Postdoctoral Researcher in the Laboratory of Protein Metabolism

Postdoctoral Researcher in the Laboratory of Protein Metabolism

 

The Laboratory of Protein Metabolism (website) at the International Institute for Molecular and Cell Biology (IIMCB), Warsaw, led by Prof. Wojciech Pokrzywa, is seeking a highly motivated, creative, and independent Postdoctoral Researcher to join our team.

 

You will join the project entitled “Targeting Proteinopathies: Understanding and Mitigating the Effects of Pathogenic Mutations in Cullin-RING Ubiquitin Ligase Receptor” carried out as the Opus grant (2024/53/B/NZ3/02882) of the National Science Centre, Poland led by Prof. Wojciech Pokrzywa.

 

About the project:

Our research aims to uncover how ubiquitin signalling regulates protein stability and cellular homeostasis, with a particular focus on mechanisms disrupted in rare genetic diseases. By studying how specific mutations alter substrate recognition and degradation pathways, we seek to understand the molecular basis of protein accumulation and its pathological consequences. The Postdoctoral Researcher will focus on the cellular and biochemical aspects of these mechanisms, including analyses of patient-derived cell models carrying disease-associated mutations. The work will combine molecular biology, advanced microscopy, proteomics, and functional assays to characterise how ubiquitin-dependent regulation affects cell physiology. In addition, the position offers opportunities to explore side projects related to proteostasis and protein quality control, encouraging scientific creativity and cross-disciplinary collaboration in a dynamic, discovery-driven environment.

Key responsibilities:

· Design and conduct experiments in molecular biology, biochemistry, and cellular assays related to ubiquitin signaling and protein degradation.

· Utilize mass spectrometry, proteomics approaches, and imaging techniques for protein interaction studies.

· Actively contribute to project development, including proposing and testing novel research hypotheses.

· Prepare manuscripts, present results at scientific meetings, and contribute to funding applications.

· Collaborate with team members and mentor junior researchers in the lab.

Candidate profile:

We are looking for a candidate with strong scientific curiosity, problem-solving skills, and the ability to drive research independently while actively engaging with the scientific community. The ideal candidate should demonstrate an eagerness to explore new areas within ubiquitin signaling and be proactive in developing research directions aligned with the project's goals.

Requirements:

· Ph.D. in Biology, Biotechnology, Genetics, Biochemistry, Biophysics, or a related field.

· Fulfillment of formal criteria outlined in paragraph 2, point 2.1.1 of the NCN regulations (link).

· Strong publication record, demonstrating expertise relevant to the project.

· Experience in molecular biology and biochemical techniques.

· Expertise in cell cultures or model organisms is highly advantageous.

· Familiarity with computational approaches for data analysis is a plus.

· Ability to design and execute experiments independently and interpret results critically.

· Proactive approach, strong analytical skills, and a collaborative attitude.

· Excellent communication skills in English, both written and oral.

What we offer:

· Full-time employment contract (4 years), initially for 6 months, with the possibility of extension until the end of the project.

· Competitive salary of approximately 8700 PLN gross/month.

· A dynamic and supportive research environment within an internationally recognized institute.

· Professional development opportunities, including:

o Participation in courses, scientific seminars, and international conferences.

o Funding for postdoctoral training and professional courses.

o Mentorship and assistance in applying for independent research grants (e.g., NCN).

Selection criteria:

Applications will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

1. Education and formal qualifications.
2. Technical expertise and relevance of experience to the project.
3. Scientific achievements (e.g., publications, awards, grants, international collaborations).
4. Proficiency in English (written and spoken).
5. Soft skills, including:

o Clarity and impact of motivation letter.

o Communication and teamwork abilities.

o Organizational and time-management skills.

o Compatibility with the research group’s goals and vision.

Deadline for applications is 3^rd of November, 2025.

 

How to apply:

• Apply via recruitment system: erecruiter
• If you have  any enquiries about the recruitment process or the project, please send your request to  wpokrzywa@iimcb.gov.pl
• Please include the following statement in your email: “I hereby agree to the processing
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