Stem Cell Culture Platform Manager for the Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Stem Cell Biology

Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences
University of Copenhagen

We are seeking a highly motivated and self-starting Cell Culture Specialist.

About us
The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Stem Cell Biology – DanStem has been established as a result of a series of international recruitments coupled with internationally recognized research groups focused on insulin producing beta cells and cancer research already located at the University of Copenhagen. DanStem addresses basic research questions in stem cell and developmental biology and has activities focused on the translation of promising basic research results into new strategies and targets for the development of new therapies for cancer and chronic diseases such as diabetes and liver failure. Find more information about the Center at https://danstem.ku.dk/.

Job description
The Cell Culture Specialist will manage the Stem Cell Culture Platform (https://danstem.ku.dk/platforms/stem-cell-culture/) at DanStem, a self-contained shared-resource facility dedicated for the maintenance of and experimentation with mouse and human stem cells. Specific responsibilities include:

• Work closely with DanStem scientists, platform specialists, laboratory manager and management to maintain and develop the cell culture laboratory facility and services
• Introduce, maintain and enforce clear operating guidelines and safety in GMO1 and GMO2 cell culture labs
• Establish and coordinate efforts for in-house production of important cytokines and necessary QC strategies to ensure their efficacy and batch quality.
• Support users in design of modern cell modification technologies (e.g. CRISPR or similar technologies) and support larger scale activities of individual research groups.
• Inform on and support stem cell culture activities for facility users, e.g., introduction to basic cell culture techniques, sterile working, troubleshooting, safety considerations.
• Aliquoting and preparing reagents, testing for mycoplasma, karyotyping, maintaining equipment, monitoring and refilling stocks, defrosting freezers, and resolving conflicts between users
• Order materials, equipment and furniture, negotiate and follow-up with vendors and service providers, and handle invoices
• Establish new service agreements, annual service of equipment, and equipment upgrades
• Organize and maintain cell cryostorage and backup storage system
• Evaluate operations and coordinate upgrades and repairs and follow-up, including communication with the building operations department and assessment of proposed repairs
• Respond to alarms, providing assistance by phone or in person
• Substitute for the DanStem Laboratory Manager in case of holidays or illness

Qualifications
Candidates are expected to have at least a Master’s degree in natural or health sciences. A PhD degree is advantageous, but a proven record of similar job profile is equally qualifying. In addition, we are seeking a candidate who has experience in embryonic stem cell and/or iPS cell culture, genetic manipulations and differentiations, and

• Has a scientific background in developmental or stem cell biology, experience with embryonic stem cells and/or organoid culture as well as working in GMO1/2 laboratories
• Has demonstrated success working in research service facilities; managerial experience in this or another type of organization is a strong advantage
• May have had exposure to assay technologies like fluorescence microscopy, flow cytometry or potentially histo-chemistry
• Has experience in project management and a strong ability to prioritize and handle multiple tasks and frequent deadlines
• Is proactive, innovative, analytical, goal- and solution-oriented while enjoying new challenges
• Develops good relations in a multi-cultural research environment, and excellent oral and written communication skills in English
• Works successfully with persons from a variety of organizations and professional levels and in tight collaboration with technology platforms at DanStem and CPR

For further information about the position, please contact Head of Laboratory and Platforms Malte Paulsen, malte.paulsen@sund.ku.dk

Employment conditions
The position as Cell Culture Specialist (senior consultant) is a full-time (37 hours), permanent position. The employment can begin any time from November 2020 or upon agreement with the chosen candidate. The place of work is at DanStem, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, Copenhagen.

The position, at the University of Copenhagen, will be in accordance with the provisions of the collective agreement between the Danish Government and AC (the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations). To the salary is added a monthly contribution to a pension fund according to the collective agreement, and a supplement can be negotiated, depending on the candidate’s experiences and qualifications.

We offer a stimulating, multifaceted and international environment of high scientific and societal impact; the possibility for continued education and training; collaborative and creative colleagues in the research teams and scientific service platforms; and the opportunity to work with other departments and centers at the University and greater community.

Application
Send your application electronically by clicking “Apply online” below.

The application must include the following documents/attachments:

1. Motivated letter of application (max 1 page)
2. Curriculum vitae incl. education, experience, previous employments, language skills and other relevant skills
3. Certified copy of diplomas/degree certificate(s)
4. Letter of recommendation and/or contact details of referees

Application deadline: 25 October 2020

The University of Copenhagen wishes to reflect the diversity of society and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background.