Research Engineer

The Tumor Immunotherapy and Microenvironment (TIME) group, led by Dr. Bassam Janji, operates within the Department of Cancer Research at the Luxembourg Institute of Health (LIH). The group is at the forefront of translational cancer research, with a strategic focus on discovering druggable gene targets and key signaling pathways in the tumor microenvironment. Our aim is to reprogram immunologically “cold” tumors into “hot” tumors to enhance responses to immunotherapy.

Key Accountabilities

As a Research Engineer, you will play a key role in supporting ongoing research activities within the group. Your responsibilities will include:

• Conducting wet lab experiments in cell and molecular biology, radiation biology, biochemistry, and tumor biology;
• Supporting in vitro (2D and 3D cell cultures) and in vivo (mouse) experiments;
• Performing irradiation with X Ray (Centre Baclesse – Luxembourg) and High-LET particles (CNAO – Italy);
• Performing cell survival analysis, DNA double-strand break analysis, radiosensitization, analysis of cell cycle response and gene expression analysis;
• Applying immunostaining, microscopy (e.g., confocal), western blotting, qPCR, and flow cytometry;
• Manage and analyze large-scale RNA-seq datasets; proficiency in bioinformatics and R is a strong asset;
• Training and mentoring junior staff and trainees;
• Participating in lab meetings and scientific discussions;
• Contributing to the development and implementation of novel experimental techniques;
• Supporting general lab organization and maintenance;
• Writing scientific reports and presentations for internal and external dissemination;
• Participating in bibliographic research and applying findings to optimize lab protocols.

Key Skills, Experiences and Qualifications

Education & Experience:

• Master’s degree in biology, cancer biology, or a closely related field. Candidates with a Bachelor's and strong relevant experience will also be considered;
• Minimum 2 years of hands-on experience in a cancer biology or related research environment.

Technical Skills:

• Knowledge of tumor biology and radiotherapy;
• Proficiency in molecular and cellular biology techniques;
• Knowledge in radiation therapy, cell survival and DNA double-strand break techniques;
• Experience with in vivo mouse models (FELASA or equivalent certification);
• Ability to handle and analyze large-scale omics data;
• Experience with gene cloning.

Soft Skills:

• Strong sense of initiative, rigor, and motivation;
• Excellent organizational and prioritization skills;
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team;
• Excellent problem-solving and critical thinking abilities;
• Fluent in English (spoken and written); knowledge of another EU language is an asset;
• Willingness to adapt working hours to project needs and travel within the EU.

Applications including a motivation letter and a CV should be sent via the LIH website before the 23 May 2025.

Gender Equality

The LIH is an equal opportunities employer.  We are fully committed to removing any discriminatory barrier related to gender, and not only, in recruitment and career progression of our staff.

The LIH is attentive to gender representation among its leadership staff and aims to eliminate obstacles to recruitment and promotion of female leaders and their career development.