VIB is globally recognized as a leading knowledge hub in life sciences and biotechnology, renowned for its excellence in technology transfer. Its success stems from a unique blend of strategic fundamental research and a strong emphasis on innovation and business development. VIB is deeply committed to driving the growth of the thriving life sciences cluster in Flanders.

The VIB Technologies program serves as the centralized scientific research infrastructure of the institute, providing scientists with access to cutting-edge, innovative technologies. It includes a team of over 120 staff and 16 state-of-the-art core facilities, each focused on specific technologies and located across VIB sites in Ghent, Leuven, Antwerp and Brussels. These core facilities play a crucial role in supporting VIB's +1,900 researchers with their expertise and advanced resources.

The VIB Metabolomics Core in Ghent (https://metabolomicscore-gent.sites.vib.be/en) offers advanced metabolomics services using techniques like mass spectrometry (MS) and chromatography (LC and GC). It supports both discovery (untargeted) and targeted metabolomics, including compound purification, aiding researchers in fields such as biotechnology, plant and medical research. The core also provides bioinformatics tools for data analysis, integrating metabolomic findings with other omics data. Collaborative research and training are key offerings. This facility drives interdisciplinary research through its expertise in metabolomics.

The successful candidate will report to the Head of the Metabolomics Core and assist the team in Ghent with high-resolution Gas Chromatography applications (GC-MS), including sample preparation and customization of data processing workflows.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to the day-to-day operations of the VIB Metabolomics Core.
• Conduct essential wet lab tasks for sample preparation in low and high-resolution GC mass spectrometry analyses, including untargeted data processing and reporting
• Perform routine maintenance and quality control on equipment to ensure optimal performance.
• Implement advanced data processing tools, such as molecular networking (GNPS and other online platforms), into the existing workflow.

Requirements

• You hold a degree in laboratory science or have equivalent relevant experience.
• You have some years of experience with GC-MS data acquisition and processing
• You have a strong service-oriented attitude.
• You are proficient in fundamental laboratory techniques.
• Programming skills in R or Python are an advantage.
• You are eager to learn new methodologies, broaden your expertise, and take on responsibilities.
• You are detail-oriented, highly organized, flexible, and proactive.
• You excel at accurately compiling and documenting your work.
• You thrive in an international, collaborative environment.
• You approach tasks with a critical and constructive mindset.
• You have fluency in English.
You are an excellent team player.

We offer

• Work location: TechLane in Zwijnaarde (Ghent).
• Competitive salary package.
• Opportunity to build expertise in metabolomics within a robust network of scientific collaborators.
Engage in diverse research projects, apply various methodologies, and work with cutting-edge technologies.

How to apply?

Please complete the online application process, including your detailed CV and a brief motivational letter.

For more information or questions, please contact geert.goeminne@vib.be.