Research Technician (Molecular Biology)

ProQR Therapeutics is a biotechnology company listed on NASDAQ with offices in Leiden, the Netherlands and Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA. ProQR is focused on the development of life changing RNA therapies to meet the unmet need of individuals and families with common and rare diseases. A team of 150+ enthusiastic ProQRians from all walks of life and more than 30 different nationalities is up to this challenge. We have the passion and commitment to make a difference in the lives of the communities we serve. Our proprietary Axiomer® RNA editing technology platform enables the editing of specific single nucleotides in RNA using the cells own editing machinery. Axiomer® RNA editing technology harnesses ADAR (Adenosine Deaminase Acting on RNA), which is machinery present in all human cells to repair G-to-A mutations, modulate protein, and enable protective mutation functions. Axiomer could potentially yield a new class of innovative medicines and treat currently untreatable diseases.

Our R&D department is currently looking for an experienced Research Technician to join our team in Leiden. In collaboration with other multi-disciplinary team members, the research technician (molecular biology) will investigate interactions that regulate EON-mediated editing and will work closely together with other (Senior) Research Technicians and Scientists.

We expect our Research technician to have:

• At least an HLO/BSc degree in life science or molecular biology with a minimum of 2 years working experience (preferably in industry)

• Experience with culture of primary cells and cell lines

• Experience with RNA analysis techniques, e.g. RNA isolation, cDNA synthesis, (digital) PCR, RT-qPCR, sample preparation for RNA Sequencing, ribonuclease assay

• Experience with protein analysis techniques, e.g. Western blot, immunocytochemistry and ELISA

• Basic knowledge of RNA biology and modifications

Key Responsibilities:

• Design, plan and execute experiments

• Contribute to optimization of methods and protocols for RNA analysis

• Critically analyze data from experiments and report these in an electronic lab journal

• Contribute to laboratory organization and related administrative tasks

Skills and competencies that are required for making the difference:

• Analytical and accurate

• Flexible and adaptable

• Being able to prioritize multiple tasks

• Pro-active and pragmatic self-starter, with a result-oriented mindset

• Team player

• Autonomous and coachable

• Being able to work in a fast-paced environment

• Creative thinker

• Patient-oriented attitude

• Excellent knowledge of spoken and written English

• A nice person 😊

ProQR as an employer

As an employer, we are a true believer of the value of a workforce in which people from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to develop themselves, personally and professionally. We believe that happy and energized people, working well together in an environment in which they thrive, will do phenomenal and awesome things.

We are committed to ensure that no employee, candidate, or job applicant receives less favorable treatment on the grounds of race, age, disability, pregnancy, religion, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, marriage or civil partnership status. At ProQR we want to create an inclusive culture where everyone can be valued for who they are and in which individual differences and the contributions in all forms are recognized and valued.

We offer an exciting and innovative working environment in a very committed organization, with the following benefits:

• 8% holiday allowance

• 30 vacation days

• An annual performance bonus

• Stock options

• A premium-free pension plan

• A commuting allowance

• A subsidized staff restaurant

• Unlimited (un)healthy snacks and drinks

• Employee events (boot camp, Rebel Café and other social events)

Do you think you can contribute to achieving our mission? If so, we’re looking forward to receiving your application by filling out our application form.

You can contact Silvia Catellani via recruitment@proqr.com if you have any questions.