As a Research Technician you will support research in a team that focuses on the development of antibodies/nanobodies and antiviral drugs targeting viral proteins from influenza- and coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV-2.
Viruses constitute a major threat to economies and societies. Public health is particularly vulnerable to emerging pathogens that suddenly make their way into the human population. To effectively prevent or dampen future outbreaks, vaccines and antivirals need to be developed that broadly target members of virus families causing zoonotic infections in humans. Examples of viruses that have (re)emerged in the last 15 years include avian and swine influenza, and SARS- and MERS-coronaviruses.
Aiming to counteract future outbreaks, the Virology Section of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of Utrecht University participates in several (inter)national research programmes, that explore novel approaches for the development of intervention strategies which broadly target multiple members of influenza virus and coronavirus families.
Qualifications
We are looking for a highly motivated and enthusiastic Technician with an interest in virology, molecular biology and biochemistry. Experience with cloning, cell culture and biochemistry (i.e. protein expression/purification) is a plus. As the Virology Section provides an international research environment, good verbal and written communication skills in English are required.
Offer
We offer a position (1.0 FTE), initally for a period of one year. In case of a good performance, the employment may be extended. The gross salary – depending on previous qualifications and experience – ranges between €2,329 and €3,144 (scale 7 according to the Collective Labour Agreement Dutch Universities) per month for a full-time employment. Salaries are supplemented with a holiday bonus of 8% and a year-end bonus of 8.3% per year. In addition, Utrecht University offers excellent secondary conditions, including an attractive retirement scheme, (partly paid) parental leave and flexible employment conditions external link (multiple choice model). More information about working at Utrecht University external linkcan be found here.
About the organisation
A better future for everyone. This ambition motivates our scientists in executing their leading research and inspiring teaching. At Utrecht University external link, the various disciplines collaborate intensively towards major societal themes. Our focus is on Dynamics of Youth, Institutions for Open Societies, Life Sciences and Sustainability.
The Faculty of Veterinary Medicine external linkhas a unique position in the Netherlands. Not only is this the only institution where Veterinarians are trained, but is is also where Researchers are working together on innovative scientific research. In addition, the faculty provides specialist clinical care in the largest academic veterinary hospital in Europe. Thanks to this position, the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine is a point of contact for all veterinary matters, both nationally and increasingly internationally. The faculty employs approximately 900 Veterinarians, Scientists and support staff and counts 1,500 students.
The Virology Section external linkof the Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine studies the interaction between viruses and their hosts at molecular/cell biological level as well as at the level of the organism. The ultimate goal is to translate the knowledge obtained into the development of novel vaccines, antiviral therapies, and diagnostic tools.
More information about the Virology Section research can be found here external link.
Additional information
For more information about this position, please contact:
Dr. Berend Jan Bosch external link(Associate Professor), via b.j.bosch@uu.nl external linkor Prof. Frank van Kuppeveld external linkvia f.j.m.vankuppeveld@uu.nl. external link
Apply
Everyone deserves to feel at home at our university. We welcome employees with a wide variety of backgrounds and perspectives. To apply, please send your curriculum vitae, including a letter of motivation via the button below.
Due to the coronavirus, interviews will be conducted by video calling.
The application deadline is 11 October 2021.