What you will be doing

Are you practically minded, enjoy working in a laboratory, and keen to learn new biological techniques? The Department of Aquatic Ecology at the Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW) is looking for a motivated and independent Research Assistant to support biological analyses and sample processing.

Aquatic ecosystems are under pressure from environmental change, pollution and biodiversity loss. Our research investigates how aquatic ecosystems function, how organisms interact with their environment, and how these systems respond to changing conditions. Laboratory analyses and the careful processing of biological samples are essential to this work.

As a Research Assistant, you will support ongoing research by processing biological samples and carrying out laboratory analyses. Depending on the research needs, your tasks may include preparing and organising samples, conducting biological measurements and analyses, documenting results, and maintaining accurate records of laboratory procedures and data.

We are particularly interested in candidates with an affinity for aquatic invertebrates and their identification or analysis. You will have the opportunity to learn and apply new techniques, contribute to a variety of research activities, and support researchers in generating reliable, high-quality data.

This is a hands-on position for someone who takes initiative, plans their work effectively and can operate independently in a laboratory setting. You will receive guidance from colleagues when needed, but we are looking for someone who can quickly familiarise themselves with new protocols, pick up unfamiliar techniques and analyses, and take responsibility for completing tasks accurately and efficiently.

The position is for 5 months at 1.0 FTE (38 hours per week), with a start date in December 2026.

What you will be contributing We are looking for a proactive, reliable and detail-oriented person who enjoys practical laboratory work and is motivated to contribute to ecological research. You have: • A relevant educational background in biology, aquatic ecology, environmental sciences, laboratory sciences or a related field, preferably at HBO or MSc level. • Practical laboratory experience and an interest in biological sample processing and analysis. Experience with aquatic organisms, particularly invertebrates, or microscopic identification is an advantage. • The ability to work independently, take initiative and organise your own tasks, while recognising when consultation or support is needed. • A strong capacity to learn new techniques quickly, follow protocols carefully and adapt to different analytical methods. • An accurate and structured approach to sample handling, laboratory procedures, data recording and quality control. • Good communication skills and the ability to work constructively with researchers and research support staff in an international scientific environment.

You do not need to be an expert in every technique from the start. We particularly value curiosity, a practical mindset, a willingness to learn and the ability to become proficient in new methods within a short period.

What do we offer? We offer a practical and varied position within the Department of Aquatic Ecology at NIOO-KNAW, a leading ecological research institute in the Netherlands. You will contribute directly to ongoing scientific research and work alongside experienced researchers and laboratory support staff.

The department offers a broad range of aquatic ecology expertise and laboratory facilities, including biological identification, water and sediment analyses, and molecular approaches to aquatic biodiversity research. This provides an engaging environment in which to develop your laboratory skills and gain experience with biological analyses.

The appointment is for 5 months at 1.0 FTE, starting in December 2026. Salary and other employment conditions are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities/Academy at scale 6 or 7 depending on qualifications and experience.

Your workplace The Department of Aquatic Ecology at NIOO-KNAW investigates the functioning of aquatic ecosystems and their responses to environmental change. Its research combines laboratory experiments, field studies and modelling to understand ecological processes, biodiversity and interactions between organisms and their environment.

The department's research support team provides essential expertise in laboratory and field methods, including the identification of aquatic invertebrates and plankton, water chemistry, elemental analysis and visual biodiversity assessment.

You will work in a collaborative research environment where reliable laboratory work and careful sample processing are central to high-quality ecological science.

More information For further information about the position, please contact:

Dr. Sven Teurlincx [email protected]

More information about NIOO-KNAW: https://nioo.knaw.nl/en

Application procedure To apply, please submit your CV, a motivation letter outlining your relevant experience and interest in the position, and the contact details of 2 referees.

About NIOO The Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO) is a national research institute of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW). At NIOO we perform ecological research on biodiversity, climate change and sustainable use of land and water. We stimulate ecological research in the Netherlands and share our ecological knowledge with society. Everyone in our organisation is passionate about contributing to a sustainable world from their own area of expertise.

Terms of employment and benefits • A salary of 3.202 to 4.159 gross per month based on a full-time position (salary scale 7, Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities/KNAW), depending on your qualifications and experience. • 29 vacation days per year based on a full-time position, with the option to increase this to 41 days by working two extra hours per week. • An 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% year-end bonus in addition to your salary. • Fully covered public transport costs for your commute through an NS Business Card. • A good pension scheme through ABP, with the KNAW covering approximately two thirds of the pension contribution. • The option to tailor part of your employment conditions through the Flexible Benefits Model (Keuzemodel Arbeidsvoorwaarden), for example by buying or selling leave days or receiving a contribution towards a bicycle or sports subscription. • Access to training, coaching, and career guidance through our Centre for Career and Development. • A working environment where we actively promote diversity, inclusion, and social safety.

For a full overview of our terms of employment and the other benefits of working at the KNAW, visit our Working at the KNAW page.

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