Research Assistant

science; Biological sciences » Biodiversity; Biological sciences » Biology Researcher Profile: Recognised Researcher (R2) Application Deadline: 4 Dec 2026 - 22:59 (UTC) Country: Netherlands Type of Contract: Temporary Job Status: Not Applicable Hours Per Week: 38.0 Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by a EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No Offer Description Toxic cyanobacterial blooms close swimming areas and threaten drinking-water supplies, so detecting them early matters. The CYANOSPECTRA project detects these organisms in lakes and waterways from the spectroscopic signatures of their photosynthetic machinery. In 2027 the project moves from the lab towards practice. As a researcher, you will help validate this technology together with partners from the water sector and academia, and contribute to laying the groundwork for a startup. Your duties collect water samples in the field and grow cultures of cyanobacteria and algae in the lab measure and analyse the fluorescence and absorption fingerprints of blooms test and validate the technology together with water managers and industry partners contribute to outreach and to the preparation of a startup Requirements Specific Requirements an MSc degree in biology, biophysics, environmental science, chemistry or a related field hands-on lab experience; experience with microalgae or cyanobacteria, or with absorption and fluorescence spectroscopy, is a plus experience with data analysis, for example in Python or R enthusiasm for working with people outside academia and for fieldwork good command of English As a university, we strive for equal opportunities for all, recognising that diversity takes many forms. We believe that diversity in all its complexity is invaluable for the quality of our teaching, research and service. We are always looking for talent with diverse backgrounds and experiences. This also means that we are committed to creating an inclusive community so that we can use diversity as an asset. We realise that each individual brings a unique set of skills, expertise and mindset. Therefore we are happy to invite anyone who recognises themselves in the profile to apply, even if you do not meet all the requirements. Additional Information Benefits Scale 10 (Researcher 4, €3,706–€5,760 gross per month), at least 0.8 FTE, for one year. You will join a small, friendly research group within Biophysics of Photosynthesis at LaserLaB, working where research, technology and real-world water management meet. You will gain hands-on experience of how a lab discovery becomes a product. Additional comments Are you interested in this position and do you believe that your experience will contribute to the further development of our university? In that case, we encourage you to submit your application. Submitting a diploma is part of the application process. Applications received by e-mail will not be considered. Acquisition in response to this advertisement is not appreciated. Work Location(s) Number of offers available: 1 Company/Institute: Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam Country: Netherlands City: Amsterdam Postal Code: 1081HZ Street: De Boelelaan 1100 Contact City: Amsterdam Website: http://www.vu.nl/ Street: De Boelelaan 1105 Postal Code: 1081 HV