Research Analyst - #55552

About Your Role

You will contribute to leading translational malaria research, ranging from preclinical experiments to clinical studies. The research focuses on developing next-generation malaria vaccines and interventions. Working in a multidisciplinary research team, you will operate at the intersection of molecular parasitology, immunology and clinical research. You will collaborate closely with research analysts, PhD candidates and physician-scientists, contributing to both laboratory research and study-related activities.

Your Main Responsibilities Are

• Conduct experimental infection studies in rodent models, including Plasmodium berghei challenge infections, sporozoite immunisation experiments and in vivo imaging.
• Set up, optimise and validate laboratory assays, including PCR/qPCR, ELISA, intracellular cytokine staining/flow cytometry and parasite quantification assays.
• Perform molecular, immunological and cell biological assays and work with both Plasmodium berghei and Plasmodium falciparum.
• Support translational clinical studies, collaborate within national and international malaria research consortia, and record, analyse and report research data in accordance with Good Research Practice (GRP) guidelines.
  
  

About Your Workplace

The Malaria Group is part of the Leiden University Center for Infectious Diseases (LUCID). The research group is internationally recognised for its work on malaria parasite biology, immunology and vaccine development.

Within LUCID, research spans the entire translational research pipeline, from fundamental studies on malaria parasites to the clinical evaluation of novel whole-parasite vaccination strategies. The group plays a leading role in the development and characterisation of live-attenuated malaria vaccines and investigates the immune mechanisms that provide protection against Plasmodium falciparum infection.

About You

A proactive and collaborative attitude is essential for this position. You work accurately, maintain high quality standards and easily adapt within a multidisciplinary and international research team. You enjoy thinking critically, work in a structured manner and are motivated to contribute to high-quality scientific research.

In Addition, You Have

• A completed bachelor's degree (HBO) or equivalent qualification in Life Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, Biotechnology, Medical Biology or a related field.
• A valid licence to work with laboratory animals (Article 12 certification under the Dutch Experiments on Animals Act or an equivalent qualification).
• Hands-on experience in a biomedical or infectious diseases laboratory and experience working in a scientific research environment.
• Experience with one or more of the following techniques: molecular biology, cell culture, flow cytometry, microscopy or immunological assays, knowledge of Good Research Practice (GRP), experience with data analysis, and excellent written and spoken English. Proficiency in Dutch is considered an advantage.
  
  

Our offer

Driven by health; that is our mission. This applies not only to our patients, but also to our employees. We are committed to creating a safe, inclusive and equitable working environment where talent development and collaborative leadership are central. To support your professional growth, we offer internal training courses and continuing education opportunities. In addition, you will receive an 8.3% end-of-year bonus, holiday allowance, a bicycle scheme, sports allowance, home working allowance and an excellent commuting reimbursement scheme. As an LUMC employee, you will also be enrolled in the ABP pension fund. LUMC pays as much as 70% of your pension contribution, meaning you take home more net salary. A great benefit.

See all employment conditions of the LUMC.

What do we represent?

As an academic medical centre, LUMC strives for a workforce that reflects the diversity of society. We are committed to excellence in healthcare, education and (international) research, recognising that diverse perspectives are essential. Sustainability is also one of our key priorities: we are working towards a healthier future, not only for people but also for the planet. In line with these values, we aim to provide a creative and inspiring workplace where everyone feels welcome, safe and valued. We believe that what matters is who you are and what you contribute, regardless of your background. Together, we are building a sustainable and inclusive future for the people around us and for the world we live in. Together, we are LUMC.

More information

• As a research analyst, your salary ranges from €3,626 to €5,134 gross per month (scale 8, Collective Labour Agreement for University Medical Centres), based on a full-time appointment.
• The initial appointment is for one year or for the duration of the project, with the possibility of extension.
• A salary increase of 3.5% will take effect from 1 May 2027.
• The selection procedure consists of one or more interviews. Further information about the recruitment process will be provided after the application deadline.
• This vacancy is open to both internal and external candidates. In accordance with LUMC policy, internal candidates will be given preference in the event of equal suitability.
• Acquisition in response to this vacancy is not appreciated.