Laboratory technologist - INTERNAL VACANCY

INTERNAL VACANCY

The Institute of Tropical Medicine (ITM) in Antwerp is a leading independent academic centre for research and innovation, education, and clinical services in the fields of public health, global health, and tropical medicine.

Founded in 1906, ITM’s research today focuses on disease prevention, control and elimination, emerging infections and outbreaks, and sustainable and equitable health systems, with antimicrobial resistance integrated across all research themes.

The Helminthology Unit (HU) is looking for an inquisitive laboratory technologist with a sense of initiative, a keen interest in fieldwork and a willingness to get their hands dirty in an effort to tackle parasitic diseases to join the team.

Our unit focuses on research, education and services, on the diagnosis, epidemiology and control of helminth NTDs in low- or middle-income countries. The HU is currently coordinating a number of projects with extensive collaborations with partners in the South and establishing new models to study vector- and host-parasite interactions.

Would you like to help make a difference within our team? Apply now for the position of laboratory technologist.

Your responsibilities:

-          You are responsible for the planning and organization of daily activities in the laboratory in accordance with quality requirements.

-          You will perform various laboratory techniques (parasitology, serology, haematology, molecular biology and mass spec. sample prep).

-          You are involved in the work of the national reference laboratory (NRL) for Trichinella (including parasite recovery, diagnostic procedures and quality-controlled laboratory workflows) and the establishment of the life-cycle of Brugia Malayi (including vector and animal work)

-          You are willing to master new laboratory techniques and methodologies.

-          You will maintain laboratory databases, sample inventories and laboratory documentation to ensure accurate traceability and quality assurance.

-          You assist with data entry and verification.

-          You assist scientists in handling laboratory animals and processing animal-derived samples for parasitological research.

-          You place orders and organise shipments to partners in developing countries.

-          You comply with quality control and safety procedures.

-          You travel abroad as part of collaborative programmes to participate in laboratory and field activities, including sample collection, processing and implementation of standard laboratory protocols.

-          You will support the research and capacity building activities of the Unit.

-          You assist students and trainees with hands-on and practical laboratory work.

-          You will inform yourself about relevant scientific and technical developments. 

Your profile:

-          You hold a Bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Laboratory Technology or any relevant diploma. (in Belgium: medische laboratoriumtechnologie, farmaceutische/biologische laboratoriumtechnologie).

-          A degree in laboratory animal science (BCLAS) is a plus.

-          Experience in maintenance of laboratory equipment is a plus.

-          You like to work with international teams.

-          You are conscientious and have good analytical skills.

-          You have high integrity and enthusiasm, are willing to take responsibility, admit mistakes when they occur, and most importantly help those around you to achieve our shared goals as a team.

-          You have a demonstrable interest in parasitology, helminths and tropical infectious diseases.

-          You have a willingness to handle and process human and animal samples (including blood, faecal material, animal intestines, etcetera) in the hunt for parasitic worms.

-          You can accurately perform laboratory analyses following established protocols while working both independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.

-          Experience with laboratory organisation, inventory management or sample tracking is an asset.

-          Experience with PCR, nucleic acid extraction or related molecular biology techniques is an asset.

-          You have good communication skills.

-          You have a good knowledge of English; Knowledge of French and Dutch is an asset.

-          You support the mission and values of the ITM.

Offer

The Institute of Tropical Medicine is committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive work environment. Through your role, you will contribute to ITM’s socially relevant mission.

We highly value human dignity and diversity, academic creativity, and a critical mindset, with a strong focus on solidarity and collaboration. The wellbeing of our staff, students, patients, and clients is central to everything we do.

We offer:

-          A part-time position (FTE 80% - 30 hours per week) fixed-term contract for 1 year, potentially renewable. Start date as soon as possible.

-          A collegial and supportive working environment with attention to work-life balance, individual growth, and professional development.

-          A culture of continuous feedback and open dialogue, with regular check-ins and coaching, as well as an annual appraisal cycle that supports development and salary progression.

-          A workplace in the heart of the vibrant city of Antwerp, easily accessible by public transport and bicycle.

-          Office hours from Monday to Friday, based on a 37,50-hour work week.

-          A salary based on your relevant professional experience. ITM applies Hay salary scales. This position is classified in Hay scale 11, with a minimum gross salary of 3124,34 euro (index 02/2026).

-          Additional benefits include bicycle compensation, bicycle leasing and/or public transport subscription, meal vouchers, and a supplementary pension scheme.