Junior research specialist (role in the project: Technician)

Junior research specialist (role in the project: Technician)

Recruitment for the project “RNA and Cell Biology Platform for Research and Innovation in Medicine (RACE-PRIME)” (grant agreement no. FENG.02.01-IP.05-T003/23) implemented within the framework of the International Research Agendas funded by the European Funds for Smart Economy programme, for the Junior research specialist to carry out research work in the RNA area under the direction of Prof. Gracjan Michlewski, head of the Laboratory of RNA-Protein Interactions - Dioscuri Centre in collaboration with Dr. Ewelina Małecka (Laboratory of Single-Molecule Biophysics) at the International Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology in Warsaw (IIMCB).

The main objective of RACE-PRIME is to transform the IIMCB into a world-class center of excellence in RNA and cell biology. The premise of RACE-PRIME is the translational use of the results of basic research, e.g. to develop the premise of new therapies, and diagnostic methods, discover new therapeutic objectives or identify molecules with desirable properties so that they can be developed into medications.

 

Description of the project area: 

This project investigates "jumbo phages"—viruses with enormous, enigmatic genomes where over 70% of genes are of unknown function. We are targeting a critical and poorly understood aspect of their biology: the non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) they use to regulate their hosts.

 

Your work will involve identifying novel ncRNAs within the transcriptomes of Escherichia jumbo phages—molecules that are invisible to standard genome analysis. You will then determine their function by answering key questions: What proteins do these ncRNAs bind? How do they interact with host mRNAs to control gene expression? To visualize these interactions directly, you will use advanced single-molecule microscopy to watch these ncRNA complexes form in real time.

 

Ultimately, this research will provide a new angle on how these mysterious viruses operate.

 

Job description:

 

As part of this project you will:

• Cultivate bacteriophages and perform infection experiments.
• Prepare samples for RNA sequencing and other biochemical tests.
• Conduct assays using advanced techniques, including single-molecule microscopy.
• Analyze complex datasets to drive discovery.

What you will gain:

• Expertise in phage biology, molecular genetics, and microbiology.
• Valuable skills in RNA sequencing, bioinformatics, and advanced microscopy.
• Experience in a project focused on novel discovery from start to finish.

Requirements:

1. MSc degree in biological sciences or a related field. 
2. Strong knowledge of molecular biology and microbiology principles. 
3. Basic hands-on experience in microbiology (bacterial and/or phage handling) and molecular biology lab techniques.
4. Independence, commitment, initiative, and strong teamwork skills. 
5. Proficiency in spoken and written English. 

Selection criteria:

1. Education, expertise, and achievements: educational background, technical skills, relevant experience, and specialized knowledge in line with the position's requirements; publications, awards, grants, and participation in national and international conferences and training.
2. Analytical thinking and problem-solving: assessment of the candidate's ability to analyze complex problems, identify priorities, design methodologies, and anticipate and plan for potential challenges.
3. Soft skills: proficiency in spoken and written English, strong communication skills, teamwork ability, and compatibility with the team dynamic. The alignment of personal development goals with the project's objectives is also key.

Candidates will be selected through an open competition, in accordance with the principles set out in the European Charter for Researchers and the Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers, which are part of the HR Excellence in Research strategy. https://shorturl.at/fjot2

We offer:

1. Full-time employment contract, initially for 6 months with the possibility of extension till the end of the project.
2. Competitive salary in the amount of 6000 PLN gross/month.
3. Attractive benefits package including subsidization for MultiSport card and medical insurance.
4. Full technical, administrative, and organizational support in Polish and English from professional staff.
5. Opportunity to participate in courses, conferences, scientific training, and substantive support from colleagues.
6. Opportunity to do a PhD in an extramural form.

Applications can be submitted until August 17^th, 2025. The proposed start date of employment is October 1^st, 2025, or later.

How to apply:

1. Please send your applications via link: e-recruiter
2. Applications should be submitted in English.
3. The application should include
   • CV,
   • list of achievements,
   • a motivation letter describing key scientific achievements,
   • contact details (email and phone number) of at least two potential referees, including your direct supervisor.
4. Please include the following statement in your CV: "I hereby give consent for my personal data included in the application documents to be processed by the International Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology in Warsaw, ul. Ks. Trojdena 4, 02-109 Warsaw, for the purpose of carrying out the recruitment process." Full information is available at https://bit.ly/3ObTUdJ
5. Procedure for reporting irregularities, taking follow-up actions, and protecting whistleblowers: https://shorturl.at/u2mww

The competition may be extended until a candidate meeting all requirements is found.