Scientific Lab Technician
Location: Leiden, The Netherlands.
Job Category: Research
About the company
Our client is a pioneering biotech company developing a next generation manufacturing platform for gene therapy. Their fully cell free system enables rapid and high yield production of AAV vectors, achieving 100% capsid filling in just a few hours. This breakthrough offers a step change in efficiency, consistency, and clinical readiness.
By combining molecular biology, process innovation, and advanced automation, the company is addressing one of the biggest bottlenecks in gene therapy today. Their platform is designed to reduce cost per dose, speed up development timelines, and enable broader access to high quality AAV-based therapies.
This is a mission driven team of scientists and engineers building the tools that will power the future of gene therapy. If you are excited by hands on work, creative problem solving, and the chance to help scale transformative science, this is your opportunity.
Purpose of the role
As a Laboratory Technician, you will support the development and optimization of a scalable, cell free manufacturing platform for AAV-based gene therapy. You will play a key role in executing experiments, supporting automation efforts, and ensuring the laboratory runs smoothly.
This is a hands on position ideal for someone with strong technical skills, attention to detail, and a passion for innovative science.
You will work closely with scientists and engineers to carry out molecular assays, support analytical workflows, and contribute to the continuous improvement of lab operations. This is an exciting opportunity to grow within a fast paced biotech company at the intersection of process development, molecular biology, and lab automation.
Key responsibilities
Execute and support molecular biology and bioprocess experiments with precision and consistency
Operate and help optimize liquid handling systems and laboratory automation tools
Perform routine analytical techniques such as qPCR, ELISA, cell based assays, DNA and protein analysis
Maintain accurate and organized records in electronic lab notebooks
Assist in drafting and updating experimental protocols and technical reports
Support lab operations, including inventory management, equipment maintenance, and reagent preparation
Collaborate with the team to troubleshoot issues, improve workflows, and implement process changes
Ensure lab safety standards are met and contribute to a clean and efficient work environment
Share expertise with colleagues and support onboarding of new team members
Stay informed about advances in automation and analytical technologies relevant to gene therapy manufacturing
Requirements
Mandatory qualification and experience:
A BSc or higher in molecular biology, biotechnology, biochemistry, bioengineering, bioprocessing or a related field
Practical and solid hands-on experience in Molecular biology techniques such as (q)(d)PCR, ELISA, cell-based assays, DNA/protein analysis.
Bioprocessing techniques such as fermentation or cell culture, TFF, chromatography, or formulation.
Familiarity with liquid handling systems or automated lab equipment
Strong documentation skills and proficiency with Microsoft Office
Excellent written and spoken English
A proactive and organized approach to lab work, with strong attention to detail
Enthusiasm for problem solving and continuous learning
Nice-to-have skills:
Experience with viral vectors, especially AAV
Background in cell culture, fermentation, TFF, chromatography, or formulation
Previous experience in a start-up or biopharma setting
Intermediate or higher Python skills, especially for data handling or automation scripting
Hands on experience with advanced lab automation tools or custom protocols
Familiarity with process analytical technologies (PAT)
Bayesian optimisation
Company culture
This company was built by scientists who chose to challenge the status quo. Starting from scratch, they focused on purpose, speed, and building something that truly matters. The team is small, sharp, and fully committed to excellence.
There are no empty perks or slogans here. What defines this culture is ownership, trust, and working with people you admire, learn from, and genuinely enjoy. It is a place where ambition meets humility, where ideas are challenged openly, and where progress is celebrated, whether solving a tough problem or sharing a drink at the end of the day.
If you thrive in a fast paced and mission driven environment where curiosity, discipline, and team spirit go hand in hand, you will feel right at home.