Function description
The technician will join the research group of Prof. dr. Christian Blank. The Blank group is part of the Immunology department and has a strong connection to the clinic. The main research focus of the group is in the field of cancer immunotherapy. In this type of cancer treatment, the patient’s immune system is stimulated to recognize and kill cancer cells. The last decade, immunotherapy has revolutionized cancer treatment. Unfortunately, so far not all patients benefit to the full potential from such therapies.

In the Blank group we aim to improve immunotherapy by the modulation of the tumor microenvironment. We have developed mouse models of human melanoma in which we are able to test new combination therapies with the goal improve treatment outcome. We try to achieve this by combining new treatments with existing immune therapies, with the aim of directly translating our results into clinical trials for cancer patients.

Job description:
You will provide support in the development and application of combination therapies in a preclinical setting. Furthermore you will work closely together with other lab members and core facilities to optimize and apply these methods in human and mouse cells. The technician will be mostly involved in conducting in vivo experiments to test combination therapies in established mouse melanoma models. In addition, the technician will help in facilitating day to day activities of the group by involving in general administrative tasks as well.

We are looking for a highly motivated and enthusiastic Research Technician with a strong interest to translate research discoveries to the clinic. Good communication skills and the ability to work in a team are crucial. The candidate should have a HLO or Master (MSc) degree in biology, biomedical sciences or biochemistry. A proven track record, or affinity, with mouse studies is essential along with ‘Article 9/12’ competence is essential. Experience with cell culture and PCR is advantageous. Fluency in spoken and written English is a strong requirement.

Fixed-term contract: 1 year.

The technician will be employed in the research group of Christian Blank and the employment will be for a period of 1 year.

The gross salary per month will range  from € 2.251,- to a maximum of € 3.225,-, according to the FWG function group 45 and dependents on relevant work experience. The terms of employment will be in accordance with the CAO Ziekenhuizen (Collective Labour Agreement for Hospitals). Furthermore you will receive a holiday pay (8,33%) in December and holiday pay (8,33%) in May. 

Amsterdam is a very livable city with many cultural amenities. The institute is located within a 20 minute tram or bicycle ride from the center of Amsterdam and within 20 minutes from Schiphol airport by car, bus or bicycle.

The Netherlands Cancer Institute

The Netherlands Cancer Institute (NKI) is the only Comprehensive Cancer Center in The Netherlands (Amsterdam). It is a well-organised and dynamic cancer research institute accommodating over 50 research groups and advanced core facilities. It is an internationally renowned center covering fundamental, translational and clinical cancer research. The work takes place within the Department of Radiology at the Netherlands Cancer Institute in Amsterdam in association with the University of Maastricht.