Research Technician Protein Assays

ProQR Therapeutics is a NASDAQ-listed biotechnology company headquartered in Leiden, the Netherlands, with an office in Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA.
At ProQR, we are on a mission to edit RNA, treat disease, and change lives. A team of 180+ enthusiastic ProQRians from all walks of life and more than 30 different nationalities is committed to pioneering transformative RNA therapies 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), a protein that is 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. By harnessing the power of RNA editing, we aim to create a world where genetics inform your health - but never limit it.

Our Research department is currently looking for a Research Technician (Full-time) to join our Protein Assay team.

About the Protein Assay Team

The Protein Assay team is responsible for developing and executing protein and functional assays across ProQR’s R&D portfolio. We translate changes at the RNA level into robust protein and functional readouts that support project decisions and the generation of high-quality preclinical data.

Our work spans assay development, optimization and execution using a diverse array of molecular, cellular, and biophysical methodologies. Working in a matrix organization, we collaborate closely with Project Leads and other functional teams, while continuously improving assay quality, standardization, throughput and automation.

About the role

We are looking for an experienced and hands-on Researcher to join our Protein Assay team. In this role, you will independently perform protein and functional assay work across multiple research projects and contribute to assay development, optimization and troubleshooting, in consultation with other (senior) researchers and scientists.

You will analyze and interpret experimental data, identify technical challenges and propose solutions, and communicate findings to Scientists, project teams and other stakeholders. You will contribute to study design, SOPs and technical documentation and help ensure robust and reproducible assay performance across projects.

The role requires someone who enjoys combining high-quality experimental work with scientific problem-solving and who can adapt to changing project priorities within a multidisciplinary research environment.

Location: Leiden, NL (on-site)

We expect our Research Technician to have:

• An MSc degree with approximately 2–3 years of relevant experience, or a BSc/HBO degree with approximately 2–5 years of relevant experience in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Biomedical Sciences or a related life science discipline (preferably in industry).

• Strong hands-on experience with protein, biochemical and/or functional assays.

• Experience with techniques such as Western blotting, automated Western blotting, ELISA or other immunoassays, microscopy/imaging, cell-based functional assays or related technologies.

• Experience with assay optimization, troubleshooting and interpretation of experimental data.

• The ability to independently plan and execute experimental work while managing activities across multiple projects.

• A good understanding of experimental controls, assay robustness, reproducibility and data quality.

• Experience contributing to study designs, SOPs, technical documentation and scientific presentations.

• Effective verbal and written communication skills in English.

Experience with protein biology in disease-relevant models, CNS or liver biology, imaging-based assays, automation and/or high-throughput assay workflows would be considered a strong advantage.

Skills and competencies that are required for making the difference:

• Strong experimental and troubleshooting skills

• Proactive and solution-oriented

• Quality-focused

• Flexible and adaptable

• Strong team player

• Critical thinking, decision-making, and problem-solving skills

• Excellent communication skills (in English)

• A nice person :)

ProQR as an employer

As an employer, we value a diverse workforce in which people are encouraged to develop themselves both personally and professionally. We believe that when people are happy, energized and supported by an environment in which they can thrive, they can achieve extraordinary things.

We are committed to ensuring 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 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, Coffee and Collaboration Café and other social events)

We are looking for people who are inspired by our mission to edit RNA, treat disease and change lives. Are you up for the challenge?

Submit your application via the Apply button below. Please contact Silvia Catellani via recruitment@proqr.com if you have any questions.

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