The division of Systems Pharmacology and Pharmacy of the Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research (LACDR) is looking for experienced research technician with expertise in analytical chemistry focusing primarily on quantification of drugs and therapeutic biomarkers.

The research within our division encompasses a combination of experimental studies and computational modeling, to develop novel strategies towards translational drug development approaches and personalized treatment strategies. Our current research lines focus on pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic studies tackling antimicrobial resistance, mycobacterial (tuberculosis) infections, antivirals, and central nervous system drug penetration, and subcellular drug partitioning and action.

The research technician will support the development, execution and training of novel bioanalytical LC/MS assays for drugs and biomarkers measured as part of preclinical in vitro and in vivo experimental models, or clinical samples. Many experiments provide small sample volumes, so sensitive quantification of drugs is essential. You will work in a team of technicians within the division and closely collaborate with scientific staff members and PhD candidates/postdocs, in a highly collaborative and collegial setting.

Responsibilities

• Responsible for developing, validating and executing LC-MS/MS methods for drugs and other biomolecules in collaboration with researchers in our division; 
• Contributing to planning of experimental designs of pharmacological experiments from a bioanalytical perspective; 
• Training of researchers and students in LC-MS/MS techniques;

• Development and maintenance of protocols and Standard Operating Procedures and developing and maintaining quality systems for the bioanalytical laboratory;
• Contribute to laboratory management tasks; 

• Contribute to research data management coordination in the division

Your profile

• Completed HLO training with a specialization in analytical chemistry;
• You are independent, flexible, pro-active, eager to learn and have strong organization skills;

• You are a team player (technician team, researchers, students) and have good communication skills, both in English and in Dutch;
• Experience with developing and validating HPLC and LC-MS/MS methods and performing assays for drugs, drug metabolites and other biomolecules;

• Experience with developing sample preparation procedures in different matrices (e.g., blood/plasma, tissue homogenate, cell culture material, microsomes, media/supernatant) is considered an advantage;
• Experience with setting up and maintaining quality systems in analytical chemistry is considered an advantage;
• Experience and affinity for research data management is an advantage;
• Knowledge of FDA/EMA guidelines for bioanalytical method development is considered an advantage;

• Experience with advanced cell culture models, molecular biology techniques, microscopy/imaging, and flow cytometry is considered an advantage.

Organization

The Faculty of Science at Leiden University is a world-class faculty where staff and students work together in a dynamic international environment. It is a faculty where personal and academic development are top priorities. Our people are committed to expand fundamental knowledge by curiosity and to look beyond the borders of their own discipline; their aim is to benefit science, and to make a contribution to addressing the major societal challenges of the future.

The research carried out at the Faculty of Science is very diverse, ranging from mathematics, information science, astronomy, physics, chemistry and bio-pharmaceutical sciences to biology and environmental sciences. The research activities are organized in eight institutes. These institutes offer eight bachelors’ and twelve master’s programmes. The faculty has grown strongly in recent years and now has more than 2,300 staff and over 5,000 students. We are located at the heart of Leiden’s Bio Science Park, one of Europe’s biggest science parks, where university and business life come together.

What we offer

Diversity

Leiden University is strongly committed to diversity within its community and especially welcomes applications from members of underrepresented groups. LACDR is a highly diverse institute, in culture, background, and gender. We stand for excellence in a caring Institute. We wish to reflect society in all aspects, as we believe that this improves the dynamics in our organization. Therefore, we support and understand the need for a work/life/family balance and consequent varying working hours and places. We believe that doing good science is fun, and goes hand in hand with a friendly culture. In the Netherlands, a maternity allowance is standard for 16 weeks. Child care is available at and near the Bio Science Park.

Application

For questions about this position please contact Dr. Rob van Wijk (r.c.van.wijk@lacdr.leidenuniv.nl).

Please include in your application:

• Curriculum vitae
• Letter of motivation
• Names and contact details of 2 references

The deadline for this position is September 11, 2026.