About the team/job
The European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) is one of the highest-ranked scientific research organisations in the world. The Headquarters Laboratory is located in Heidelberg (Germany), with additional sites in Barcelona (Spain), Grenoble (France), Hamburg (Germany), Hinxton (UK), and Rome (Italy).
The EMBL Epigenetics and Neurobiology Unit in Rome is supported by onsite state-of-the-art core facilities in histology, genetics and viral engineering, flow cytometry, microscopy, gnotobiosis, and a gene editing and embryology facility (GEEF).
The operation of the GEEF Facility is dedicated to the generation of genetically modified mice and stem cells as well as ancillary services for internal and external users. Techniques used include both CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing via embryo microinjection and the generation of chimeric mice from targeted ES cells.
Further information about research and core facilities at the Rome Unit and EMBL can be found on the EMBL web page.
Your role
EMBL is looking for a Technical Officer / Microinjectionist to join the Gene Editing and Embryology Facility at the unit near Rome, Italy.
The person appointed will be part of a high-standard service facility generating genetically modified mouse lines for EMBL research groups and collaborating partners. The successful candidate will be expected to organize and conduct all daily procedures related to transgenic and knock-in/knock-out mouse production. This will include pronuclear injection of CRISPR reagents and DNA templates, microinjection of ES cells, and embryo transfer (oviductal and uterine). The duties will also involve mouse husbandry activities such as superovulation, vasectomies, and when required rederivation of mouse lines into the SPF barrier facility. The candidate will also contribute to the initial design of new transgenic lines and then later, the required genotyping and sequence confirmation.
The candidate will be embedded within a team assisting with other embryo manipulation techniques related to gamete cryopreservation, IVF, and gene editing mES cells, which may require some flexibility with working hours. They will interact with a senior manager as required to troubleshoot production problems and assist with the collection and organization of experimental data.
You have
The candidate should either be a trained technician or have equivalent education and have experience in working with mice and in the generation of novel genetically modified lines. Extensive and successful hands-on experience with microinjection of DNA and mES cells, preparation of reagents for microinjection, and embryo transfer are essential.
The candidate should be able to work both independently and in close collaboration with the other group members. They should be highly motivated with good communication and organizational skills. English is the working language.
You might also have
Desirable skills would include a good understanding of relevant molecular biology techniques, such as PCR, restriction enzyme ligation, CRISPR/Cas9 gRNA selection, and experience with DNA editing software and in silico design.
Why join us
EMBL is an inclusive, equal opportunity employer offering attractive conditions and benefits appropriate to an international research organisation. The remuneration package comprises a competitive salary, a comprehensive pension scheme and health insurance, educational and other family related benefits where applicable, as well as financial support for relocation and installation.
We have an informal culture, international working environment and excellent professional development opportunities but one of the really amazing things about us is the concentration of technical and scientific expertise – something you probably won’t find anywhere else.
What else you need to know
We are Europe’s flagship research laboratory for the life sciences – an intergovernmental organisation performing scientific research in disciplines including molecular biology, physics, chemistry and computer science. We are an international, innovative and interdisciplinary laboratory with 1700 employees from many nations operating across six sites, in Heidelberg (DE, headquarters), Barcelona (ES), Cambridge (UK), Hamburg (DE), Grenoble (FR) and Rome (IT).
Our mission is to perform basic research in molecular biology; to offer vital services to scientists in the member states; to train scientists, students and visitors at all levels; to develop new instruments and methods in the life sciences whilst actively engaging in technology transfer activities, and to help integrate European life science research at all levels.
To apply please submit a covering letter and CV through our online system.