies cancer initiation, progression and metastatic dissemination with the ultimate goal to develop more effective and specific anti-cancer (combination) therapies. CCB is currently composed of more than 200 scientists in 12 independent research groups and units. Our scientific interest lies in various hallmarks of tumors and their microenvironment, including inflammation, metabolism, genetic and epigenetic regulating circuits. CCB fosters an interdisciplinary environment and close cooperation with the Comprehensive Cancer Center of Leuven (LKI) and the University Hospital, both located on the same campus, to promote translational research.

The Spatial Metabolomics Expertise Center is a research platform collaborating with Scientists from VIB-KU Leuven Center for Cancer Biology, external universities, and private companies to support biological, pharmaceutical, and medical fields in their research. Our Mass Spectrometry Imaging (MSI) platform allows to map the spatial distribution of metabolites, drugs and proteins from a tissue section with state-of-the-art technologies and equipment.

Your profile

As a Lab Technician, you will be responsible for the following key tasks:

• Sample Preparation:
  • Utilizing a robotic sprayer to apply enzymes or matrix onto tissue sections.
  • Sectioning of frozen or formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissues
• Mass Spectrometry Imaging:
  • Keeping detailed records of all experiments in line with established protocols.
  • Developing and maintaining Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
  • Performing histology stains and subsequent imaging data analysis.
  • Setting up and conducting mass spectrometry imaging experiments.
• Data Analysis:
  • Analyzing data using SCi LS Lab and other statistical methods specific to mass spectrometry imaging following optimized SOPs.
  • Preparing comprehensive reports on results using Power Point and Excel.

We are seeking a candidate with the following qualifications and skills:

• Educational Background: You have a degree in biochemistry, analytical chemistry, or a related field.
• Experience: Experience in LC/MS, GC/MS, or mass spectrometry imaging is highly desirable.
• Eagerness to Learn: You are enthusiastic about expanding your practical and technological expertise.
• Teamwork and Independence: You are comfortable working both collaboratively in a team and independently.
• Organizational Skills: You work in a structured, organized, and goal-oriented manner, with the ability to document results meticulously in electronic formats.
• Passion and Motivation: You are passionate about your work and motivated to contribute in an international, dynamic environment.
• Laboratory Management: You are willing to engage in various laboratory management tasks, including cleaning, drafting procedures, preparing reagents, and ordering supplies as needed.
• Language Skills: You maintain a strong level of written and spoken English.

We can offer

• Contract: A full-time, one-year contract as a Lab Technician, with the possibility of a contract extension thereafter.
• Research Opportunities: The chance to support and contribute to cutting-edge research projects in collaboration with CCB researchers and global universities.
• Collaborative Environment: Work in a multidisciplinary and international setting.
• Advanced Technology: The opportunity to work with state-of-the-art mass spectrometry imaging technologies.

How to apply?

Please provide a motivation letter, full CV, list of publications and contact details of 2 referees in one single pdf file.
For more information

Please contact us (https://ccb.sites.vib.be/en/expertise/spatial-metabolomics)
Email: melanie.planque@kuleuven.be and sarah-maria.fendt@kuleuven.be
About Leuven

Leuven - only 20 minutes away from Brussels by train - is a vivid university city with a rich history, a well-preserved historical town center and a lively multi-cultural atmosphere. The city is surrounded by charming small villages, woods and nature. Leuven has a lively atmosphere because of the many students from all over the world.

Leuven is home to the KU Leuven, the largest and oldest university of the Low Countries and one of the oldest universities still in Europe. The related university hospital of UZ Leuven is one of the largest hospitals in Europe.
Leuven and the surroundings are a great place for young people and families to live and raise children. There are many excellent day care centers and schools including an international school.