The research group led by Dr. Joke den Haan (Joke den Haan - Immunology Amsterdam) is international and generates different types of cancer nanovaccines (liposomes, nanobodies, antibodies) that are targeted to macrophages or dendritic cells. We use both human antigen presenting cells and T cells as well as in vivo animal models to test our vaccination approaches and employ (unbiased) multiparameter spectral cytometry, ELISA, and microscopy read-outs. The research technician will be involved in the generation and analyses of the immunostimulatory effects of nanobody and liposomal vaccines to induce T cells that can inhibit cancer outgrowth.

About your role
A position is vacant for a research technician in the group of dr. Joke den Haan with the focus on the development of novel types of cancer vaccines. In this position you will collaborate with postdocs and PhD students for production of vaccines, detection of uptake and presentation of vaccines by antigen presenting cells and for their capacity to activate T and B cells. We use in vitro cell culture systems and in vivo models, multiparameter spectral flow cytometry, and molecular biology and biochemistry techniques to produce and evaluate the vaccines for their immunostimulatory effects.

• You have extensive experience in cell isolations from blood and tissues and in cell culturing. Experience with human T cell cultures is recommended;
• You have extensive experience with conventional and/or spectral flow cytometry and cell sorting. You can set up your own panels and perform the analyses. Experience with ELISA and microscopy techniques is a plus;
• You have experience in molecular biology and biochemistry techniques to produce modified cell lines and recombinant proteins;
• You are willing to work with in vivo models or have a license to perform in vivo experiments;
• You have good organizational and communication skills to advise and support several researchers in cellular assays. You are able to implement innovations in the field quickly;
• You have a team player mentality and have ample knowledge in practical laboratory work, handling of complex equipment and technical reporting in written or presentation form;

• Appointment for 1 year, with the possibility of another 1.5 year extension after good evaluation
• Salary range is 2751-3896 euro Gross in full-time employment. The monthly wage will increase yearly.
• In addition to a good basic salary, you will receive, among other things, 8.3% year-end bonus and 8% vacation allowance.
• Pension accrual with ABP, of which we pay 70% of the premium.
• Reimbursement of 75% of your public transport costs. Would you rather travel by bike? Then we have a good bicycle scheme.
• An active staff association and the Young Amsterdam UMC association, both of which organize fun (sports) activities and events.

Amsterdam UMC

The Department of Molecular Cell Biology and Immunology (MCBI) at the Amsterdam UMC (location VUmc) at the southwest edge of the city carries out research at an internationally competitive level and offers a stimulating and collegial work environment. The research of the department concentrates on immunological questions in the fields of cancer, neuroimmunology, skin immunology, and inflammation. The research focuses on both, fundamental questions aimed at unraveling molecular and cellular mechanisms and translational research focusing on the application of fundamental knowledge to medical questions (immunologyamsterdam).