ProQR Therapeutics is a biotechnology company listed on NASDAQ with offices in Leiden, the Netherlands and Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA. ProQR is focused on the development of life changing RNA therapies to meet the unmet need of individuals and families with common and rare diseases. A team of 150+ enthusiastic ProQRians from all walks of life and more than 30 different nationalities is up to this challenge. We have the passion and commitment to make a difference in the lives of the communities we serve. Our proprietary Axiomer® RNA editing technology platform enables the editing of specific single nucleotides in RNA using the cells own editing machinery. Axiomer® RNA editing technology harnesses ADAR (Adenosine Deaminase Acting on RNA), which is machinery present in all human cells to repair G-to-A mutations, modulate protein, and enable protective mutation functions. Axiomer could potentially yield a new class of innovative medicines and treat currently untreatable diseases.

Our R&D department is currently looking for a (Sr) Technician, Organic Chemistry (Full-time) to join our team in Leiden.

We are looking for candidates with a passion for oligonucleotide research and for working in a chemical laboratory. The (Sr) Technician, Organic Chemistry will assist in synthesizing oligonucleotide-ligand conjugates and new building blocks. The (Sr) Technician, Organic Chemistry will interact closely with our molecular biology-driven teams and in-house CMC department.

The Role:

The (Sr) Technician, Organic Chemistry will support the in-house lab activities of the Chemistry synthesis team, which is part of the R&D Design & Delivery project team. The candidate will work closely with other (Sr) Technician/ (Sr) Scientists in an interdisciplinary team to help with various activities related to synthesizing oligonucleotide-ligand conjugates and new building blocks, which include:

• Synthesis of conjugates and new building blocks, and downstream processes to provide the research material
• Analysis of research material (HPLC, UV-Vis, and basic knowledge of mass spectrometry)
• Preparation of technical protocols and reports
• Support the preparation, or revision, of standard operating procedures (SOPs)
• Support general lab activities such as equipment maintenance and inventory management

Required qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in organic chemistry (BASc (HLO), BSc), biochemistry, chemical biology, biopharmaceutical sciences, analytical chemistry, or related scientific discipline with 2-5 years of relevant work experience (preferably in industry).
• Strong laboratory skills and a high degree of attention to detail.
• Good understanding of, and hands-on experience with modification of large biomolecules, conjugation chemistry, and analytical techniques such as HPLC and UV-Vis spectroscopy.
• Basic knowledge of mass spectrometry techniques and LCMS.
• Proficient in spoken and written English.
• A responsible person with a proactive attitude who can work independently.
• Knowledge of oligonucleotide (or peptide) manufacturing (synthesis, purification and/or analysis) is a plus.

Competencies that are required for making the difference

• Analytical and accurate
• Proactive and flexible attitude
• Team player
• Autonomous and coachable
• Ability to work under pressure
• Creative thinker
• A nice person

ProQR as an employer

As an employer, we are a true believer of the value of a workforce in which people from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to develop themselves, personally and professionally. We believe that happy and energized people, working well together in an environment in which they thrive, will do phenomenal and awesome things.

We are committed to ensuring that no employee, candidate or job applicant receives less favorable treatment on the grounds of race, age, disability, pregnancy, religion, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, marriage or civil partnership status. At ProQR we want to create an inclusive culture where everyone can be valued for who they are and in which individual differences and contributions in all forms are recognized and valued.

We offer an exciting and innovative working environment in a very committed organization, with the following benefits:

• A competitive salary
• 8% holiday allowance
• 30 vacation days
• An annual performance bonus
• Stock options
• A premium-free pension plan
• A commuting allowance
• A subsidized staff restaurant
• Unlimited (un)healthy snacks and drinks
• Employee events (boot camp, Rebel Café and other social events)

Do you think you can contribute in achieving our mission? If so, we’re looking forward to receiving your application by filling out our application form.

You can contact Silvia Catellani via recruitment@proqr.com if you have any questions.