As a research technician, you will support the researchers of the Ocular Angiogenesis Group of the Department of Ophthalmology. We focus on vascular diseases of the retina, such as diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration.

In our research, you will work with vascular organoids derived from patient-specific stem cells (iPSCs). These organoids spontaneously form a capillary network that closely resembles the blood vessels of the eye, offering a more accurate model than previous cell-based systems. To validate the model, we need to confirm that the cells resemble retinal capillaries both structurally and functionally. This involves using advanced microscopy techniques (such as electron microscopy and confocal imaging), flow cytometry, and various functional assays. Next, we will compare iPSC lines from eye patients with control lines or introduce specific gene knockouts.

Our team is part of the national LiveLong Vision consortium, a collaborative initiative of ophthalmologic researchers aimed at combating blindness. Within this consortium, we collaborate with other Dutch universities to develop more advanced models of retinal diseases. If successful in the first 5 years, the program will be extended for up to 10 years.

• You will support us as a research analyst in cell and organoid culture. This involves isolating, characterizing, and maintaining endothelial cells, as well as caring for the organoids. After isolating the endothelial cells, their purity will be checked using flow cytometry. For the organoids, iPS cells will be initiated and differentiated, and the culture will be maintained several times a week.
• You will also be responsible for keeping track of supplies in the culture lab and the storage of our samples in our -80°C freezers and nitrogen tanks.
• Additionally, you may assist with experiments, immunohistochemistry, RNA isolation, qPCR, and western blotting.

• You are an enthusiastic and detail-oriented technician who thrives in a translational research environment, contributing to a young and dynamic team.
• You have experience in cell culture, with a particular focus on human iPSC culturing, differentiation protocols, and assays. Additionally, you are familiar with molecular biology techniques such as fluorescence microscopy, flow cytometry, and western blotting.
• You possess an analytical, solution-oriented mindset, are able to follow protocols accurately, troubleshoot effectively, and find efficient solutions. You can also manage multiple tasks and priorities with ease.
• You have strong communication skills, are service-oriented, and flexible, with the ability to work independently and navigate changing situations.
• You are based in or near Amsterdam, or are willing to relocate to the area.

• One-year contract with the prospect of a long term continuation.
• Classification in salary scale 7M or 8M: € 2.975 to € 4.816 gross for full-time employment (depending on education and experience).
• In addition to a good basic salary, we offer 8.3% end-of-year bonus. Calculate your net salary here.
• Vacation hours: 186,4 per year for fulltime and possibility to save additional hours.
• Free and unlimited access to our online learning environment GoodHabitz.
• Pension accrual with BeFrank, a modern, easy-to-understand, and fairly priced pension plan.
• For commutes of 7 km or more (one-way), you’ll receive 100% reimbursement for public transport costs, or €0.18 per km for private transportation, up to a maximum of 40 km one-way.
  Prefer to walk or cycle? Take advantage of our great bike policy, which provides a reimbursement of €0.18 per km.
• An active staff association and Jong Amsterdam UMC association, both of which organize fun (sports) activities and events.

Amsterdam UMC

The group consists of one postdoc and a varying number of PhD students (2-5) and is led by Dr. Ingeborg Klaassen (head of the research lab) and Professor Reinier Schlingemann (ophthalmologist). Within our team you will work closely together with the postdoc and collaborate with other team members and (inter)national collaborators.

Within the Amsterdam UMC we have several collaborations with other research groups in the field of vascular research, cancer research and neuroscience. We also collaborate with numerous national and international groups. More information about our research can be found on our website Ocular Angiogenesis Group (ocular-angiogenesis.nl.

Our lab is located in the department of Medical Biology, where a range of different disorders is studied using a variety of microscopy, biochemistry, and omics technologies. The department also harbors the microscopy and flow cytometry core facility.

Watch this video for more information about joining Amsterdam UMC Research BV.

Applications will be considered continuously during the publication period. If the vacancy is filled, it will be closed prematurely.

If you have any questions about this position, please feel free to contact dr. Ingeborg Klaassen via i.klaassen@amsterdamumc.nl.

For more information about the application process please contact Tanja Hart, Recruitment adviser, via 06-21603178 or via t.hart@amsterdamumc.nl.

A reference check, screening and hiring test may be part of the procedure. Read here whether this also applies to you. If you join us, we ask for a VOG (Certificate of Good Conduct).

Internal candidates, in case of equal suitability, will be given priority over external candidates.

Acquisition in response to this vacancy is not appreciated.