Head of Analytical Laboratories/Senior MC-ICP-MS Specialist in Isotope Geochemistry

The Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research (NIOZ) department for Ocean Systems (OCS) is looking for a Head of the Analytical Laboratories / Specialist in Isotope Geochemistry. This leadership role requires a hands-on scientist with experience in analyses of (metal/inorganic) stable isotopes and their application in marine sciences. The candidate preferably possesses proven expertise in the operation and method development of MC-ICP-MS, combining laboratory leadership with a strong technical component as the primary operator of our MC-ICP-MS (Thermo Scientific Neptune Plus).

The laboratories are equipped with for instance state-of-the-art clean lab facilities, a laser ablation system, SF-ICP-MS, Q-ICP-MS and MC-ICP-MS (Neptune Plus). The role presents a unique opportunity to lead within a diverse research environment, where you can contribute to existing research and initiate new lines of research. Potential research lines using the MC-ICP-MS include, but are not limited to, the reconstruction of past pCO2 levels using B-isotopes, the reconstruction of paleo redox conditions using Mo and U isotopes, biomineralization using Mg isotopes, and sediment dating using U/Th, and sea water nutrient cycling using Fe and Zn isotopes.

THE INSTITUTE

NWO-NIOZ Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research is the national oceanographic research institute. The mission of NIOZ is to perform academically excellent multidisciplinary fundamental and frontier-applied marine research addressing important scientific and societal questions pertinent to the functioning of oceans and seas. NIOZ also serves as national marine research facilitator (NMF) for the Netherlands scientific community, and stimulates and supports national and international marine research, marine education programs and marine policy development.

THE DEPARTMENT

In the department of Ocean Systems (OCS) we study the role of the ocean in a changing climate, from the equator to the poles, from the continental shelf to the deep ocean and from the past to the present. The ocean is Earth’s largest reservoir of CO2 and heat and therefore ocean circulation, mixing, biogeochemical cycling and other processes strongly impact global climate. In turn, the ocean is changing rapidly because of (human) stressors, creating complex feedback loops. Furthermore, seafloor sediments have recorded past changes in conditions on land and in the ocean, in the form of biological residues or physical and chemical signals, which allow us to reconstruct feedback between oceanic processes and (past) climate. A key aspect of research at OCS are sea-going expeditions during which data and samples are collected from the water column and the seafloor. The samples are analyzed in on-board and onshore laboratories, and we have collected a large amount of information and samples over the past decades. Our technical and scientific staff is international and diverse, comprising approximately 50 members, including PhD students, postdocs, and Master's students from around the world.

THE VACANCY

As Head of Laboratory, you will be responsible for daily operations in the OCS laboratories and serve as the primary operator and technical lead for the MC-ICP-MS. You will be responsible for method development, instrument maintenance, user support, and data quality assurance related to the MC-ICP-MS, as well as contributing to the development of new techniques. In addition, you will serve as a liaison between the scientists and the laboratory operations when needed.

The OCS department hosts:

• state-of-the-art laboratories focusing on both sea water and sediment chemistry, including electrochemical and spectrophotometric methods.

• (ICP) mass spectrometers (quadrupole and sector field single and multi-collector).

• sample preparation of sediments, carbonates, sea/pore water and filters, using techniques such as e.g. laser ablation, matrix removal/purification, and total digestion.

• clean laboratory facilities for sample preparation and experiments (e.g., controlled growth).

Developing new methods and the improvement of existing methods to address fundamental marine science questions is a key focus of our laboratory Beyond the day-to-day operations of the laboratory you will also have the opportunity to set-up your own line of research with a marine isotope geochemistry focus. The current analytical team at OCS, which you would lead, consists of seven highly skilled research technicians.

NIOZ is located on the beautiful island of Texel, offering a unique combination of nature, open space, and outdoor activities alongside excellent local amenities. The island provides a wide range of facilities, including shops, sports centres, primary and secondary schools, and a lively tourist community. Texel is well connected to the mainland via a frequent ferry service operating every 30 to 60 minutes, with crossings taking approximately 20 minutes. NIOZ is conveniently situated next to the ferry terminal, just a 5-minute walk away.

THE CANDIDATE

• You have a PhD degree in a relevant research field (chemistry, earth sciences, biology).

• You have hands-on experience operating and maintaining MC-ICP-MS instruments (preferably Thermo Neptune Plus), including method development, troubleshooting, and data quality control.

• You enjoy working at the interface of laboratory operations and research and take pride in enabling high-quality isotope analyses.

• You have experience or interest in a very broad range of topics associated to ocean sciences.

• You have strong organizing skills with flexibility to work in dynamic projects.

• You have an affinity for taking responsibility and managing people and tasks.

• You are dedicated to contributing to the diverse, safe and healthy working culture at NIOZ.

NIOZ wants to be a transparent institute with a healthy working climate and an inclusive culture, where people from diverse backgrounds and genders bring their talents and further develop these talents. We aim for inclusive decision-making processes and expect our leadership to demonstrate visible commitment, awareness of bias, and cultural intelligence.

CONDITIONS

• Employment of this full-time position at Royal NIOZ is by NWO-I for a duration of 1 year with prospects of a permanent position.

• Salary compliant with CAO-WVOI (Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Research Institutes) scale 11 or 12, depending on relevant experience.

• The freedom to fulfil your role and space and opportunities for your personal (talent) development with the help of the NIOZ Academy.

• 338 annualized holiday hours for a full-time 40-hour work week.

• Pension scheme via ABP, 8% holiday allowance and a year-end bonus of 8.33%.

• 2nd class public transportation travel is reimbursed 100%.

• Employment benefits plan to exchange a portion of your salary for days off or vice versa or can be used to purchase a bicycle with tax benefits.

• NIOZ offers relocation expenses for employees and support with finding accommodation.

MORE INFORMATION

Application available via www.workingat.nioz.nl. For additional information about this vacancy, please contact Gert-Jan Reichart (Head of OCS Department). For additional information about the procedure, please send an e-mail to working@nioz.nl

Closing date for this vacancy will be on the 15th of August 2026.