Associate Scientist

Associate Scientist (Cell Biology & Virology) | 6-Month Maternity Cover | Boxmeer

About the Company

Our client is a leading global research-driven organisation operating at the forefront of animal health innovation. With a major research and development presence in the Netherlands, they are dedicated to advancing next-generation vaccines, biological therapies, and technologies that improve the health and wellbeing of animals worldwide.

Within their multidisciplinary Discovery & Technology Research division, scientists from a range of specialisms, including virology, bacteriology, immunology, molecular biology, and vaccine development, work together to translate innovative research into future healthcare solutions. Due to maternity leave, they are seeking an Associate Scientist to join the team on a 6-month contract basis.

About the Role

As an Associate Scientist, you will support innovative research projects focused on cell line development, cell culture technologies, and early-stage vaccine research. Working within a collaborative research environment, you will contribute to the planning, execution, and delivery of laboratory studies aimed at advancing novel biological platforms and improving pathogen and antigen production systems.

This is a hands-on laboratory position where you will work closely with project leaders and cross-functional scientific teams, applying cell biology, molecular biology, and virology techniques to support ongoing research programmes.

Responsibilities

• Plan, execute, and document laboratory experiments in accordance with project objectives.
• Support research and technology development projects focused on cell biology, cell culture, and related technologies.
• Maintain, expand, and coordinate mammalian and/or avian cell culture systems using aseptic techniques.
• Perform and support cell-based, molecular, and virological assays, including flow cytometry, transfections, infection assays, and qPCR analysis.
• Contribute to research activities involving modern cell engineering and cell culture platform development.
• Accurately analyse, record, and communicate experimental results to project leaders and stakeholders.
• Ensure all laboratory activities are conducted in compliance with Good Laboratory Practice (GLP), Environment, Health & Safety (EHS), and company standards.
• Collaborate effectively with colleagues across multiple scientific disciplines to achieve project objectives.

What You'll Need to Succeed

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Cell Biology, Virology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or a related Life Sciences discipline.
• Hands-on experience with mammalian and/or avian cell culture techniques is essential for this role.
• Practical experience with molecular biology methods such as qPCR, transfection techniques, or CRISPR-based technologies would be advantageous.
• Exposure to virology techniques, including infection assays, virus propagation, or virus titration, is highly desirable.
• Interest in vaccine development, biologics, or animal health research.
• Knowledge of GLP, laboratory quality standards, and safety regulations is beneficial.
• Strong organisational and documentation skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a research environment.
• Excellent communication skills and a collaborative mindset.
• Fluent English communication skills; Dutch is considered an advantage.

What to Do Next

If you're interested in this opportunity, click "Apply Now" to submit your application. For further information, please contact the Hays Life Sciences team.