Research Technician Controlled Human Infection Models (CHIMS)

About your role

In this role, you will be responsible for the production of challenge agents used in the development of Controlled Human Infection Models (CHIMs). These agents will support LUMC research groups within an international consortium in testing antiviral vaccine candidates. Your responsibilities will include conducting independent research and manufacturing tasks, while collaborating with colleagues both within and outside your department. In addition to these core duties, you will be involved in managing general laboratory tasks. The key responsibilities and tasks associated with this role include:

• Conducting research and manufacturing of challenge agents for CHIMs.
• Overseeing manufacturing activities and ensuring compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) regulations.
• Maintaining the quality system and managing data related to production and research.
• Handling laboratory equipment and performing routine maintenance.
• Organizing and managing general laboratory tasks, collaborating with colleagues as needed.

You will work in compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), ensuring that all procedures and processes meet the required standards for quality and safety. Some of your tasks will be conducted under Bio Safety Level 3 (BSL-3) conditions, which involves working with highly infectious agents in a controlled and secure environment. This includes following stringent safety protocols and procedures to protect both yourself and the environment.

About your workplace

The Center for Cell & Gene Therapy (CCG) at LUMC has over 20 years of experience in developing and producing cell and gene therapies, as well as challenge agents. As part of our team, you will be engaged in pioneering work within this specialized field.

Working at CCG offers a dynamic and collaborative environment where innovation is at the forefront. You will join a dedicated team of approximately 12 professionals who are committed to advancing the field of cell and gene therapy and infectious challenge agents. The role involves active collaboration with research groups, particularly the LUMC Centre of Infectious Diseases (LU-CID), which plays a crucial role in the development of challenge agents.

At CCG, you will be immersed in a setting that not only supports researchers in product development but also manages production processes within our state-of-the-art GMP facility. This facility adheres to stringent quality standards to ensure the highest level of safety and efficacy for clinical-use products. When required, you will also work in a Bio Safety Level 3 (BSL-3) environment, dealing with highly infectious agents under strict safety protocols. The CCG environment fosters close interactions and collaborations with a wide range of stakeholders, both within LUMC and beyond. This collaborative atmosphere is designed to support and enhance your professional growth while contributing to cutting-edge advancements in cell and gene therapy.

About you

We are seeking an enthusiastic research technician who demonstrates a keen eye for detail and a strong commitment to precision. You are proactive in organizing and initiating tasks, and while you thrive as a dedicated team player, you also excel in working independently. Excellent communication skills in English are essential, as this is the primary language within our international team.

The key hard skills required for this role include:

• Proficiency in working under GMP conditions and/or at BSL-3 level.
• Experience with a broad range of molecular biology techniques, including cell culture, NGS sequencing, and PCR.
• Holding an HLO diploma (or equivalent) with at least two years of relevant work experience.

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 €3,401 and €4.816,- gross per month (scale 8M, CAO UMC). These figures are based on a full-time position.
• An increase in the collective wage agreement will take place as of 1 July 2025.
• There will be two discussions rounds with members of the team and, if necessary, with people from the departments with whom we collaborate extensively in this project.
• Applications from employment/recruitment agencies will not be considered.