Research Scientist Organic Analysis

Do you want to use your analytical and instrumental expertise and your drive for innovation to help build a future worth looking forward to?

VITO is the science-to-technology partner for companies, governments and society in the sustainability transition. We focus our research activities on three domains where we aim to create maximum impact in Flanders, Europe and worldwide: a regenerative economy, a healthy living environment and resilient ecosystems.

Within the MatCh unit (Materials & Chemistry), we investigate the use of non-fossil, mineral and circular feedstocks to make industry more sustainable and to enable new value chains. In addition, existing industrial processes are rethought to improve cost, energy and material efficiency. Advanced material synthesis, separation technologies, chemistry, electrochemistry and bioprocess technology form our key focus areas. We strongly believe that, alongside technological innovation, broader societal innovation among policymakers and industry is essential for this transition.

In line with this vision, VITO is looking for a Research Scientist Organic Analysis.

The VITO chemical characterization laboratory specializes in organic and inorganic analyses and processes more than 150 projects annually. The laboratory rarely performs standard measurements; the majority of its work is tailor-made and specifically adapted to the customer’s questions and needs. Clients typically approach the lab with a concrete problem or question rather than a predefined analytical technique. The analytical team then proposes a well-considered approach and supports the development of solutions. The laboratory is equipped with a wide range of technologies, from basic to highly advanced instrumentation. Its clients are active in diverse sectors such as chemicals, food and pharmaceuticals. Complex analytical challenges find their answers at the VITO laboratory.

In addition, as a reference laboratory, VITO is responsible within Flanders for defining how environmental measurements (e.g. water, soil, air) should be performed within a European regulatory context. To this end, VITO works closely with the Flemish government and commercial environmental laboratories to embed innovation and sustainability at the core of daily environmental monitoring. This includes tracking and capturing analytical developments, implementing them in the laboratory together with a team of specialized analysts, and translating them into reference measurement methods (Flemish compendia, WAC) linked to the legal regulatory framework.

Responsibilities

• You are responsible for the full trajectory of demanding chemical analyses, from developing measurement and analysis protocols to quality assurance, interpretation and reporting of results. In addition, you prepare project proposals and plan, coordinate and carry out scientific research projects.

• You have a strong hands-on profile and readily take ownership of the operational aspects of multiple projects simultaneously. Thanks to your commitment, perseverance and pragmatic approach, you ensure the continuity of daily project operations, even under high workload, tight deadlines and complex technical challenges.

• During customer interactions, you take on an expert role, actively thinking along with the client’s challenges and proposing innovative solutions that fit within available time, budget and technical constraints.

• You have extensive hands-on experience with a broad range of analytical techniques and instrumentation. In-depth expertise in LC-MS/MS is essential. Thanks to your strong technical background, you act as a point of contact for practical questions and troubleshooting. Knowledge of GC, HRMS and NTA is a clear asset.

• Initially, you divide your time between laboratory work and desk-based tasks and work closely with analysts responsible for day-to-day execution. Coaching and mentoring team members form an important part of your role.

• You actively contribute to the development of industrial customer relationships and support the overall functioning of the laboratory. You take responsibility within the quality system and contribute to improvement actions in a laboratory environment accredited according to ISO 17025.

• A PhD in Analytical Chemistry, Environmental Sciences, or a related field

• Demonstrated experience and extensive knowledge in the development, validation and application of organic analytical techniques

• Strong communication skills; proficiency in Dutch is an advantage for interaction with and reporting to the Flemish Government, while proficiency in English is essential to operate smoothly within (inter)national networks

• Excellent academic writing, organizational and time-management skills

• A cooperative mindset with strong interpersonal skills, able to set priorities and manage multiple objectives in a team environment

• Strong project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects in parallel; you collaborate effectively with researchers and analysts, maintain oversight and make adjustments as needed to successfully handle challenging deadlines and technical complexity

• Stress-resistant and capable of managing multiple projects simultaneously

• A flexible attitude towards rapid changes in project scope and timing

• Knowledge of programming and data management is a plus

• Able to work independently while aligning with team objectives and deadlines

• A true team player, working in collaboration with colleagues

Our offer

• A competitive salary with a range of benefits, including allowances, insurance and a modular package of vacation days

• Innovation is our core asset; therefore, we naturally offer our employees opportunities for additional training and to stay up to date in their field of expertise

• The opportunity to be part of an organization with an international reputation, known for its advanced technological research and scientific consultancy

• The chance to actively contribute to sustainable developments at local, national and global levels