Research Assistant / Laboratory Manager

Overview

The Department of Biomedicine (DBM) at the University of Basel and University Hospitals Basel combines basic and clinical science with over 67 research teams and 800+ staff across six facilities in Basel. Within this vibrant, international community, the Cancer Neuroimmunology group led by Prof. Karen Dixon seeks a Research Assistant / Laboratory Manager to support and manage laboratory operations and experiments.

Role Summary

This position offers a blend of hands-on experimental work and laboratory organizational responsibilities. Tasks will be tailored to the candidate's skills and interests, focusing on investigating neuron, immune cell, and stromal interactions in tumor microenvironments using mouse models, immunology, flow cytometry, molecular biology, imaging, and single-cell analysis.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day laboratory administration and coordination.
• Manage inventory of reagents, consumables, and lab supplies; place orders and liaise with vendors and institutional services.
• Maintain lab inventories, equipment logs, safety records, and shared protocols.
• Coordinate mouse colony management including genotyping and experimental scheduling.
• Develop and implement efficient lab workflows and maintain shared spaces.
• Onboard and train new lab members.
• Assist with administrative tasks including research project documentation and animal license management.
• Conduct experimental tasks supporting research, such as cell culture, molecular and cellular biology techniques, tissue processing and harvests, and preclinical tumor model studies as per training and expertise.
• Prepare laboratory buffers, media, and reagents, and maintain requisite stocks.
• Collaborate with researchers including PhD students and postdocs to optimize and document experimental protocols.

Candidate Profile

• Educational background as a biological laboratory technician, biomedical analyst, research technician, or degree in biology, biomedical sciences, immunology, or related fields.
• Prior experience in academic research laboratories is essential.
• Proficiency in managing and working with animal colonies.
• Strong multitasking and organizational capabilities.
• Commitment to shared lab responsibilities and promoting a teamwork-based research atmosphere.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• English fluency is mandatory; German skills are advantageous but optional.
• Laboratory management experience is beneficial but not a prerequisite. The role's duties can be adjusted based on candidate experience.

Opportunities and Benefits

• An engaging position combining research experimentation with lab management duties.
• Participation in a cutting-edge research program bridging cancer immunology and neuroscience.
• Collaborative, international, and supportive departmental environment.
• Networking with researchers across DBM and the University of Basel.
• Development prospects in technical, organizational, and project management skills.
• Significant autonomy to influence lab operations and processes.

Application Process

Applicants should provide a CV, a concise cover letter outlining relevant experience and motivation, references from two contacts, and pertinent certificates or qualifications. The selection process is ongoing until the position is filled.