Electron Microscopy Expert at the VIB Bio Imaging Core in Leuven

VIB is a world-leading center in life sciences and biotechnology, known for its excellent technology transfer. Its success is due to a unique blend of basic research and a strong focus on innovation and business. VIB is committed to driving the growth of the life sciences cluster in Flanders.

The VIB Technologies program (https://vibcoreprogram.sites.vib.be/en) is the institute's research infrastructure, offering access to cutting-edge technologies. It comprises 10 core facilities, each with specific technology expertise located in Ghent, Leuven, or Brussels. These facilities support VIB's 1700 researchers with over 100 staff members.

The VIB Bioimaging Core in Leuven is looking for an Electron Microscopy Specialist to oversee all supporting activities of the EM unit of the Bioimaging Core in Leuven (https://bioimagingcore-leuven.sites.vib.be/en). The core offers access, support, consultancy, and training in light- and electron microscope and image processing and analysis. A team of motivated microscopists enables microscopy for the Leuven-based VIB community, in close collaboration with the Ghent-based team. The Head of Core is looking for a deputy to oversee the EM activities in Leuven.

VIB has several research focus areas, organized in different research centers. The VIB Bioimaging Core in Leuven is hosted by the Center for Brain and Disease Research (https://cbd.sites.vib.be/en#/). The successful candidate will be the first point of contact for consultation on EM requests and support users for experimental design, image acquisition, and analysis for EM applications, addressing cell and tissue biology.

Main activities

• Act as main point for EM consultancy in life science research environment.
• Discuss experimental setup, including sample preparation, acquisition preferences and image analysis possibilities with users and colleagues.
• Together with the Head of the facility, guide team members for day-to-day operations.
• Implement and adjust EM applications and workflows.
• Follow-up on ongoing support and development projects in the core.
• Support in CLEM projects.

Profile

• Master or Ph.D. in Biomedical or Biological Sciences or equivalent through experience.
• Extensive experience in electron microscopy applications, and sample preparation, in life science research is required.
• Mindset for supporting and enabling science of other research labs through offering of expertise.
• Technology minded.
• Team player with strong social, communication and didactic skills.
• Well-organized, structured, and able to autonomously plan and execute tasks.
• Meticulous and self-motivated.
• Can thrive in a fast-evolving environment.
• Good English skills, both oral and written.
• The following can be an asset:
  • Experience in working in a microscopy core facility.
  • Experience in supervising a small team.
  • Experience in follow-up of life science research projects.
  • Interest/expertise in CLEM applications.

We offer

• Stimulating international work environment in a great team
• Access to state-of-the-art infrastructure
• Open-ended contract
• Competitive salary and benefits

How to apply?

Motivated candidates are asked to apply online. 

Questions can be directed to Technologies@vib.be

A complete application file (English) should contain the following documents:

• your cover/motivation letter
• your CV
• 2 references