Junior embryologist / IVF technician Equine Sciences

In this position, you will work as junior embryologist / IVF technician within the Reproduction Team of Utrecht University’s Equine Clinic and conduct research within the Reproductive Genetics team.

Your job

Your main tasks will consist of supporting a vibrant clinical programme in all activities related to in vitro production and preservation of horse embryos (oocyte recovery, oocyte maturation, sperm preparation and intracytoplasmic sperm injection, embryo culture, embryo micromanipulation and cryopreservation, and thawing of embryos for transfer to recipient mares and relative administrative tasks). You will also contribute to the development of a non-invasive PGT system for genetic selection and screening of equine embryos. As part of the clinical team, you will be part of a 1-in-4 rota to cover embryo thawing on weekends and public holidays during the horse breeding season (March – August).

Besides the clinical work, you will also support teaching and research activities of the team. The applied and basic research performed by the Reproduction Team aims to understand and develop solutions to infertility in animals and people.

Your qualities

• You hold a HLO (hoger laboratorium onderwijs) degree or have a biological or biomedical background.
• You have a proven interest in assisted reproductive technologies and preimplantation genetic testing.
• You have affinity for developmental biology, molecular biology, and genetics, with demonstrated skills in biomolecular, biochemical, and cell/tissue culture techniques.
• You are an excellent team player, a fast learner, and thrive in a multidisciplinary environment.
• You are enthusiastic, creative, and able to communicate effectively, promote collaboration, and think independently.
• You are knowledgeable in your field and committed to staying up to date with recent advances in the literature.
• You are proficient in written and spoken English.

Our offer

• A position for one year with the possibility to extend;
• a working week of 38 hours and a gross monthly salary between €3,029 and €3,623 (salary scale 6 or 7 under the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities (CAO NU));
• 8% holiday pay and 8.3% year-end bonus;
• a pension scheme, partially paid parental leave and flexible terms of employment based on the CAO NU.

In addition to the terms of employment laid down in the CAO NU, Utrecht University also offers a range of its own schemes for employees. This includes arrangements for professional development, various types of leave, and options for sports and cultural activities. You can also tailor your employment conditions through our Terms of Employment Options Model. In this way, we encourage you to keep investing in your personal and professional development. For more information, please visit Working at Utrecht University.

About us

A better future for everyone. This ambition motivates our scientists in executing their leading research and inspiring teaching. At Utrecht University, the various disciplines collaborate intensively towards major strategic themes. Our focus is on Dynamics of Youth, Institutions for Open Societies, Life Sciences and Pathways to Sustainability. Sharing science, shaping tomorrow.

At the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine we train the veterinarians and researchers of the future, provide care for animals and conduct leading and societal relevant research. That is what we are good at. We see that the health and welfare of animals, humans and the environment are interconnected. By sharing our knowledge and working together, we make positive impact, both nationally and internationally. Our 1,500 students and 950 staff members inspire and strengthen each other. Our engagement connects us. The drive to, from an integral perspective, make the world a better place.

At the Department of Clinical Sciences, you will work alongside approximately 150 veterinarians and a similar number of support staff. Approximately two-thirds of the veterinarians are specialists in various disciplines; the remaining one-third consists of interns, residents and PhD candidates. Together we are responsible for the education of veterinary students, provision of clinical services to horses and companion animals, and both clinical and more fundamental research in the areas of regenerative medicine, locomotion, genetics and reproduction.

More information

For more information, contact Marta de Ruijter-Villani at m.villani@uu.nl or Anthony Claes at a.claes@uu.nl.

Candidates for this vacancy will be recruited by Utrecht University.

Apply now

As Utrecht University, we want to be a home for everyone. We value staff with diverse backgrounds, perspectives and identities, including cultural, religious or ethnic background, gender, sexual orientation, disability or age. We strive to create a safe and inclusive environment in which everyone can flourish and contribute.

Knowledge security screening can be part of the selection procedures of academic staff. We do this, among other things, to prevent the unwanted transfer of sensitive knowledge and technology.

To apply, please send your curriculum vitae, including a letter of motivation, via the ‘apply now’ button.

The application deadline is 27 February 2026.