Research Assistant

In this role, you will perform a broad range of molecular and cellular biology experiments and contribute to the day-to-day progress of the project. While genome instability is a key hallmark of cancer, we still have an incomplete understanding of the processes that prevent or cause genomic instability and of the conditions that determine how well cells tolerate genomic instability. In this KWF funded fundamental research project we aim to tackle this by identifying and mechanistically investigating novel factors with a significant impact on genome stability and the consequences of genome instability. We identify these factors through genome-wide functional genetic screens that read out the consequences of telomere deprotection, a key cause of genome instability.

We will set out to identify novel factors that promote lethal telomere-driven genomic instability that results from aberrant DNA repair activities at deprotected telomeres, and we will investigate their mechanism of action. In addition, we will set out to identify factors that do the opposite and suppress lethal telomere-driven genomic instability. We will investigate their mechanism of action and how the inhibition of these factors may be exploited in cancer therapy by increasing genomic instability over the limit that is tolerable for cell survival. Together this work will increase our understanding of the processes that cause, worsen or prevent genomic instability and will contribute to identifying potential ways to selectively eliminate incipient or advanced cancer cells with instable telomeres, or those prone to other forms of mutagenic DNA repair.

As a Research Assistant, you will support and actively contribute to the execution of the research project. Your responsibilities will include:

• Performing molecular and cellular biology experiments, including mammalian cell culture, genome editing, microscopy, flow cytometry and molecular analyses;

• Supporting genome-wide functional genetic screening experiments and follow-up validation studies;

• Collecting, documenting and organizing experimental data;

• Contributing to troubleshooting and optimization of experimental procedures;

• Maintaining laboratory stocks, equipment and shared resources;

• Working closely with the PhD student and other lab members to ensure efficient execution of the project;

• Participating in lab meetings and scientific discussions.

Science is at the heart of everything we do at the NKI. But breakthroughs don't happen through science alone; they happen through people – curious minds, bold thinkers, people who challenge assumptions and turn complex questions into meaningful discoveries. Around 600 scientists, together with 150 scientific and 150 administrative professionals, work here across the full spectrum of cancer research, from fundamental science to clinical innovation. With roughly 55 nationalities represented, we form a vibrant international community where English is our shared language and every voice carries equal weight. Our institute sits just 15 minutes by bike from the heart of Amsterdam.

We are looking for a motivated and enthusiastic life sciences professional with a strong interest in laboratory-based research. You enjoy working hands-on in the lab, are eager to learn new techniques, and thrive in both independent and collaborative environments. To be successful in this role, you bring the following qualifications and skills:

• You have a Bachelor’s (HBO) or Master degree in Medical Biology, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Biotechnology or a related life sciences discipline;

• You have hands-on experience with molecular and/or cellular biology techniques. Experience with mammalian cell culture is highly desirable;

• Experience with genome editing, microscopy, flow cytometry and/or next-generation sequencing techniques is considered an advantage;

• You have a strong affinity for laboratory-based research;

• You work accurately, are well organized and pay attention to detail;

• You are proactive, eager to learn and enjoy solving experimental challenges;

• You are able to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team;

• You have good communication skills and are fluent in English.

The basis for your employment conditions is in accordance with the CLA Hospitals. You will receive from us:

• A year's contract for 36 hours per week, with the prospect of an extension of 2 years and 3 months;

• A gross monthly salary between €3.463,- and €4.914,-, based on a 36-hour working week, in line with FWG 50 and depending on your experience;

• 144 holiday hours and 57 hours of Personal Life Budget, with full-time employment;

• Annual holiday pay of 8.33% and a fixed end-of-year bonus of 8.33%;

• A travel allowance of €0.23 per km;

• Free parking at the Netherlands Cancer Institute. And with our bicycle plan and discount on public transport we also make it attractive for you to leave the car at home;

• A great opportunity in a specialised hospital where you can also continue to learn and grow yourself if you wish: the AVL Academy offers innovative and inspiring education in the field of oncology professional knowledge, skills and personal development;

• Opportunity to exercise at our Fit Boutiqs;

• An active staff association.

Apply now via the application button! Please attach your application letter, CV (including your grades), and contact information for two references to the application form (link) on our website. Ensure that the reference information and overview of your grades are included along with your cover letter or CV, as there is no option to submit them separately. Apply by the 'Apply now' button at the bottom of the page

For more information about the position, please contact Jacqueline Jacobs, via 020 512 1784 or j.jacobs@nki.nl.

For further information about the application procedure, please contact Pascal van Kippersluis, Recruiter, via p.v.kippersluis@nki.nl.