Light Microscopy Technician (Research Technician, level 2-3)

Welcome to Maastricht University!
We are seeking a part-time (0.5 fte) light microscopy expert to strengthen our lab manager team, who will take care of the microscopy labs at MERLN: The Institute for Technology-Inspired Regenerative Medicine.

• Our goal: At MERLN, our mission is to advance the field of regenerative medicine by combining fundamental science and cutting-edge technology. We aim to translate our research into innovative solutions that can restore or replace damaged tissues and improve patient care.
• Your colleagues: You will join a diverse and international community of researchers, technical specialists, and support staff. At MERLN, collaboration across disciplines is key: you will work closely with biologists, engineers, and clinicians, as well as fellow technicians who ensure that our state-of-the-art laboratories run smoothly.

Light Microscopy Technician (Research Technician, level 2–3) at MERLN 
 

About the role
You will be responsible for light microscopy training, and for providing expertise in both microscopy operation and setting up imaging analysis pipelines. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in supporting our research projects by conducting experiments, analyzing data, and contributing to the development of novel regenerative medicine applications.

MERLN is an interdisciplinary institute interfacing fundamental science and technology with living systems.

Key responsibilities

• Perform microscopy according to established protocols.
• Develop new protocols and routines for advanced image acquisition and automated analysis.
• Maintain light microscopy equipment and ensure a safe and organized working environment. Make detailed proposals for improving work processes and elaborate design and development criteria.
• Provide professional training, support, and supervision to colleagues and young researchers (PhD students and postdoctoral researchers).
• Collaborate with researchers and scientists to design and execute experiments. This often requires original solutions, for which a unique approach and your well-founded opinions are crucial.
• Collect and analyze experimental data, help prepare reports, and contribute to research publications.
• Manage the microscopy laboratory, including inventory and relevant risk assessments.
• Liaise with the Microscopy Core Lab (MCL) at Maastricht University regarding advanced (light) microscopy setups also used by MERLN researchers.

What You Bring 
Qualifications

• Bachelor’s (WO or HBO) or Master’s degree in applied biology, biomedical engineering, or a related field.
• Strong light microscopy skills and experience with microscope maintenance and troubleshooting.
• Proficiency in setting up automated acquisition and pipelines for image analysis; experience with Nikon microscopes and analysis software is desirable.
• Familiarity with laboratory safety protocols (ML-1, ML-2) and good laboratory practices.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills (English is the working language of the institute).
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment.
• Enthusiasm for research in regenerative medicine; self-motivated, solution-oriented, and proactive.

Preferred qualifications

• Knowledge of light microscopy in biomedical concepts.
• Experience working in a highly collaborative environment.
• Familiarity with microscopy techniques such as brightfield and confocal microscopy as well as sample preparation. Knowledge of multiphoton microscopy and/or light sheet microscopy is a plus.
• Good command of image analysis software such as Fiji/ImageJ, Nikon NIS Elements, or other relevant software (or willingness to learn).

Do you like the idea of a versatile role where you can apply your microscopy expertise in a broader environment? Love imaging and always wondered how it can impact the future of medicine? If so, come join our team!

What we offer
As a Lab Technician at MERLN Institute, you will join the most international university in the Netherlands. We offer you:

• Good employment conditions. The position is graded in scale 9 or 10 according to UFO profile Research Technician (O-profile level 3–2), with corresponding salary based on experience ranging from €3708,00 and €5538,00 gross per month (based on a full-time employment of 38 hours per week). In addition to the monthly salary, an 8.0% holiday allowance and an 8.3% year-end bonus apply.
• An employment contract for a period of 12 months with a scope of 0.5 FTE. Upon proven suitability, the employment contract will be converted to an indefinite contract.
• 29 vacation days (full-time) and four additional days off.
• Flexible working hours, a home office allowance, and hybrid working options.
• Freedom and space to organize your work independently and develop your own ideas.
• A solid pension plan via ABP, access to company fitness schemes, and a wide range of sports facilities.
• An inspiring work environment in the heart of Europe.  
   

The terms of employment at Maastricht University are largely set out in the collective labor agreement of Dutch Universities. In addition, local provisions specific to UM apply. For more information, click here.

Maastricht University
Why work at Maastricht University?
At Maastricht University (UM), everything revolves around the future. The future of our students, as we work to equip them with a solid, broad-based foundation for the rest of their lives. And the future of society, as we seek solutions through our research to issues from all around the world. Our six faculties combined provide a comprehensive package of study programmes and research.

In our teaching, we use the Problem-Based Learning (PBL) method. Students work in small groups, looking for solutions to problems themselves. By discussing issues and working together to draw conclusions, formulate answers and present them to their peers, students develop essential skills for their future careers.

With over 22,300 students and more than 5,000 employees from all over the world, UM is home to a vibrant and inspiring international community.

Are you drawn to an international setting focused on education, science and scholarship? Are you keen to contribute however your skills and qualities allow? Our door is open to you! As a young European university, we value your talent and look forward to creating the future together.

Click here for more information about UM. 

Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences

FHML is dedicated to health in the broadest sense of the word: from molecule to human being, and from healthcare to prevention. We educate healthcare professionals and researchers through innovative study programmes, and conduct groundbreaking research in the field of health and well-being. As part of Maastricht UMC+ (MUMC+), our international and interdisciplinary community represents a unique collaboration between university and academic hospital, where education, research and healthcare come together.

About MERLN Institute
The MERLN Institute for Technology-Inspired Regenerative Medicine, founded in 2014, is dedicated to developing innovative approaches for tissue regeneration by combining biology, medicine, and engineering. MERLN employs over 130 scientists and support staff, working in state-of-the-art facilities with cutting-edge equipment.

Research expertise includes biomaterials, tissue engineering, cell biology, biofabrication, microfabrication, nanotechnology, bioinformatics, and computational modelling. MERLN collaborates closely with the Maastricht University Medical Centre, the Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, and the Faculty of Science and Engineering.

MERLN is internationally recognized for its innovation and leadership in biomaterials, tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, and translational research.
 
Curious?
Are you interested in this exciting position but still have questions? Feel free to contact Lorenzo Moroni at l.moroni@maastrichtuniversity.nl or Martijn van Griensven at m.vangriensven@maastrichtuniversity.nl for more information. 

Applying?
Or are you already convinced and ready to become our new Lab Technician? Apply now, no later than 28 September 2025, for this position. 

Please attach a cover letter describing your motivation and qualifications, an up-to-date CV and contact details for at least two professional references. 

The vacancy is open for internal and external candidates. In case of equal qualifications, internal candidates will be prioritized.

Maastricht University is committed to promoting and nurturing a diverse and inclusive community. We believe that diversity in our staff and student population contributes to the quality of research and education at UM, and strive to enable this through inclusive policies and innovative projects led by teams of staff and students. We encourage you to apply for this position.