Flow Cytometry Specialist

VIB UAntwerp Center for Molecular Neurology seeks Flow Cytometry Specialist to profile gut brain immune cells in neurodegeneration via spectral cytometry.

The Laboratory for Gut-Immune-Brain Axis Research led by Sebastiaan De Schepper at VIB-UAntwerp Center for Molecular Neurology, is recruiting a full-time flow cytometry specialist to profile immune cell populations along the gut–brain axis in both mouse models and human samples. The lab runs multiple exciting projects investigating how tissue-resident and trafficking immune cells along the gut–brain axis contribute to the onset and progression of neurodegenerative diseases.

We are seeking a motivated and technically skilled flow cytometry technician with expertise in spectral flow cytometry, including the design, optimization, and analysis of complex high-parameter panels. You will take a leading role in driving multiple projects and serve as a core resource for the team by supporting, training, and advising researchers. The work will involve diverse and challenging samples from both mouse models and human tissues.

Main responsibilities

• Develop and implement high-dimensional spectral flow cytometry workflows, from panel design to data interpretation
• Oversee daily instrument operations, including quality control, maintenance, stock management, and protocol standardization
• Provide hands-on experimental support to researchers across the lab, assisting with study design, sample preparation, acquisition, analysis, and data visualization
• Oversee tissue processing workflows, including isolation, digestion, and optimization of single-cell suspensions for reliable immune profiling
• Lead antibody validation, titration strategies, and troubleshooting to improve panel performance and reproducibility
• Training, mentoring, and advising new and existing lab members
• Ensure accurate documentation of experiments and communicate progress and findings regularly with the PI and senior postdocs
• Assist with broader lab operations, including oversight of mouse colonies, reagent stocks, and general laboratory logistics

Your profile

Essential Requirements

• You hold a bachelor’s or professional degree in life sciences, biomedical sciences, or bio/industrial engineering, with hands-on laboratory experience
• You have expertise in spectral flow cytometry, including multicolour panel design, optimization, and data analysis (e.g., FlowJo or similar software)
• You have experience with analysing both human and murine samples
• You are interested in supporting scientific research and multiple projects
• You are highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple experiments and priorities simultaneously
• You are comfortable working independently while also contributing actively within a collaborative team environment
• You are proactive, solution-oriented, and eager to troubleshoot and improve workflows
• You are able to independently lead and coordinate cytometry-focused projects from planning to completion
• You are a good communicator with strong written and spoken English skills
• You are flexible, and comfortable working in a dynamic, international research setting

Desirable Requirements

• PhD in biomedical sciences, neuroscience, immunology, or a related field
• Experience working with mouse models (FELASA B or C)
• Programming skills in R and/or Python
• Willing to lead projects independently

Our offer

• Full-time position – We will initially start with a fixed term contract of one year, with the opportunity to extend.
• A central position and exciting job in a dynamic, innovative and motivated team of scientists
• The opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research in an inspiring, supportive and international environment.
• Professional development through regular mentorship, training opportunities, and collaborative projects.
• A competitive salary package and a stimulating work environment within the VIB-Center for Molecular Neurology.
• Access to cutting-edge technologies and techniques
• Hospitalization insurance
• Pension plan
• If you come to the lab by public transport; full reimbursement
• If you come to the lab by bike; bike allowance of €0.30/km
• Eco-cheques
• Internet fee
• Closing week between Christmas and New Year
• Starting date: as soon as possible

How to apply

You can apply for this job through our online job portal (Apply for Flow Cytometry Specialist – VIB). Be sure to include the following attachments:

• a detailed CV
• a letter of motivation explaining why you are interested in our work and aspire the position of flow cytometry specialist
• contact details of referees (if available)

As part of the VIB-UAntwerp Center for Molecular Neurology and VIB, the applicant will benefit from established collaborations and access to centralized facilities with expertise in genomics, functional genomics and cell biology, proteomics, cutting-edge microscopy, structural biology, technology development, and bioinformatics.

VIB provides a highly interactive environment and ample training opportunities for its researchers. In addition, the VIB-UAntwerp Center for Molecular Neurology is located in the city of Antwerp, the capital of Flanders, offering a culturally and historically rich, and ethnically diverse environment.

Questions about this vacancy? Don’t hesitate to send an email to recruiting@vib.be