What you will be doing
Our group uses cellular structural biology approaches to study the form, function, and evolution of highly specialized cells. Current research in our lab revolves around macromolecular assemblies in gametes (sperm and egg cells) and their roles in reproduction and early development. Understanding the fundamental biology of gametes is essential for improving reproductive technologies, both for human health and for biodiversity conservation.

The core techniques in our experimental arsenal are cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) and cryo-electron tomography (cryo-ET), which we integrate with AI-enabled protein structure modelling, mass spectrometry, and light microscopy. We use these methods to solve structures and build molecular models of large multi-protein assemblies either gently isolated from primary cells or imaged directly within the unperturbed cellular environment.

You will support our group by developing, implementing, and refining workflows to prepare cells and tissues for high-resolution cryo-EM and cryo-ET. This will involve sample preparation, plunge-freezing, high-pressure freezing, and cryo-focused ion beam milling. You will also assist in day-to-day lab operations such as monitoring stocks and ordering reagents/supplies.

For examples of our recent work, please see: Leung et al, 2023 (PMID 37327785); Leung et al, 2021 (PMID 33694216); Leung et al, 2021 (PMID 34737233).

What do we offer?
This position is an exciting opportunity to learn and master cryo-EM techniques while helping to shape the culture and research directions of a young and dynamic new lab. You will start with a one-year contract, which we will extend after a positive evaluation. The start date is negotiable but would preferably be in early 2025.

Application procedure
To apply for this position, please provide a single PDF containing:

(i) a cover letter clearly describing why you are interested in joining the group, what skills you would bring to the team, and what you hope to get out of this position
(ii) your CV
(iii) names and contact details of 2-3 professional references

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the deadline of November 8th. The first round of interviews will take place online in late November.

What you will be contributing
Applicants should have an HLO/HBO degree in molecular/cell biology, biochemistry, physics, or related fields. Experience in (cryo-)transmission electron microscopy and/or scanning electron microscopy is not necessary but will be an advantage.

Fixed-term contract: 1 year (expand after evaluation).

Terms of employment
Depending on education and experience the minimum salary is €[[salarisMin]] and the maximum salary is €[[salarisMax]] gross per month for a full-time appointment (scale [[ufoSchaal]] cao Nederlandse Universiteiten/KNAW). This is exclusive of 8% vacation allowance, 8.3% year-end bonus, travel allowance, internet allowance, home working allowance and pension accrual with ABP.

The KNAW offers its staff an excellent package of secondary benefits. A package that meets the different needs of employees depending on their stage of life, lifestyle or career ambitions. For example, by working an extra two hours a week, it is possible to increase the number of days off from 29 to 41 days a year (with full-time employment).

For a complete overview of the terms of employment, please refer to the web page: werken bij de KNAW.

Applying for a Certificate of Good Conduct can be part of the employment procedure.

Hubrecht instituut

About the Hubrecht Institute
The Hubrecht Institute is a research institute of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW) and is located on the Utrecht Science Park. At the institute, more than 20 research groups perform fundamental and multidisciplinary research, both in healthy systems and disease models. Since 2008, the institute has been affiliated with the University Medical Center Utrecht, advancing the translation of research into clinical practice. The Hubrecht Institute has a partnership with the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL).

If our science resonates with you, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the group leader (m.leung@hubrecht.eu) for questions about the lab, the position, or available projects.