Research Technician - Molecular and Cell Biology

European Molecular Biology Laboratory

Location: Heidelberg, Germany
Staff Category: Staff Member
Contract Duration: 3 years
Grading: 4
Closing Date: 27 April 2014
Reference Number: HD_00480

Job Description
The European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) is one of the highest ranked scientific research organisations in the world. The Headquarters Laboratory is located in Heidelberg (Germany), with additional sites in Grenoble (France), Hamburg (Germany), Hinxton (UK) and Monterotondo (Italy).

The Network of Excellence "Systems Microscopy – a key enabling methodology for next-generation systems biology" aims at making systems biology of individual, living cells possible. It uses powerful, newly emerging imaging technologies to capture data, in four dimensions, on dynamic events such as cell division and cell migration. The work within the network at EMBL focuses on developing (i) quantitative 4D imaging and fluorescence correlation spectroscopy as new high-throughput technology platforms to extract biophysical and biochemical parameters from fluorescently tagged functional transgenes in human cells during cell division and (ii) dynamical data-based modeling of cell cycle processes, with many exciting novel questions in applied statistics and bioinformatics linking theory and experiment. The "Systems microscopy" Network of Excellence is funded under the 7th framework programme of the European Commission and brings together 8 organizations from 7 countries.

EMBL is looking for a research technician to join the group of Jan Ellenberg in the Cell Biology and Biophysics Unit. The Ellenberg group focuses on systems biology approaches to cell division using advanced live cell microscopy techniques. The position is sponsored by the Network of Excellence “Systems Microscopy”, a project funded by the 7th Framework Programme of the European Commission. The position holder will contribute to the research objectives of the project and his/her tasks will include the following:

• perform human genome engineering to tag endogenous proteins with fluorescent proteins
• generate and characterize human cell lines in which endogenous proteins are fluorescently tagged
• acquire standardized time-lapse fluorescence microscopy of dividing cells
• acquire standardized FCCS data of dividing cells

The work involves engineering genomic sequences, establishment and characterization of stable cell lines, and high throughput fluorescence imaging of living cells.

Qualifications and ExperienceApplicants should have an appropriate university degree or an education as a research technician. An extensive experience in mammalian cell culture is essential as well as in-depth knowledge of the molecular engineering techniques and of confocal fluorescence microscopy. The successful candidate should be able to work independently, be very well organized and reliable and enjoy working in an international team within a highly collaborative atmosphere. Excellent communication skills and fluency in English are required.

Application InstructionsPlease apply online through the Apply button below.

Additional InformationEMBL is an inclusive, equal opportunity employer offering attractive conditions and benefits appropriate to an international research organisation.

Please note that appointments on fixed term contracts can be renewed, depending on circumstances at the time of the review.