About the position

A fixed term position (2 years, with the possibility for extension) is available at NCMM as a laboratory manager. The position will be placed as a principal engineer (SKO 1085) or a head engineer (SKO 1087), depending on qualifications.

We are looking for an experienced laboratory manager to help us set up two newly established laboratories in NCMM: The CRISPR gene therapy group (Emma Haapaniemi, MD, PhD) and the Immunogenetics group (Janna Saarela, Professor, Centre Director).

In this start up period, we need extra hands to get these two labs up and running. We are looking for someone to purchase and set up new lab equipment, train our new students in basic molecular biology techniques and to establish good routines for purchase, cleanliness and order in the labs.

The CRISPR gene therapy group aims to build a gene editing platform that can be used to correct patient-specific mutations in ex vivo cell therapies for rare genetic childhood diseases. We will use high-throughput biology techniques to optimize, develop and understand the CRISPR-Cas system that forms the base of the platform, and develop and implement methods to evaluate its safety in a clinical setting. Our goal is to use the modified gene editing technologies for the benefit of the patients in the adjacent children’s hospital.

The immunogenetics group aims to identify novel genes linked to immune dysregulation, immunodeficiency and hematological malignancies. We will use multiple omics methods to identify the causative and predisposing genetic variants, as well as molecular genomics and cell biology methods to elucidate their biological and immunological consequences. We work with cell models, primary patient cells and iPS cells to further understand the mechanisms of the diseases.

Work tasks

• Purchases: Establish common routines for purchase and ordering laboratory equipment.
• Establish routines for keeping the benches, fridges and freezers organized and reasonably clean.
• Establish routines for good and safe use of equipment.
• Helping in the daily administrative work.
• Perform and assist in wetlab experiments.
• Participate in training of new students in basic molecular biology techniques, such as cell culture, Western blotting, PCR, and agarose gels.

Qualification requirements

• BA in biochemistry or related field, experience from similar work can replace this formal requirements as long as the candidate can document the ability to master tasks at the relevant level.
• Documented experience as a laboratory manager.
• Fluent oral and written communication skills in English.

The following qualifications will count in the assessment of the applicants:

• Experience in Next Generation Sequencing library preparation for Illumina systems.
• Experience in multi-color flow cytometry and cell sorting.
• Experience in protein production and purification in insect or mammalian systems.
• Experience in high-throughput biology platforms.

Personal skills

• Organized, meticulous and independent.
• Good communicator.
• Willing to learn new skills as the laboratory grows and techniques evolve.
• Ability to work in a team.

We offer

• salary NOK 428 500 – 497 000 per annum depending on qualifications in a position as Principal Engineer, position code 1085
• salary NOK 480 600 – 576 100 per annum depending on qualifications in a position as Head Engineer, position code 1087
• attractive welfare benefits and a generous pension agreement, in addition to Oslo’s family-friendly environment with its rich opportunities for culture and outdoor activities

How to apply

The application must include:

• cover letter statement of motivation
• CV (summarizing education, positions and academic work)
• copies of educational certificates (academic transcripts only)
• documentation of english proficiency
• list of reference persons: 2-3 references (name, relation to candidate, e-mail and phone number)

The application with attachments must be delivered in our recruiting system.

Formal regulations

Interviews with the best qualified candidates will be arranged.

According to the Norwegian Freedom and Information Act (Offentleglova) information about

the applicant may be included in the public applicant list, also in cases where the applicant has requested non-disclosure.

Contact information

• Group leader: Emma Haapaniemi, phone number: +47-22840508, e-mail: emma.haapaniemi@ncmm.uio.no
• Group leader: Janna Saarela, phone number: +47-22840553, e-mail: janna.saarela@ncmm.uio.no
• HR adviser: Ragni Indahl, phone number: +47-22845654, e-mail: ragni.indahl@ncmm.uio.no

Apply for position